Spring Cleaning Your Author Platform
5 Essential Tasks to Keep Your Platform Current and Working for You
This weekend, I’m finally tackling my desk, office, and closets. It’s a welcome spring cleaning, and honestly… it feels good.
There’s something about spring that makes us want to reset. We open the windows, clear out what no longer serves us, and make space for what’s next. It’s not just about physical spaces—it’s a great time to apply that same mindset to your author platform.
Websites, bios, social media profiles, and even your lead magnets tend to get a little dusty over time. Things change. You grow. And if you haven’t looked at these pieces in a while, chances are, they don’t reflect where you are now or where you’re headed next.
In the same way neglecting a home eventually leads to clutter and grime, letting your author platform go without routine maintenance can result in errors, outdated links, and miscommunications that work against you. A seasonal refresh helps ensure everything is current, functional, and working in your favor.
Spring Platform Refresh Checklist
This is foundational work. Not everything needs a total overhaul, but if you haven’t touched these areas in six months or more, it’s time. A solid platform builds trust, improves visibility, and makes everything you’re doing more effective.
Update Your Headshot
Professional photographers often recommend a new photo every six months. That may not be realistic for most of us—but if your current profile picture is more than a couple years old, or no longer reflects how you show up in the world, it might be time for a refresh. A consistent, current headshot builds trust—especially if you're showing up for interviews, speaking events, or reader-facing Zoom calls. Be sure to replace your photo everywhere you show up online.Refresh Your Bio
Your bio should reflect what you're working on now, not what you were doing two years ago. Update it on:Your website
Amazon Author Central
GoodReads
BookBub
Social media bios (especially Instagram, LinkedIn, and X/Twitter)
Test and Update Your Links
If you use a link-in-bio tool or have multiple opt-ins on your website, now’s the time to make sure:Links are working
Old freebies are still relevant
You’re pointing people to what matters most right now
Review Your Email Welcome Sequence
If someone joins your list today, what kind of first impression are they getting? Read through your welcome emails and make sure they:Still reflect your voice and current goals
Highlight your most relevant work
Include accurate links and resources
Do a Quick Website Assessment
Your website is often the first stop for new readers, podcast hosts, or potential partners. Make sure it’s doing its job. Review:Is your content current and relevant?
Are all links working—especially to your books, newsletter sign-up, and media kit?
Is your email address visible or your contact form working properly?
Are your social media icons connected and pointing to the right places?
Your author platform isn’t something you build once and forget—it requires regular upkeep to stay relevant and effective. Make it a habit to review it twice a year, just like any other essential part of your business. A little routine maintenance now prevents bigger issues later and ensures you're always showing up with clarity, professionalism, and purpose.
Feeling like you need a break or maybe you’re just stuck? Schedule a free, 30-minute consultation today and let’s see if one of my coaching solutions can help you get back on track.
Lynn brings her more than 30-years experience in small business marketing, publishing, and multiple best-selling author campaigns to her Substack newsletter. She helps authors build and grow their platforms to reach their unique marketing goals through private coaching, non-fiction consulting, and done-for-you marketing programs. And all this, through her computer, in her little lake house in rural Pennsylvania which she shares with her husband, son, and two fluffy companions, Kaiju and Bella.