Understanding Your Target Audience

Developmental editor Rebecca Hartwell collaborates with Authors’ Alcove in this self-editing guide for authors on how to identify your target audience when writing. Rebecca, founder of Hart Bound Editing [http://hartboundediting.com], collaborates with Agnes Wolfe, host and founder of Authors' Alcove [http://authorsalcove.com], where Rebecca breaks down how to self-edit your manuscript and make your good story great in the first episode of our 52-week Story Savvy series.

Aspiring writer Agnes Wolfe asks Rebecca important questions that will help others like herself learn how to pinpoint exactly who their readers are. Knowing your audience isn't just about marketing! It’s a critical part of storytelling that impacts tone, style, and narrative choices.

In this episode, we explore one of the most overlooked aspects of writing: knowing your audience. Who are you writing for? Why does it matter? And how can understanding your target reader improve your story?
Post in the comments any questions you hope we cover in future episodes of our Story Savvy series!

Questions Covered in This Episode

[00:00] Intro
[02:07] “How Soon Should I Define Who My Ideal Audience Is?”
[03:46] “How Does Understanding My Audience Impact My Story?”
[04:28] "How Specific Should I Be in Describing My Ideal Audience?"
[05:48] "How Can I Tell if My Story Is Middle Grade or Young Adult?"
[09:01] "Who Else Should I Consider Beyond My Main Reader?"
[10:37] "What Impact Does My Target Audience Have on My Writing Style?"
[13:17] "Should I Pay Attention to Current Trends When Writing?"
[15:22] "What Are the Risks of Not Knowing My Target Audience?"
[18:24] "How Can I Figure Out My Ideal Reader if I’m Stuck?"
[20:19] "Does Understanding My Audience Help Me Choose a Genre?"

Follow me on Patreon [http://patreon.com/authorsalcovepodcast]