10 May 2024
As Christian authors, our calling goes beyond simply writing and publishing books. We are entrusted with a sacred message – one that has the power to transform lives and impact eternity. However, no matter how profound or life-changing our words may be, they can only reach those who know about our work. This is where the art of relationship-building becomes crucial. In this final installment of our “Unlocking the Power of Your Message” series, we’ll explore the foundational principles of building meaningful connections that can propel your writing ministry to new heights.
In the world of publishing, an author’s platform is more than just a buzzword – it’s a critical factor in determining the success of their work. Your platform encompasses your online presence, your network of influencers and supporters, and the overall visibility and reach of your message. A strong platform can open doors to bigger publishing deals, speaking opportunities, and a wider audience for your writing.
The Scriptural Foundation of Cultivating Relationships
The foundational importance of cultivating genuine relationships is woven throughout the pages of the Bible. From the very beginning, in the Garden of Eden, we learn that it is not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18). We are called to be in community, to sharpen one another as iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Even Jesus Himself exemplified the power of relationships, investing deeply in His disciples and equipping them to carry His message to the ends of the earth.
At the core of platform building and relationship-building lies the art of fostering authentic connections, nurturing trust, and creating a community that resonates with your message. While social media has become a dominant force, true relationship-building transcends amassing followers or likes. It’s about leading with authenticity, listening and engaging, offering value, collaborating and supporting others, and exercising consistency and patience.
Building Relationships: A Personal Anecdote
I can attest to the transformative power of relationships from personal experience. A few years ago, while transitioning from the fitness industry to the world of Christian authorship, I reconnected with an old friend, Jason Meeland. Through Jason, I was introduced to J.R., who then connected me with Devin Schubert on social media.
What began as a simple online introduction blossomed into a genuine friendship. Devin and I supported each other’s ministries, referring readers and opportunities to one another. Devin recently invited me to be a guest at a conference last April, where I had the privilege of meeting and connecting with other esteemed Christian authors and entrepreneurs, including individuals I had admired from afar for years.
This single connection, born out of a willingness to network and cultivate relationships, opened doors I could have never imagined. It allowed my message to reach new audiences and forged partnerships that continue to bear fruit in my ministry and authorship journey.
The Power of Relationship-Building for Christian Authors
1. Expanding Your Reach
By cultivating relationships with authors, professionals, and influencers, you gain access to their established audiences and networks. This exponentially increases your message’s reach.
2. Gaining Invaluable Insights and Support
Developing relationships provides a supportive community that understands the writing journey’s challenges, offering insights, advice, and encouragement.
3. Collaboration and Cross-Promotion
Relationships open doors to potential collaborations like co-authored books, speaking engagements, and cross-promotion, amplifying your collective impact.
4. Building a Loyal Readership
Investing in genuine relationships with readers creates a foundation of trust and connection, fostering a loyal community that champions your work.
5. Multiplying Opportunities
A well-cultivated network can open doors to speaking engagements, media interviews, book deals, and collaborations, amplifying your message’s impact.
Principles of Effective Relationship Building
1. Lead with Authenticity
Embrace vulnerability, share your struggles and victories, and let your authentic faith guide interactions, inviting deeper connections.
2. Listen and Engage
Foster trust by listening to others’ stories, asking thoughtful questions, and demonstrating genuine interest in understanding perspectives.
3. Offer Value
Stand out by consistently providing insights, resources, and wisdom that enrich lives and position you as a trusted authority.
4. Collaborate and Support Others
Seek opportunities to partner, support others’ work, and look for mutually beneficial collaborations that strengthen community.
5. Be Consistent and Patient
Approach relationship-building as a long-term investment, consistently engaging, providing value, and allowing seeds of connection to bear fruit over time.
Practical Strategies for Cultivating Relationships
1. Leverage Social Media
Utilize platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to connect, share updates, engage in conversations, and participate in relevant online communities.
2. Attend Live Events
Participate in writing conferences, book fairs, and ministry events to connect with readers, authors, and industry professionals face-to-face.
3. Build Influencer Relationships
Identify influential voices, build relationships through engagement and content sharing, and explore collaboration opportunities.
4. Seek Speaking Opportunities
Look for chances to speak at churches, small groups, or community events, using these platforms to share your message and promote your work.
5. Guest on Relevant Podcasts
Pitch yourself as a guest on podcasts aligned with your topics, offering expertise and reaching new potential readers.
6. Cultivate a Supportive Community
Foster a sense of community by creating engagement opportunities like Facebook groups, online discussions, Q&A sessions, or newsletters.
In conclusion, the power of cultivating relationships as a Christian author cannot be overstated. By embracing biblical principles, leading with authenticity, offering value, and consistently nurturing connections, you open doors to expanding your reach, gaining wisdom, collaborating, building loyalty, and multiplying opportunities.
Remember, your words have the potential to change eternities, but they can only reach those who know about your work. Invest time and effort into cultivating genuine relationships, and watch as your platform grows, your influence expands, and your message resonates with increasing impact for the Kingdom.
You can start cultivating relationships in a community of Christian Authors here.
