The best social media platform for authors based on your genre

Social media can be a fantastic tool for reaching readers, but it can also be a time-drain. Thinking about content and creating posts takes time away from your key activity — writing! It’s important that you don’t get stuck trying to do too much on every social media platform in the hopes of building a following. A more effective method is to pick a platform that works for you, and stick to it. Here are the best options based on the kind of writer you are.

For Fiction Writers

Literary Fiction, Romance and YA — Instagram

These genres are predominantly enjoyed by female readers, so it makes sense to prioritise a platform that is used more by women. Books in these categories also usually have beautiful and eye-catching cover designs, so a platform that prioritises imagery like Instagram is a great choice. Use Instagram to create visually stunning photographs of your book in settings inspired by the plot. Cosy winter romances can be styled with cups of hot chocolate and blankets; bright YA reads can be placed next to roller-skates, sunglasses or motifs from the text. Engage with readers through the plethora of tools available in Instagram Stories, like asking questions, conducting polls, sharing quizzes, and more.

Science Fiction, Fantasy and Historical Fiction — Facebook

These genres are characterised by strong fanbases and communities of avid readers. Facebook is the best way to interact with readers in this space by encouraging fans of your books to come together in a dedicated group and discuss elements of your novel(s). A Facebook Group connects you with like-minded fans and readers of the genre more broadly. Start discussions, conduct giveaways, and advertise events. A Facebook Page allows you to market your book and yourself as a writer, as well as posting about the genre more widely.

Graphic Novels, Children’s Books and Picture Books — Instagram

These image-focused books need to have a presence on Instagram. Take advantage of the beautiful illustrations and graphic art of your titles by posting parts of them on your feed and stories. Encourage others to share images from your book and even to attempt their own drawings and illustrations based on the book’s content. For children’s books, showcase story time type events and the experience of enjoying the text with family.

For Non-Fiction

Business, Politics and Psychology — LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the social media platform for professionals and people looking to grow or change their career. Books that are entered around business are therefore ideal for this setting. The more “serious” subjects are also well-suited to the platform where users are typically in a business headspace. Establish yourself as a thought-leader within your field by posting short articles using LinkedIn’s ‘Write Article’ functionality. Share other people’s posts from within your industry often, and include your own commentary.

Self-Help and Biography — Facebook

More personal non-fiction titles are best suited to the less-business-centric and more personalised platform of Facebook. Books that encourage personal growth or that tell a person’s story can be well marketed on this platform where authors can develop a sense of themselves and build a connection with readers. Use an author page to post relevant material, links to part of your personal story, inspiration quotes, and more.