Does Every Author Need an Instagram Account?

Publishing is a lot different than it used to be and having a solid digital presence is more important than ever. Many writers are leveraging social media platforms like Instagram to engage with readers, expand their audience, and establish a personal brand. But is it really necessary?

While it’s possible to have a successful writing career without an Instagram account, it can be an incredibly beneficial tool that allows you to quickly grow an audience and connect with them on a personal level.

The publishing industry is shifting and no matter which platform you choose to prioritize, you will need a solid digital marketing strategy to market your books. It takes hard work and a lot of strategizing to maintain and grow a writing account on Instagram, but I think it’s so worth it! It can make your life a lot easier in many different ways.

This blog lists some of the top reasons for authors to start a writing account on Instagram, from building a personal brand to networking with fellow authors and more.

5 Reasons to Start a Writing Account on Instagram

When it comes to digital marketing, you don't want to put all your eggs in one basket. I recommend a well-rounded approach that feeds into multiple platforms. However, while I do use other channels like TikTok and YouTube Shorts, I've found the most success with Instagram.

I've been using Instagram for years. I started my current account back in 2020 to make cozy gaming content (and actually grew pretty quickly, I was partnering with brands and getting a lot of free stuff!), but then decided to turn it into a writing account when I got my publishing deal for Lone Player.

Since then, I've had years to refine my marketing strategy, and I've only just now nailed down an approach that works for me. And it's paid off a lot! My reach has grown significantly, my audience is expanding a lot, and I just love the reading and writing community.

Whether you’re a new writer just starting out or an established author looking to enhance their marketing game, here are some of the top reasons why you should start a writing account on Instagram.

1. Build a Personal Brand as an Author

One of the best things you can do for your career as a writer is establishing your personal brand.

As an author, your name is your brand. Having an active social media presence, especially on Instagram, allows you to establish a recognizable and consistent author brand that resonates with your target audience and sets you apart from the crowd.

One thing we talk about a lot in marketing is E-E-A-T (experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trust). This is typically discussed in reference to SEO (ranking on Google), but it’s also important for brand establishment and building trust with your audience. Instagram is a great way to display these different factors through helpful content that resonates with your readers and shows that you are worth their time. 

This is an ideal platform for sharing your writing process, behind-the-scenes content, daily routines and challenges, and your personal experiences as an author. By establishing your E-E-A-T in a relatable and engaging way, you can build a meaningful connection with your audience and set yourself apart from others in the industry.

2. Connect Directly with Your Readers

One of my favorite parts about having a writing account on Instagram is connecting with my readers!

I try to stay off Goodreads for quite a few different reasons. Firstly, it’s meant to be a safe space for readers to express their honest opinions, so I’m only on the app when posting a review myself or adding things to my shelves. I don’t want to enter a space that isn’t for me. Secondly, let’s be honest—we tend to remember the negative reviews a lot more than the positive ones.

So, Instagram is really the only place where I’m able to connect with my readers! Most readers on Bookstagram follow good review etiquette (only tagging authors in positive reviews, not negative ones, because we need our own safe spaces too) and luckily I haven’t been tagged in any negative content yet (knock on wood lol).

I’ve had so many readers reach out to me expressing their love for my work, and as someone who has very bad imposter syndrome and is pretty insecure about my writing, this means the world to me! It’s such a good reminder of why I’m doing this. I’m writing for the people who will enjoy my book, for the people my stories will resonate with. It’s easy to forget that sometimes.

Also, my readers are so fun! I’ve connected with so many hilarious and encouraging people and I’m so grateful for the support I receive in this community.

Plus, when you consistently like and reply to comments and actually engage with your readers and have meaningful discussions with them, you’re showing that you appreciate them, too. It’s just a lot of fun!

3. Promote Your Books, Events, and Upcoming Projects

Instagram is an excellent platform for authors to market their books, events, upcoming projects, and so much more. You have the potential to reach hundreds of thousands of people with the right strategies.

I’m sure we’ve all seen success stories of authors going viral on Instagram or TikTok and instantly getting major book and film deals. Going viral is really a matter of luck, timing, and algorithms beyond our control—however, it really is completely possible to grow your audience on Instagram, and this can translate into more sales!

You don’t need to go viral overnight to see an increase in book sales. I’ve had people comment or reach out to me and tell me they saw a reel I made and decided to buy my books, for both the “viral” videos and the ones that don’t get a lot of views.

So with or without the dice game of virality, if you’re consistently producing fun, relatable, enjoyable content about writing and your books, readers will find you! It just takes a lot of time and practice to nail down a strategy that works for you.

Consistency is key, and try to be as relatable as possible!

4. Network with Fellow Writers and Industry Professionals

The absolute best part of having an author Instagram, in my opinion, is networking with other writers. The writing community on this app is so positive and supportive and it’s such an inspiring environment to be a part of! I’ve made so many great online and in person writing friends this way. If you’re ever feeling down about your writing or just need some motivation, there will always be someone to cheer you up and on.

Plus, having an Instagram opens the door to so many different opportunities for career advancement, collaboration, events, and more!

For example, I first heard about the Lost Island Press writing contest back in 2021 thanks to Instagram. That’s when I decided to write Lone Player in 28 days and submit it in time for the contest—and I ended up winning a publication deal for the entire trilogy.

So, I largely have Instagram to thank for the opportunities I’ve received in my journey as an author! I’m truly so grateful for the support and community on this app and what I’ve been able to achieve because of it.

5. Access Valuable Reader Feedback and Insights

Over the years, Instagram has undergone many updates and they’re constantly adding fun, unique tools to help you better engage with your audience. Features like polls, story questions, quizzes, and direct messages allow you to directly gather feedback from your audience and refine your work to better serve your readers.

Plus, these features can be really fun! Q&A sessions tend to be very enjoyable for both parties. You can even survey your readers about what they want to see in your next books and things like that. There are endless possibilities!

Discover More Marketing Tips for Authors

Having an online presence as an author is more important now than ever. Instagram is a valuable tool that can help writers promote their work, connect with other readers and writers, and so much more.

Whether you’re a new author looking for advice or an established writer who wants to read stuff about books, writing, and digital marketing for authors, you’re in the right place! Feel free to follow me on Instagram or check out my other blog posts for more tips and thoughts.