How to Write a Guest Post For Authors
Want to reach new readers, build your author platform, and share your story? Writing a guest post is one of the best ways to do just that. If you’ve never done it before, it can feel intimidating.
Where do you start? What should you say? How long should it be?
Don’t worry. This guide will walk you through how to write a guest post, plus offer tips for making your post stand out in the best way.
What Is a Guest Post and Why Should You Write One?
A guest post is an article you write and publish on another author’s or blogger’s website. It’s like getting invited to a book club where you’re the featured guest! Instead of selling your books, you’re sharing your story, insights, or writing journey with a new audience, leaving them curious to know more about you.
Why guest post?
Here’s why guest posting is a smart move, especially for indie or emerging authors:
- Reach new readers who already trust the blog or author you’re guesting with
- Grow your platform by including a link to your newsletter, freebie, or books
- Build relationships in the author community and beyond
- Practice your voice in a low-pressure, personal way
- Create evergreen content that keeps working for you over time
If you want to grow your audience without pushy marketing, guest posting is a friendly, low-key way to make new fans. Even just one well-placed guest post can lead to new newsletter sign-ups, book sales, or speaking invites, so it’s well worth your time.
What Should You Write About?
The best guest posts feel personal and genuine, like you’re chatting with readers over coffee.
Here are some ideas to get started:
- Behind the scenes: What inspired your novels, characters, or settings?
- Writing life: Share your daily routine, challenges, or funny moments.
- Lessons learned: What’s one big takeaway from your writing journey?
- Bookish favorites: Talk about your favorite reads or authors who inspire you.
- Seasonal & cozy content: Share a recipe, tradition, or memory that fits your genre vibe.
If you’re stuck, just ask yourself: What would I tell a friend who asked, “How did you get into writing?”
How Long Should Your Guest Post Be?
Aim for about 800–1000 words. That’s enough space to tell a good story, offer a takeaway, and introduce yourself without losing attention.
Keep paragraphs short (2–4 lines) and use subheadings or bold text to make it easy to scan on mobile.
What to Include With Your Post
To make your guest post complete and reader-friendly, don’t forget these extras:
- An engaging title
Make it clear and catchy, like “How I Found Inspiration in a Cup of Coffee” or “The Writing Habit That Changed Everything.” - Main body of the post Tell a story, offer insight, or reflect on something personal. First-person voice works great!
- A short author bio (2–4 sentences)
Introduce yourself and your genre, plus one personal detail. Example: Michelle L. Clifton writes cozy mysteries filled with humor, murder, and happily-ever-afters. When she’s not writing, she’s dreaming of boating adventures with her family on America’s Great Loop. - Links to your website or newsletter
Include one or two links so readers can follow you or sign up for updates. - Optional images. If the host accepts images. I highly recommend
Author photo and book covers make the post more inviting.
Tips for Writing a Great Guest Post
- Write like you talk
Keep your tone conversational and authentic. Like writing a letter to a fellow book lover. - Show your personality
Readers love honesty and humor.
Share the funny, awkward, or unexpected moments from your writing life. Those are the details readers remember. - Don’t oversell
Mention your books naturally, but focus on connection, not sales. - Proofread
Double-check for typos and clarity, but don’t stress perfection.
What Happens After You Submit?
Once you send your guest post, the host will review and schedule it for publication. They’ll usually give you a publication date and may promote it on social media, tagging you if you share your handles.
- Make it easier on you host share your handles. I don’t know how many times I have had to search for handles so I could tag my guest author. It adds so much more time to the host.
Make sure to share the published post with your own audience for maximum reach!
- If you have a website, link back to your host. It helps you both with Google SEO
- Example: Check out my guest post How I Found Inspiration in a Cup of Coffee on SaltyInspirations.com.
Ready to Write Your Guest Post?
Writing your first guest post might feel like a leap, but it’s actually one of the easiest, most enjoyable ways to share your voice and grow your platform. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be you.
So take a deep breath, tell your story, and remember: every author was once a first-time guest poster, too.
Guest posting is a fantastic way to stretch your writing muscles and grow your fan base. Plus, it’s fun! Whether you want to share a writing tip, a heartfelt story, or a seasonal tradition, your words can find new readers who will love you.
Have questions or want feedback? Reach out anytime I’m here to help you shine.
Happy writing!
Keep Learning: More Tips for Indie Authors
Writing and Wellness: 5 Practical Tips
Avoid burnout and protect your creative energy with these simple wellness strategies designed just for authors.
5 Free Ways to Promote Your Books
Guest posting is just the beginning; here are five more zero-cost ways to get your books in front of more readers.
How to Write a Good Book Description (coming soon)
Your book blurb is often the first impression; learn how to write one that turns browsers into buyers.
Whether you’re just starting your guest posting journey or have a few under your belt, I hope this guide gave you the confidence to share your voice. Have you written a guest post before? What helped or surprised you? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments below!
“You don’t need to be perfect to be powerful—you just need to be brave enough to share your words.”— Unknown
As always, thanks for stopping by for some Salty Inspirations!
