It may be semantics, but I believe the term author has more credibility.

You would think building your reputation as an author would begin after you have published a book. However, you can start promoting yourself as an author before you publish.

One important question to ask yourself is “why do you want to be recognized as an author/writer?”

Is it for personal edification? Is it to prove to others you have increased value or have made an important accomplishment in your life?

In my mind, the best way to be recognized as an author is to create your author platform. Many people believe your author platform is your social media presence. This isn’t true. Social media and being visible in social media, is a key element of your author platform, but not the only thing.

Your author platform should start with actually calling yourself an author. This is a big step for many authors as many experience ‘imposter syndrome.’

You should have an updated LinkedIn profile featuring you as an author in your headline. In your profile you would insert promotional copy for your current publications and perhaps others under development.

You could feature the cover page for your book and perhaps some of the content.

One of the features of LinkedIn is the ability to join Groups. Search for groups focusing on your area of expertise or interest. Respond to other members questions or comments to start building your reputation. As people get to know you, it can become a good way to build your credibility and become a thought leader in your topic.

If you haven’t already, there is value in creating an author’s webpage as well as landing pages for your books.

Your author’s website provides you a perfect hub for disseminating your content. Creating a blog and a newsletter can be a great way to expand your reach and build your reputation.

Creating free content to be made available for download when someone signs up for your newsletter can be a great way to build your mailing list, and in turn your reputation.

Creating a Facebook page, tied into your author profile or featuring your book can be a great way to expand your reach. Engaging with your reader in promoting future sales would be your goal.

As for networking while in this Covid pandemic world, you need to be a little creative.

Many groups that were once meeting face-to-face have either shut down or transitioned into online meetings such as Zoom.

Many communities have writer’s groups you could easily join online. It can be a good way to start building your network. If you meet someone you resonate with you could set up a separate coffee chat Zoom call to get to know them better.

Many Toastmasters clubs have transitioned to online meetings. If there isn’t a Toastmasters club in your community, perhaps there is an online club in a nearby community to join.

While this isn’t face-to-face networking it can help build your communication skills for when we are able to gather together in group settings for face-to-face networking.