Defining your genre and audience as a writer

In my checklist – 10 steps to plan your novel – the first step is to define your genre and audience. If you’re anything like me, that was NOT the first thing I did when I started writing!

So, why is it necessary?

Well, I think it’s important to know who your reader is. Who are you writing for? In my case, I wrote a cozy mystery (genre) that is for women in their mid-40s and up (audience). Women who had raised their kids: empty nesters.

Embarking on a creative endeavor like writing is a thrilling yet challenging journey. Understanding and defining your genre and audience is one key compass that guides your way through this creative landscape. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of pinpointing your niche and target audience, offering insights into how this clarity can elevate your work and resonate with the right audience.

Defining your genre

According to StoryGrid: Genre is a label that tells readers what to expect from stories. If you pick up a mystery you expect it to follow a certain order. Same with a romance, sci fi, fantasy, etc. I discuss this more in this blog post.

Steps to defining your genre:

1. Explore what you love: What do you love to read? Whether it’s the pulse-pounding excitement of a thriller, the heartwarming stories of romance, or the mind-bending possibilities of science fiction, identify the genre that resonates with you. Your enthusiasm for the genre will fuel your dedication and commitment and keep you writing when you want to quit.
2. Study the experts: Immerse yourself in works from established writers within your chosen genre. Analyze what makes their novels stand out, noting common themes, tropes, and stylistic elements. This exploration will deepen your understanding of the genre and inspire your unique approach. You’ll begin to see the rhythm of the genre.
3. Be open to blending genres: Genres need not be rigid boundaries. Be open to blending elements from different genres, creating a unique blend that defines your artistic voice and skill. After all, some of the most groundbreaking works emerged from the cross-pollination of genres.

Defining your audience:

Come up with a detailed picture of your ideal audience. Consider demographics such as age, gender, location, and occupation, but also delve into psychographics—values, interests, and lifestyle. This understanding will help tailor your content to resonate deeply with your audience.

Meet with and interact with existing communities related to your genre. Whether through social media, forums, or events, participate in conversations, listen to feedback, and understand the needs and preferences of your potential audience. This direct interaction can provide invaluable insights. **If you are not part of the audience you write for, you must do this!!

Start writing and make sure you understand your audience. Pay attention to what works and what doesn’t, and be willing to adapt your approach based on the data and responses you receive.

At the intersection of genre and audience:

With a clear understanding of your genre and audience, you can tailor your content (genre) to speak directly to the desires and preferences of your target audience. This targeted approach increases the likelihood of connecting with your audience and fosters loyalty.

The intersection of your genre and audience defines your unique space in the creative landscape – brand identity. Developing a brand identity that reflects this intersection makes your work easily recognizable and memorable.

In conclusion:

Defining your genre and audience serves as a compass – it guides your creative decisions and connects your work with the right audience. Exploring your passions, engaging with your community, and crafting/writing content that resonates at the intersection of your chosen genre and the hearts of your audience makes you a better writer.

Remember, in the dance between creator and audience, clarity is the rhythm that transforms a creative endeavor into a harmonious masterpiece.

Read A Guide to Setting SMART Goals for Writers, then follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to my newsletter to keep up with news about my book and any special offers! Be sure you grab your FREE 10-step checklist to plan your novel when you subscribe!

Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married for over 37 years, have 5 amazing kids and 3 adorable grandkids. I homeschooled our three youngest children, and I used to blog about homeschooling. I also taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! My first cozy mystery – Birds Alive! – releases Feb. 27, 2024/available for preorder NOW!

When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)