There are numerous ways authors can help one another to expand their audience, it just takes trying different methods that are beneficial to both parties

One of the most effective (and fun) ways to grow your audience as an author is by collaborating with other writers.

Cross-promotion not only helps you reach new readers but also builds meaningful relationships in the writing community. If planned and executed correctly, it can yield huge results for those involved.

Whether you’re a debut author or an experienced indie, here are the best ways to collaborate with other authors for mutual success.

1. Newsletter Swaps

One of the most popular cross-promotion strategies is the newsletter swap. You and another author feature each other’s books in your respective email newsletters. This is highly effective because newsletter subscribers tend to be more engaged and more likely to buy books.

Tips:

• Choose authors with similar or complementary genres.

• Keep the pitch brief and personal.

• Make sure the book you’re promoting has a solid cover, blurb, and reviews.

What is a newsletter swap?

This is when you collaborate with another author with a like-minded audience. You exchange an eye-catching image of your book or newsletter (whatever you want to promote) and a few brief sentences of content. Choose a date that works for both parties and place it in each other’s newsletter.

2. Social Media Takeovers

Partner with another author to “take over” each other’s social media accounts for a day. This gives you access to a new audience and can make for entertaining, behind-the-scenes content.

Tips:

• Use Instagram Stories, TikToks, or Facebook Lives.

• Share writing tips, fun facts, or exclusive book content.

• Promote the takeover in advance so both audiences are ready to engage.

3. Joint Giveaways

Readers love free books and goodies. By running a giveaway with another author (or a group of authors), you pool your audiences together and gain wider visibility.

Tips:

• Offer a bundle of books, swag, or a gift card.

• Use platforms like KingSumo or Rafflecopter.

• Ask entrants to follow your social accounts or sign up for your newsletters.

If you ask for these people to sign up for your newsletter, ensure you have a welcome letter that shares upfront what they can expect from your newsletter. Doing so prevents people from subscribing to win the giveaway and then immediately unsubscribing.

4. Co-Writing Projects or Anthologies

Nothing connects authors like writing together. Anthologies and co-written books allow you to tap into each other’s readership and create something entirely new.

Tips:

• Make sure your writing styles and visions align.

• Set clear expectations and deadlines.

• Cross-promote the project with coordinated graphics and messaging.

5. Podcast or Blog Guest Features

Be a guest on another author’s podcast or blog, or invite them to yours. This builds authority while introducing you to each other’s communities.

Tips:

• Choose topics that appeal to both of your audiences.

• Promote the episode or article across all your platforms.

• Repurpose the content into social posts or newsletter features.

6. Group Book Launches or Events

If you and a few authors are releasing books around the same time (especially within the same genre), consider a joint launch party, panel, or virtual event.

Tips:

• Use Zoom, Crowdcast, or Instagram Live.

• Invite readers to attend for sneak peeks, giveaways, and Q&A sessions.

• Promote the event across all author channels.

7. Cross-Posting Content

Write blog posts, reels, or threads that feature other authors or books. You can also team up for themed content days (e.g., “Fantasy Friday”) where you all share posts around the same topic.

Tips:

• Tag each other and use shared hashtags.

• Coordinate posting times to maximize exposure.

• Offer real value to readers: tips, insights, or curated book recs.

Collaboration isn’t about competing for attention — it’s about expanding your reach by supporting one another.

By choosing the right partners, planning strategic campaigns, and consistently showing up for your writing community, you can grow your readership while making genuine connections that fuel your author journey.

So if you’re looking to get the word out about your next book, don’t go it alone. Partner up — and watch your audience grow.