Sharing Stories, Building Friendships

Evan Swensen
3 min readApr 26, 2024

In the world of social media, an author’s page is much more than a spotlight for their latest book — it’s a cozy corner where readers gather to catch glimpses of the writer’s world. It’s a place where connections are made, not between the lines of text but in the spaces where conversations blossom and laughter is shared.

Think of your readers not just as customers but as companions on a journey. They’re here for the stories, yes, but they’re also here for you, the storyteller. They relish genuine moments, like an exchange about a funny typo that turned an ordinary email into a laughter riot. Every response is a small step closer to friendship, and every reader is a vital part of your journey.

Sharing your ups and downs makes you more than just a name on a book cover. It makes you human. Tell your readers about when only one person showed up to your book event. These shared moments create a fabric of memories that binds your readers to you.

Consistency is your secret ingredient. Just as a garden needs regular tending, so does your community. Whether you’re musing about the latest plot twist in your thriller series or sharing your favorite coffee spot, staying present keeps your readers engaged. Your author page is a daily meeting place where friends come to hear your latest tale.

Mixing inspiration, personal glimpses, and entertainment on your page is like inviting readers into your living room. A candid photo of your writing space, complete with the cat lounging on your keyboard, can spark joy and conversation.

But don’t stop at Facebook. Lead your readers down the digital paths to Twitter for a quick-witted quip or to your blog for a heartfelt story. Invite them to a book signing where they can step into the world you’ve crafted together. Each platform is another cozy room in the home you’re building with your readers.

Every interaction on your author page is like a warm hug, a welcome into your world. It’s a place where readers can find inspiration and a sense of togetherness. As a writer in the digital era, you’re not just penning stories; you’re creating a space where stories come to life and thrive.

And if you ever need some pointers on how to make your online presence even more welcoming and engaging, there are a host of guides and resources out there. Like in your stories, every chapter on engagement and community building is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect.

The story doesn’t end when the book closes. It’s just the beginning of another chapter where you and your readers write the narrative together.

We Don’t Want to Write the Laws; We Want to Publish the Books
We Believe in the Power of Authors Short Video: https://bit.ly/45z6mvf
Writers Reshape the World Short Video: https://bit.ly/47glKOg
Bringing Your Book to Market Booklet: https://bit.ly/2ymDVXx
Bringing Your Book to Market Short Video: https://bit.ly/3Q3g2JD

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Evan Swensen

Book publisher, editor, author, Author Masterminds charter member, founder of Readers and Writers Book Club, and bush pilot.