Some writers feel frustrated once they learn that platform development is an additional job to add to an already pretty hefty to-do list. And I can certainly understand this frustration because platform development is a specific skill set that every writer must learn.
But this doesn’t mean that building your platform can’t be integrated into your daily work rhythms with practice over time. Isn't that how we learn pretty much everything?
Yes, writers have to wear more hats today than in the past, so focusing on all the noise out there will only take a writer further away from what’s truly important—choosing the platform that comes naturally and building the most authentic platform possible for you.
Platform is not an act or a show you put on for the benefit of others. It’s a natural extension of your own curiosity, exploration and discoveries that you share with the world. It’s taking things writers traditionally love—stories, process and creativity—and making them public. Platform is aligning your niche topic and unique expertise with the appropriate audience to create a unique context and forge relationships and community.
Becoming visible won't be an overnight occurrence. Trying to rush platform development is a surefire path to frustration, not to mention publishing failure. When you allow yourself the time you need to build momentum, things tend to go faster than you expected. And then your platform momentum is positive and contagious.
But anyone can make good things happen in their writing career and the careers of others, no matter where they are in the platform-development process. Just begin today and take it one day at a time.
As a former student of Christina's, I can vouch for this advice. One way I began platform was to start a blog. A year later, I was getting quoted in mainstream media, all from the blog. You never know, so give it a shot!
Posted by: Mama J | May 12, 2009 at 09:24 AM