How to Position Yourself as a Pro in Your Genre (Even If You’re Just Starting Out)
Every author dreams of being seen as the go-to voice in their genre — the one readers trust, follow, and get excited about. But what if you’re just starting out? The truth is, you don’t need a shelf full of books or years of experience to position yourself as a professional. With the right strategies, you can step into your genre with confidence and authority from day one.
Here’s how:
1. Know Your Genre Inside and Out
Readers can spot authenticity. Take the time to study what’s trending, which tropes readers love, and how successful authors in your genre engage with their audience. This doesn’t mean copying them — it means understanding the expectations so you can meet (and sometimes creatively break) them.
Suggested Action: Make a “reader’s map” — list 5 authors in your genre, note what they’re known for, and then identify where your unique voice fits.
2. Build a Clear Author Brand
A professional author brand is the promise you make to readers about the type of experience they’ll get from your stories.
What themes show up in your work?
What emotions do you want readers to walk away with when they read your book(s) or visit your website/social media?
How do you want your author presence to feel online?
Example: If you’re writing cozy mysteries, your brand might emphasize warmth, charm, and curiosity. If you’re writing dark fantasy, your brand might lean toward mystery, intensity, and adventure.
3. Share Like a Pro
Even without multiple books, you can still share insights and stories that make you look like a seasoned pro. This means showing up consistently online and offering value.
Share behind-the-scenes writing updates.
Talk about research you’re doing.
Share favorite quotes or inspirations tied to your genre.
Offer commentary on trends or tropes in your space.
4. Borrow Credibility While You Build Your Own
Until you have multiple published books, lean on collaborations and associations.
Join genre-specific reader groups.
Do newsletter swaps with other authors.
Pitch guest blog posts or podcasts in your genre.
The more your name appears alongside other trusted authors, the faster your own credibility grows.
5. Show Up Consistently
Professionalism is often less about how many books you’ve written and more about how reliably you show up. A steady newsletter, consistent social posts, or regular engagement in reader communities all signal: “I’m serious about my career.”
Suggested: Pick one platform and one type of content you can realistically commit to — and stick to it.
Want to see how your author brand stacks up? Grab the FREE Magnetic Author Brand Check List today!