Why Authors Didn’t Use to Need Platforms

Feb 25, 2022

Some of the Goings On at LDB

It’s been fun, daunting, exhilarating, and so worthwhile to see things coming together for Lake Drive Books.

We’ve got manuscripts currently being edited, covers being designed, and one is already in the typesetting phase, soon to be followed by another.

One of the things that has been the most enjoyable about starting this new imprint that focuses on authenticity and hope in the religious publishing space has been some of the comments from the folks who’ve joined our efforts as editors, designers, even literary agents. Paraphrasing here:

“I really believe in what you’re doing and would love to be a part.”

“I’ve been working on books that I haven’t enjoyed so much, and please sign me up for more of yours.”

“This is so needed right now.”

Needless to say, thanks to those of you who’ve made these comments. They are fuel for our efforts. These comments signify one of the most enjoyable things about this work: bringing people together for a common cause. Creating this kind of experience working together is not to be taken for granted or overlooked or to go unnoticed. Thank you!

Below, take a look at some of my recent musings about publishing and what it’s like for authors, and what new opportunities there are. Even if you’re not an author, you might find your own life impacted by the big changes going on in our lives, mentioned below.

Keep reading, keep telling others about books. They have the power to change lives.

Gratefully,

David Morris, Publisher

Why Authors Didn’t Use to Need Platforms

I often hear this from authors: “Back in the day, an author didn’t need a platform.” Authors, I’m here to tell you that you are right.

That said, a book “back in the day” still had a platform. It was the publisher’s platform.

One of the things that I try to focus on as publisher of Lake Drive Books is to help authors with their platforms. I try to make it a tangible feature of working with my publishing house. Most publishers only go so far in helping an author organically build their platform, and instead put most of their time and expertise into marketing tactics around the launch of the book. The problem, however, is that these days, the most effective tactics around launching a book often begin with the power of the author’s platform, which includes it all: website, social media, email list, speaking, network, endorsers, past publishing, etc.

So one of the first things that happen with a Lake Drive Books author after signing a contract is to schedule meetings around a conversation on their platform. I don’t get into deeply technical or sophisticated aspects like SEO or social media ads. I simply start with the author’s current setup and help them take achievable next steps.

Often, platforming work seems hard and maybe a little “selfie” centered. But what you’ll find out about all the work involved is that it’s about becoming part of a community, or even building a community of your own. But it indeed can be overwhelming. And sometimes seems at cross purposes with creating good writing.

Let’s look a little more at why it’s so important, and maybe even an interesting new way to do things.

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Why Authors Didn’t Use to Need Platforms

Some of the Goings On at LDB

Why Authors Didn’t Use to Need Platforms

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