What Has Your Reader’s Attention?

A good book keeps a reader glued to its very last page. An even better book keeps a reader gripped by the story long after the final page is turned. As authors, we all want to be in that latter category with our readers not only invested in that one story but interested in other books we have published or have in the pipeline. How do we do it? In 2025, one answer is clear: social media engagement. 

It comes as no surprise that the easiest way to stay up-to-date in the digital age is following along on social media. Favorite authors, artists, brands, content creators—you name it, there is an account for it. A previous blog post briefly touched on this very topic, but what are authors doing to effectively manage their social media pages to maintain a loyal, engaged following? Here’s a quick dive into some practical posting strategies and ideas you may find helpful to consider and be inspired to utilize in your own writing journey: 

1. Consistent Posting  

This one might seem like the most obvious and straightforward, but there is a reason it is number one. A consistent posting schedule keeps your audience in touch and more likely to engage with your content when you show a commitment to them. The key is finding the right balance—not enough content is unappealing to followers, and too much may lead to followers becoming disengaged or worse, unfollowing altogether. Aiming for at least five times a week, no matter the platform, increases how likely it is your posts get attention. 

2. Content Matters 

The right balance includes focusing on the kind of content you publish. Studies have shown that a variety of posts strike the right chords for successful engagement, and while social media should be used for promotional purposes, a significant portion of your online content should be dedicated to entertaining and educating your followers to reflect your interest in theirs. Promoting your books in creative ways makes those posts seem less like a sales pitch and more like an attempt to connect with your audience. 

3. Q&A Sessions 

What better way is there for your readers to not only get to know your stories more but you as an author as well? Facebook and Instagram have proven to be popular for these kinds of interactions with the capability to go live and communicate in real time with your audience. The opportunity for engagement here is highly promising and mutually beneficial for both reader and author alike because of the personalized approach. 

4. Behind-the-Pages 

An extension from Q&A sessions, an inside look into your life as a writer and what goes into bringing your ideas to paper offers your readers a unique chance to learn about the writing process and how their favorite stories are crafted. Perhaps a peek into your office or writing space through a “Day in the Life” series or sharing what you have found is helpful in keeping you on track in meeting your writing goals—whatever it is, act with your audience’s interests in mind. 

5. Giveaways 

If feasible, giveaways are a great way to promote your work and appeal to a broader audience. They don’t have to be complicated—they can be as simple as having people like a post, follow your page, and tag a friend to enter and be randomly selected for a free copy of your book. Be sure to use hashtags and other engagement tools to increase your visibility. 

In the end, the beauty of social media is that you can use it in whichever way you see fit for your own unique goals. Experiment, find out what works for you, and remember: the “right” engagement is the one that is most authentic to you and your audience. 

—DG