Social Media for Authors: Where to Start and What to Post
- Justine Martin
- May 7
- 3 min read
Build your author brand online one post at a time.
So, you've written a book or you're in the process and now you're wondering... "Do I really need to be on social media?"
Short answer: Yes. Longer answer: Yes, but it doesn’t have to be scary, overwhelming, or time-consuming.
At Morpheus Publishing, we know many of our authors didn’t grow up with Instagram filters and Facebook algorithms. That’s why we’re here to make it simple.
Here’s where to start, what to post, and how to build your presence authentically without selling your soul to the scroll.
Why Authors Need Social Media
Social media helps you:
Connect with readers
Build a community around your message
Promote your book globally
Attract opportunities (speaking gigs, interviews, collaborations)
Share your story on your own terms
Readers want to connect with the person behind the pages. You don’t need to be an influencer. You just need to be you.
Step 1: Choose the Right Platforms
You don’t need to be everywhere. Start where your audience already hangs out, and where you feel comfortable.
The top 3 for most authors:
Facebook – Great for longer posts, book groups, and personal storytelling
Instagram – Visual platform for quotes, behind-the-scenes, and quick updates
LinkedIn – Perfect for non-fiction authors, professionals, and thought leadership
Tip: Start with one or two platforms you can manage consistently.
Step 2: What to Post (Without Feeling Salesy)
If you only ever post "Buy my book!", people will scroll on by. Instead, think of your content in three easy buckets:
1. Connection (Who You Are)
Let readers get to know the real you.
Your writing journey
Why you wrote your book
A peek at your writing space
Mental health, resilience, or daily challenges you face
Fun facts or personal stories
“Here’s what I learnt writing Chapter 4...” “What I wish I knew before I started writing...”
2. Value (What You Know)
Position yourself as helpful, insightful, or inspiring.
Tips from your book
Quotes or excerpts
Writing advice
Personal reflections that others relate to
“If you're navigating grief, here's one thing that helped me...” “In my book, I explore the power of resilience after trauma…”
3. Promotion (What You’ve Created)
Now it’s time to shine!
Cover reveal
Book launch date
Amazon or website link
Testimonials or reviews
Photos from your book signing or event
“It’s here! My book is now available on Amazon thank you to everyone who’s supported this journey!” “Still buzzing after yesterday’s launch so much gratitude!”
Bonus Tips for Success
✅ Use your face – People connect with people, not just book covers
✅ Show up consistently – Even once a week is better than once every six months
✅ Engage – Reply to comments, thank people for sharing, and be human
✅ Hashtags – Use relevant ones like #authorlife, #bookstagram, or genre-specific tags
✅ Keep it short, real, and relatable – Perfection isn’t required
What If You Don’t Know What to Say?
You're not alone. Many authors freeze up when it comes to content.
Here are 5 easy prompts to get you started:
“Why I wrote this book…”
“The hardest part of writing was…”
“This quote from Chapter 3 hits me every time…”
“I never thought I’d be a published author, but here’s what changed.”
“A message to anyone who’s struggling right now…”
Remember: your story is your brand. And your voice is your power.
Final Thoughts: Just Start
You don’t need 10,000 followers to make an impact. You just need to show up as yourself and speak from the heart.
At Morpheus Publishing, we support you not just in writing your book, but in sharing it with the world. Social media is one of your most powerful tools don’t be afraid to use it.
Need help with author branding or content ideas? Ask us about our social media templates and coaching for Morpheus authors.
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