10 Engaging Social Media Content Ideas for Authors

Jan 22

As an author, your social media presence is a vital part of connecting with readers and building a community. However, finding new and creative ways to keep your followers engaged can sometimes be a challenge. Here are 10 social media content ideas that are not only engaging but also help you grow your audience and nurture relationships with your readers.

1. Behind-the-Scenes Writing Process

Share snippets of your writing journey—whether it’s a sneak peek of your writing space, a photo of your brainstorming notes, or a short video of you typing away at your desk. This gives your followers a peek behind the curtain, making them feel connected to you as an author. You can even share the highs and lows: "I finally got past that tricky chapter!" or "It took me two hours to write one paragraph, but I got it!"

Example Post:
"Here’s a peek at my writing desk this morning. Not the most glamorous, but it’s where the magic happens! ✨ #AmWriting #BehindTheScenes #WritingLife"

2. Character Introductions

Introduce your book’s characters in a fun, engaging way. You can do this through graphics, quotes, or even video. Share a character’s backstory, personality traits, or fun facts. If they’re quirky, funny, or flawed, highlight that. Ask your audience to interact by commenting on what they think of the character or which one is their favorite.

Example Post:
"Meet Mia, the fierce and fearless protagonist of my new novel! She’s not afraid to speak her mind (or swing a sword). 💥 What’s your favorite character trait in a heroine? Tell me below! #CharacterIntro #WritingCommunity"

3. Polls and Quizzes

Polls are a fantastic way to engage your audience, spark conversations, and get feedback on your writing. You can ask fun questions like, “Which type of romance trope do you prefer?” or “What’s your ideal book setting?” Quizzes like “Which character from my book are you?” or “Which of my books should you read next?” are also interactive and fun ways to get readers involved.

Example Post:
"Quick poll: Which do you prefer in a thriller novel: a plot twist you didn’t see coming or a slow-burn mystery that keeps you guessing? Vote now! #ThrillerLovers #BookPoll"

4. Share a Favorite Quote from Your Book

Everyone loves a good book quote, especially if it resonates emotionally or leaves readers thinking. Share a powerful, funny, or thought-provoking quote from your latest book. Accompany it with a beautiful image that relates to the quote or scene. Ask followers to share their favorite quotes from your work or books in general.

Example Post:
"‘She wasn’t afraid of the dark anymore—she had become it.’ — From The Shadows Between Us. What’s your favorite quote from a book that stayed with you? #QuoteOfTheDay #BookQuotes"

5. Fan Art and Reader Creations

If you have fan art, book-related memes, or other reader-generated content, make sure to share it. This shows appreciation for your readers and makes them feel involved in your work. You can encourage fans to submit their art or interpretations of your characters, and you might even feature their work on your page.

Example Post:
“Check out this amazing fan art of my character, Leo, from The Storm Breaker! 🎨 What do you think? Want to create your own? Tag me, and I might feature it on my page! #FanArtFriday #AuthorLife"

6. Host a Giveaway or Contest

Everyone loves free stuff! Hosting a giveaway or contest is a great way to increase engagement. Offer signed copies of your book, exclusive swag, or a special sneak peek at your next release. To enter, ask followers to like, comment, or share the post. Contests and giveaways can also help you reach a broader audience if you partner with other authors or influencers.

Example Post:
🎉 GIVEAWAY ALERT 🎉
I’m celebrating the release of The Midnight City with a giveaway! Win a signed copy + exclusive bookmarks. To enter, like this post and tag a fellow book lover in the comments! Winner will be announced next week. Good luck! #BookGiveaway #BookLovers"

7. Writing Tips or Advice

Share writing tips, techniques, or advice that has helped you along your writing journey. This positions you as an authority in your genre and helps fellow writers. You can share personal anecdotes about what worked for you or provide helpful insights into aspects like character development, plot structure, or overcoming writer’s block.

Example Post:
"Tip for aspiring writers: Don’t be afraid to kill your darlings. Cutting a scene or character that you’re emotionally attached to can actually strengthen your story. Trust the process! ✨ What’s one writing tip you’ve learned that helped you? #WritingTips #AmWriting"

8. Share an Excerpt or Chapter Sneak Peek

Give your followers a reason to be excited about your upcoming book by sharing an excerpt or chapter from your manuscript. A tantalizing preview, especially one that ends on a cliffhanger or reveals a key moment, can make your audience eager to buy when the book is released.

Example Post:
“Here’s a sneak peek from the first chapter of my upcoming novel Echoes of the Fallen. What happens next? Find out soon! 😏 [Insert excerpt] #SneakPeek #ComingSoon"

9. Ask for Book Recommendations or Reader Input

Engage your followers by asking them for book recommendations, particularly if they’re in the same genre as your writing. You can also ask for input on things like cover design, book titles, or future plot ideas. This makes your followers feel like they’re part of the creative process and helps to spark conversations.

Example Post:
"Looking for some fresh reading material! What’s the last book you read that totally blew you away? Drop your recommendations in the comments! #BookRecommendations #Readers"

10. Celebrate Milestones with Your Followers

Celebrate both personal and professional milestones with your followers. Whether it’s finishing your latest manuscript, hitting a certain number of books sold, or reaching a social media follower goal, let your readers celebrate with you. You can thank your followers for their support and show them how much their engagement means to you.

Example Post:
“Just hit 5,000 followers! 🎉 I can’t thank you all enough for the support! As a huge thank you, I’ll be hosting a special giveaway this weekend. Stay tuned! #MilestoneMoment #GratefulAuthor"

Final Thoughts

Social media is all about connection, so the more you can interact with your followers in an authentic and creative way, the stronger your bond with them will be. Don’t be afraid to show your personality, share moments of vulnerability, and, of course, have fun with it! By keeping your content varied, engaging, and authentic, you’ll build a dedicated audience that’s excited to support you and your books.

Which of these ideas will you try first? Share your thoughts or any other content ideas you’ve found successful in the comments!

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