How to Build a KidLit Career (Without chasing followers)

Let’s clear something up straight off the bat: you do not need 10k Instagram followers to get a publishing deal. There, I said it.

If you’ve been thinking, “I’ll never make it as an author unless I go viral,” this one’s for you. Because while visibility helps, a massive follower count isn’t the golden ticket it’s often made out to be. And honestly? Focusing solely on that number can distract you from what really matters when building a career in children’s publishing.

Let’s unpack why a small, engaged community beats a big, empty one—and what publishers, readers, and YOU should focus on instead.

The Myth of the Mega-Following

We live in a world where follower counts seem to carry weight. We assume more followers = more success. But here’s what most people don’t realise:

- Engagement matters more than numbers.
- Publishers are looking at the quality of your work and your ability to connect.
- Your brand, your voice, and your consistency are what actually build career momentum.

It’s easy to be dazzled by authors with tens of thousands of followers, but many of them have slow-burn success stories built over years of consistent effort—not overnight virality.

So, What Do You Need?

1. A Clear and Consistent Personal Brand

Your personal brand is more than a logo or a pretty Instagram grid—it’s the energy you bring to the industry. It's your voice, your values, your vibe. It's the way you show up and talk about your work (and yourself) both online and offline.

Ask yourself:
- What do I want to be known for?
- How do I want people to feel when they read my books or see my posts?
- What parts of myself am I proud to share with my audience?

When you’re clear on this, your messaging becomes magnetic—and that pulls in the right readers, publishers, and collaborators.

2. Genuine Community Engagement

Forget trying to speak to everyone. Instead, speak to your people.

- Show up consistently.
- Reply to comments.
- Share behind-the-scenes moments.
- Celebrate others in your niche.

People remember how you make them feel. And a genuine connection with 500 followers is infinitely more powerful than a disengaged audience of 50,000. Trust builds loyalty—and loyalty builds brand advocates, which in turn generates sales.

3. Great Content that Reflects Your Voice and Purpose

You don’t have to post daily. But what you do post should feel aligned with your message and goals.

Here’s how to create content that resonates: 
- Share the why behind your stories.
- Offer value: tips, insights, relatable experiences.
- Show your personality: silly, sweet, soulful, snarky—whatever feels like you.
- Use your captions to tell mini-stories. You’re a writer—own that!

Your content is a chance to show people what you’re about long before your book hits shelves. Use it wisely.

4. A Professional, Polished Submission or Portfolio

Whether you're an author, illustrator, or both—your manuscript, pitch, and visual presentation need to be on point.

This matters more than your follower count.

Publishers are looking for:
- Strong, marketable stories
- Clear, compelling writing
- Distinct voice and originality
- A professional attitude and the ability to work collaboratively

Not sure your manuscript is there yet? That’s okay. Get feedback. Book an assessment. Invest in your craft.

5. A Willingness to Play the Long Game

This isn’t a one-post-and-done kinda gig.

Success in children’s publishing often comes after months (or years) of:
- Writing, revising, submitting
- Building your confidence
- Growing relationships within the community
- Learning how to show up online in a way that feels good and sustainable

It’s the little things done consistently that create momentum.
So don’t panic if you’re not “blowing up.” Focus on showing up.

Still Want to Grow Your Audience? Here’s How to Do It Without Selling Your Soul

If your goal is growth with purpose, focus on these three things:

1. Share Authentically, Not Performatively

People connect with people. Show your face, your process, your wins and wobbles.

2. Teach What You Know

Whether it's storytelling tips or insights about your creative process—share what’s helped you. You never know who needs it.

3. Collaborate With Others in Your Space

Tag, feature, or interview other creators. Not only is it generous, it helps cross-pollinate your audiences.

Bonus? Influencer marketing and reviews. Even small-scale influencers in your niche can make a huge impact by promoting your book. Focus on:

- Reaching out to kidlit creators, educators, or parenting bloggers
- Sending advance copies to reviewers who align with your book’s theme
- Offering guest blog posts or interviews to relevant platforms

This kind of exposure creates trust-based buzz—way more powerful than paid ads alone.

Let go of the idea that you need to go viral to be valid. You don’t need to shout louder—you just need to speak clearly, consistently, and like yourself.

Your voice matters. Your stories matter. Your audience will find you—not because you’ve got a blue tick—but because you’re showing up with purpose and passion.

So stop obsessing over the numbers. Start focusing on connection, craft, and consistency.

Need help refining your brand? Click the link here and let's chat.