Social media platforms were created primarily as a way to connect with people, as a way to be social online without being in the same vicinity. However, with the increased popularity of social media and the ways you can promote your books with these platforms, some authors forget about the ‘social’ part of social media and use it as a free advertising platform.

It’s been proven by experts that people will spend their money with those they know, like, and trust. But if all you’re doing is posting photos of your books, you’re not allowing anyone to know you. If your followers don’t know who you are, it’s impossible for them to genuinely like you and you’re simultaneously hindering the trust factor.

So, show off your personality with your social media posts. Let the real you shine through and you will naturally attract your group of readers. Here are 3 ways to spice up your social media posts with some personality:

1. Act like you’re the hostess and your followers are at your party. When hosting a party, you want everyone to be happy and having a good time, right? The same is true on social media platforms. Don’t just hang out on your page; visit other pages and leave comments. Ask your followers questions. Really listen to their answers. Respond to questions or comments that are asked of you. Be compassionate and friendly. Share recommendations of other authors you love to read.
2. Share your sense of humor and be entertaining. Search YouTube for the videos that strike your funny bone. Better yet, get on Facebook Live and showcase your personality. This doesn’t mean acting fake because you want people to be entertained; rather, be yourself and tell the funny thing your kid said or relay something comical that happened in a scene you are writing or something funny you discovered while researching for your latest book. Everybody can use a laugh and posting videos or funny photos is a way to lighten the online atmosphere.
3. Provide value and inspiration. Talk about your books and characters and let your passion shine but let it be more than, “Buy my book!” Your readers wants to know what’s in it for them; what are your books like? What are your characters like? Is this a complete series or ongoing? It’s not you making sales; it’s about providing readers with an escape. Share your favorite inspirational quotes, especially around the holidays, which can be a tough time of year for some folks.