tiktok profile guide for authors
how to create the perfect author profile
photo by Olivier Bergeron on unsplash
Are you using TikTok as an author? If you haven’t used the platform yet, don’t wait! While it can be intimidating to create videos and follow the current trends, video content is on the rise and it’s a great way to build your following and sell your books. The first step to creating a profile is to ensure it’s optimized for success. Here are a few tips to get you started!
Create your account
Download the TikTok app and create a business account. With this option, there is less music to choose from, but if you are going to be promoting things, it's important that you are using business-approved music!
Set up your profile
First, choose a simple username:
your first + last name
first + last name + author
first + last name + writer
first + last name + poet (or your genre)
writer + first + last name
author + first + last name
Select an engaging headshot or photo of you that tells us something about you. (Mine is of me writing.)
In your bio, you have only 80 characters to describe who you are, what you do, and include a call-to-action (which is what you want your readers to do!). Be succinct and clear about what you write about and who it's for. Look at other authors in your genre for inspiration (don't copy!). Be sure to include a call-to-action such as "read my books" and connect your Instagram and/or YouTube account so readers can follow you on multiple platforms.
Your bio link
You need 1000 followers to have a clickable link in your bio, or you can submit your business registration info, if you have it. Under 1000 followers? Don’t fret! That’s why it’s great to have your Instagram linked so you can direct people there instead. Also, you can still include your link in your bio when you have less than 1000 followers. While it won’t be clickable, it’s still great to let your readers know what your website URL is so they can go search it on their own.
Learning new platforms can be challenging, but by incorporating a few of these tips, your profile will be stronger and optimized to grow your audience. Jump on a trend or create your own! The most important thing to remember is to have fun. You can find me on TikTok @shelbyleighpoetry and @jointhepoetryclub (where I share book marketing tips!).
plus, I launched book sales on tiktok: the booktok blueprint, a 50-page guide to help you master TikTok as a writer and sell more books. click here to grab it!