When indie authors think long term and take steps to gain momentum, they can lengthen their careers

Gaining traction as an indie author can feel like an uphill climb.
Why?
Because we pour our hearts into stories that have lived inside us for years — only to discover that writing the book is just one piece of a much bigger puzzle. Building a lasting author career requires learning the ins and outs of marketing, networking, publishing, and more.

That’s why it’s essential to take things one step at a time — focusing on what’s realistic and sustainable, especially when you’re working with a tight budget.
The good news?

There are practical, affordable, and even enjoyable ways to gain momentum. Many indie authors overlook just how powerful small, consistent actions can be. But when you implement them intentionally, that’s when the long-term growth begins.

Start Networking Early

Writing can be a solitary process — one where the most meaningful conversations happen between you and your characters. But if you want people to discover your work, you’ll need to step out of the writing cave and start connecting with others.

The earlier you begin networking — with readers, fellow authors, librarians, bloggers, and reviewers — the better. You can do this through social media, local events, or even casual online groups. The key is consistency and sincerity.

Yes, most writers are introverts. But to grow your readership, you need to show up — online and in your community — and start building relationships.

Here’s why networking matters:

• It connects you with others in the industry

• It teaches you more about the publishing landscape

• It opens doors to mutual support and collaboration

• It expands your visibility and reach

So, how can you get started?

• Visit your local library and introduce yourself. Offer a business card or donate a copy of your book.

• Show up on social media not just to post, but to engage — respond to comments, cheer others on, and share helpful insights.

• Focus on authentic relationships. Talk about your writing journey — your wins, your struggles, your “why.” Those real conversations are what people remember.

For more information on this see: How Networking with Bloggers, Authors, and Reviewers Furthers Your Career as an Author and The Importance of Making Connections as an Author

Create and Strengthen Your Author Platform

Your author platform is the foundation of your writing career.
Think of it like a tree: you, the author, are the trunk. Your books, website, newsletter, and social media channels are the branches — each one reaching out to connect with readers.

A strong platform isn’t something you build once and forget. Like a living tree, it needs to be nurtured, updated, and pruned regularly to stay healthy and relevant.

If you haven’t started building your platform yet, don’t worry — it’s not too late.

Begin with small, manageable steps:

• Choose one social media platform where your ideal readers spend time, and start showing up regularly.

• Build a website using a service like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress. You can hire a designer or use a template to create something clean, simple, and easy to update.

If your platform is already up and running, now is a great time to evaluate it.

Ask yourself:

• Can I branch out to another social media platform and post consistently engaging content?

• Am I preparing to release new books or other content that would benefit from a boost in visibility?

• Do I have a media or press section with past appearances, interviews, or contact details for speaking opportunities?

• Should I start or revive a newsletter — whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly — to connect directly with readers?

Strengthening your platform doesn’t mean overhauling everything overnight. It starts with assessing what you’ve already built.

Look at each piece — your site, your social presence, your content — and ask:

Is anything missing? Could something be updated, improved, or refreshed?

This kind of regular check-in keeps your platform aligned with your goals — and helps ensure it grows with you.

For more information on this: Building Your Brand as an Author: More Than Just a Name and How to maximize your platform as an author to grow your brand

Create Opportunities for Yourself

You are your biggest cheerleader.
No one will believe in your work as fiercely — or fight for it as passionately — as you will. That’s why one of the most important parts of growing your author career is learning how to create opportunities instead of waiting for them to show up.

Here are some proactive ways to do just that:

• Search for local events and festivals that welcome vendors, and invest in a table or booth where you can sell your books and meet readers face-to-face.

• Visit independent bookstores and ask if they’re open to stocking your book. Some might allow consignment or be willing to support local authors.

• Build relationships with your local library. Offer to participate in readings, author talks, or book club discussions. Libraries are community hubs — and they’re often eager to support local creatives.

• Look beyond traditional venues. Some boutiques, coffee shops, and gift stores may have shelf space for small displays or offer vendor opportunities during special events.

• Think outside the book. Could you offer readers exclusive merchandise? Bookish gifts? Branded items like stickers, bookmarks, shirts, or book box add-ins? Readers love feeling connected to the worlds you create.

• Reach out to podcasts, book bloggers, reviewers, and local media. Many are actively looking for authors to interview or feature — you just have to ask.

The more you network, the more doors you’ll start to see — and eventually, open.

As your platform grows and your confidence builds, these opportunities become easier to find and pursue.
But it all starts with one simple mindset shift: You have the power to create your own path.

For more information on this: How to Get Your Book into Libraries and Bookstores as a Self-Published Author and What Indie Authors Should Know Before Becoming a Vendor at a Brick and Mortar

Gaining momentum as an Indie Author means building one block at a time and taking big steps to further your career.

If you:

• Start networking early online, on social media, and in your community

• Create and strengthen your author platform

• Find ways to make opportunities for yourself as a vendor, with your library, or with influential people

Then you will further your author career and help gain momentum for yourself over time.