The multifaceted role of being an author
As a young author, it’s easy for others to assume that our only task is to write. Writing, of course, is the core of our work. It’s the creative process through which we weave stories, develop characters, and craft narratives that resonate with readers. Writing is where our imaginations soar, and our ideas take shape. However, writing alone is just the beginning of our journey as authors.
As young authors, we also find ourselves wearing the hat of content creators. In today’s digital age, creating engaging content beyond our books is essential for connecting with our audience. This includes maintaining a blog, writing articles, and even crafting social media posts that provide insights into our writing process or share our perspectives on literary themes. Content creation allows us to build a community, engage with readers, and establish ourselves as voices worth listening to.
In addition to writing and content creation, we become project managers of our own literary endeavours. Whether we’re working on a novel, a short story collection, or a series of poems, we are responsible for planning, organizing, and executing these projects from start to finish. This involves setting deadlines, creating outlines, managing revisions, and ensuring the overall quality of our work. Project management skills are crucial for young authors to navigate the complex landscape of completing and publishing their literary creations.
Another role we embrace is that of a finance manager. As authors, we must understand and manage our finances effectively. Indie authors even more so. This means budgeting for expenses related to editing, cover design, marketing, and even self-publishing if we choose that route. Keeping track of our income and expenses, understanding royalty structures, and making strategic financial decisions are all part of being a young author in charge of our own business.
Speaking of business, we can’t overlook the marketing aspect of our role. Even with the backing of a traditional publishing house, the onus falls on us to promote our work and build our author brand. We engage in social media marketing, connect with book bloggers and influencers, participate in interviews and podcasts, and explore various avenues to increase our visibility.
Marketing skills are crucial for young authors to reach their target audience and generate interest in their writing. It’s important to acknowledge that being a young author encompasses all these roles and more. We are not just writers; we are entrepreneurs, managing various aspects of our literary careers. While it may seem daunting at times, embracing these diverse responsibilities is what allows us to have creative control and chart our own path in the publishing world.
