The buzz word in publishing these days is platform. Accepted wisdom (or rumor) is that an author cannot sell without one. I find this debatable, but I will call it plausible. The problem with this idea is that it suggests that platform is the most important part of publishing. It is not.
The writing is.
The story is.
The thing we as writers wish to convey.
None of this falls into the arena of social media, but of creative writing. It is the story that keeps up at the keys long after we should have gone to bed or left for work. It is story that pulls us from other aspects of our life.
Story is why we write, not platform.
This is not to say that platform doesn’t have its place. It does. Particularly in today’s digital world. Platform is how people get to know you and how potential readers find you. It’s a way to promote what you do and how you do it. It’s a way to find readers, other writers and meet new friends.
The key to launching a new platform is not letting it take over and eclipse the work itself. It’s finding that balance between outreach and creation.
Sometimes building a platform distracts. Why? Because it’s easy…well, easier than writing or editing, that is. Tackling a blog post is nothing compared to editing a manuscript. It’s, dare I say, fun?
Like everything in a writer’s life, it requires balance between the actual work and the platform. I have been focusing on the writing lately and been neglecting this site. For this, I apologize. I promise to find a better balance between outreach and the work.
I do understand the need for both. So from now on I will post more often. I’ve set up an editorial calendar and deadlines. I am good with deadlines. I’m better with deadlines than the social stuff, so please bear with me. This hermit is admittedly a bit lost in this crowded world.
What about you? Do you find social media easy? If not, how do you do it? Do you have any tips for a newbie who is the definition of the word “introvert.”