✍️ Author Guide
Everything you need to build your authority, showcase your books, and connect with readers.
Setting Up Your Profile
Profile Essentials
- Profile Photo: Professional headshot, 400×400px minimum — upload a file or paste a URL
- Display Name: Your author name (pen name or real name)
- Username: Unique handle for your public URL (/authors/yourname)
- Bio: 300 characters for ShelfBuilder (free), unlimited for ShelfPro/Boss
- Topics: Up to 3 topics (Leadership, AI, Finance, etc.) — unlimited on paid tiers
- Social Links: LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Website
Plan Comparison
ShelfBuilder Free
1 book, 300-char bio, basic profile, gold badge
ShelfPro $29/mo
Unlimited books/bio, "My Offer" section, lead capture, analytics, gold badge
ShelfBoss (Diamond) $97/mo
Everything in Pro + Authority Talks speaker slot, Podcast feature, homepage spotlight, diamond badge
Managing Your Books
Adding a Book
- Go to your Dashboard → Books → "Add New Book"
- Upload a cover image (600×900px recommended, JPG/PNG)
- Enter title, description, category, and buy link
- Optional: Upload a PDF to enable reader borrowing
- Toggle "Grant Lending" to allow ShelfMember+ readers to borrow
Lead Generation & Offers
Available for ShelfPro and ShelfBoss only
"My Offer" Section
Add a custom call-to-action on your profile with a lead capture form. Perfect for free chapter downloads, email course signups, webinar registrations, or consultation bookings.
"Offers & Programs" Inquiries
Enable the inquiry form on your profile. Readers fill out their name, email, and message — you receive all inquiries directly in your Dashboard inbox.
Authority Talks & Podcast
Apply to Speak (ShelfBoss only)
ShelfBoss authors get a guaranteed speaker slot. Visit /events and click "Apply to Speak" to submit your topic and preferred dates.
Podcast Feature
ShelfBoss authors are featured in podcast episodes. After upgrading you'll receive a "Podcast Guest" badge and be contacted for scheduling.
Analytics & Insights
Available for ShelfPro and ShelfBoss
- Profile Views: How many people visited your author page
- Followers: Readers following you for updates
- Book Views: Individual book detail page visits
- Likes & Comments: Engagement on your books and profile
- Bookmarks: Readers saving your books for later
Best Practices
Complete Your Profile 100%
Photo, bio, topics, social links, and at least one book — complete profiles rank higher in search.
Use High-Quality Images
A professional headshot and polished book covers make a huge difference in reader trust.
Engage with Readers
Respond to comments, answer AMA questions, and be active in Authority Talks.
Choose Specific Topics
Use specific tags like "Sales Coaching" or "B2B Marketing" rather than broad ones like "Business".