5 Mistakes That Keep Readers From Following Authors on Social Media
Social media is, hands down, one of the best ways to connect with new people all over the world. And yet, we still struggle with actually making those connections.
Why? Well, I tend to think that it’s because we have tried to make social media fit into marketing. That’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. We use social media to broadcast our marketing message when we actually need to use it as it was designed to be used: as a way for actual human beings to interact with each other.
Social media can be incredibly powerful. I’ve seen and experienced its power first hand. It’s amazing to meet people all over the world and connect with them in a genuine and authentic way.
But if you’ve had a bad experience with social media, chances are there are just a few things that you need to adjust to get everything back on track.
I’ve broken down the top five mistakes that I’ve seen authors make on social media that keep readers from engaging with you.
You’re trying to be everything to everyone.
I always tell authors, “If you’re trying to connect with everyone, you’ll connect with no one.” To be seen online and to make yourself stand out, you have to know exactly who you want to speak to and what they will respond to. If you’re too worried about leaving someone out, you’ll actually leave everyone out!
Instead, do this: Focus on one person - your Ideal Reader. It is a game changer - not just for creating social media posts that are effective and connect with the right people, but it gives you focus. And when you can focus on specific details, you’ll see a much stronger response.
Readers don’t know what they will “get” from you.
When a reader is considering following you, they are asking themselves, “What is in this for me? What will I gain or learn from them?” We need to remember that our social media presence is actually for our readers - they want to know WHY they should follow you.
Instead, do this: Make sure that you include what type of content you will be sharing right off the bat in your bio. When readers can clearly see what they will gain from you (entertainment, inspiration, information, etc.) it will give them all the more reason to follow you.
There’s nothing relatable in your posts.
You also have to let readers know more about you and what you have in common with them. Have you ever met someone and when you find out that you share something in common you have an instant bond with them? That’s what we are trying to establish on social media - and you can do that in your bio.
Put this into practice: Include keywords and hashtags in your bio. This will provide readers with connection points that they can identify with. And using hashtags can make you more searchable on Instagram and Twitter.
You’re only half in.
Consistency is key when it comes to social media. If readers see that you only post once every few months, they are going to pass you by.
You need to remember this: readers have no shortage of options. In fact, they are being bombarded with options. You can’t just casually post here and there and expect meaningful results from it.
Instead, do this: I strongly suggest that you post to social media at least once every single day - even weekends. When you show up, your readers will show up too!
You’re being too promotional.
When readers see that your social media profile is only full of posts talking about your book or urging people to buy it, they will immediately turn the other way.
Put yourself if their shoes - do you like to be constantly promoted and marketed to? My guess is no. But people do respond to content they can relate to, that is interesting to them or that answers a question they have.
Instead, do this: Focus on serving your Ideal Reader. This means giving them information, providing entertainment, sharing inspiration, etc. When you focus on that rather than try to get a sale out of them, you will see a good response.
Remember, social media connections are just the first step. When you can establish a strong and trusted relationship with readers on social media, they will want to know more about you and what you have to offer. This will drive them to your website to read your blog posts, which should in turn give them a good reason to sign up for your newsletter, which is where the magic happens!
If you want to go a step further and get all of the tools, resources, and help that you need to market your book, grow on social media, and sell more books - join The Author Circle membership! It’s only $27/per month!
