Engagement is key.  With an ever increasing number of digital tools available, writers must actively self-promote. The “Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing” panel at Tech Theatre on March 11th offered invaluable insights into the evolving digital landscape. Five industry experts’ discussion explored how writers could leverage emerging platforms and refine their strategies on established ones to build a sustainable and authentic audience.

Matt Trinetti and Parul Bavishi, co-founders of the London Writers' Salon, emphasized the power of community building through platforms like Discord and Substack. Their success with the daily Writers' Hour, gathering over 20,000 writers, showcases the effectiveness of creating dedicated spaces for engagement and collaboration.

Emma Gannon, a Sunday Times bestselling author, highlighted the significance of Substack newsletters, exemplified by her own popular “The Hyphen.” She stressed the importance of fostering direct connections with readers through curated content and exclusive insights. Her experience also showed how hosting retreats can create a physical community.

Georgia Henry, a digital marketing expert and founder of The Pitch Agency, shed light on the transformative impact of BookTok. Her work with major publishers underscored the platform's potential for reaching new audiences and driving book sales. She advocated for an “audience-first” approach, tailoring content to resonate with specific demographics.

Rosie Kellett, author of "In For Dinner," demonstrated how personal storytelling and culinary expertise can converge to build a thriving online community. Her journey, from sharing recipes and communal living experiences on social media to launching a bestselling Substack newsletter, illustrates the power of authenticity and relatability. Her upcoming North American publication signifies the reach digital connection can achieve.

The panel collectively emphasized the need for writers to embrace adaptability and experimentation. They highlighted the importance of choosing platforms that align with their personal brand and content, fostering genuine connections, and staying abreast of emerging trends. As writers navigate the complexities of modern marketing, these insights offer a roadmap for building a loyal readership.