Wattpad has become one of the most popular platforms for both writers and readers, offering a space where people can share and discover stories from around the world. Getting your work featured on Wattpad can greatly increase your visibility and readership, making it a dream for many aspiring authors.
Discover how you can get featured on the Wattpad app with our step-by-step guide. Unlock the secrets to gaining visibility and reaching a wider audience. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll take you through the process of increasing your chances of getting featured on the app.
Understand the Wattpad Algorithm and Criteria for Featured Stories
What Makes a Story Stand Out on Wattpad?
Before you can hope to get featured, it’s essential to understand how Wattpad’s algorithms and editorial teams determine which stories get placed on their main page, in curated lists, or in featured categories. The algorithm takes several factors into account:
- Engagement: Stories that receive more reads, votes, comments, and shares are more likely to be featured. Wattpad tracks these interactions to gauge the popularity of your story.
- Quality of Writing: Wattpad’s editorial team seeks stories with good storytelling, well-developed characters, and compelling narratives. While the platform allows self-publishing, a well-written story is more likely to gain traction.
- Consistency and Activity: Writers who update their stories regularly and engage with their readers through comments or social media tend to get more attention. Being an active and consistent writer can help boost your chances of getting featured.
Create High-Quality Content That Resonates with Your Audience
Focus on Good Writing
The first step to being featured is creating a compelling and well-written story. Here are some tips on how to ensure your story meets Wattpad’s standards:
- Engaging Opening: Your story’s first few paragraphs should hook the reader. Try to introduce the plot or characters in a way that leaves the reader wanting more.
- Strong Characters: Well-developed, relatable characters are key to a story’s success. Readers on Wattpad often connect deeply with the characters, so make sure they feel real and emotionally engaging.
- Compelling Plot: A captivating story plot is essential for keeping readers interested. Avoid clichés, and try to bring a unique angle to your genre, whether it’s romance, fantasy, mystery, or another category.
Edit and Proofread
Although Wattpad is a platform for amateur writers, quality matters; even if your story is well thought out, poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or clunky writing will turn readers off. Edit your work carefully before publishing. If needed, consider having someone else proofread it for you.
Build Your Readership and Engagement
Promote Your Story
Getting featured on Wattpad requires building an engaged readership. Here are a few ways you can grow your audience:
- Use Social Media: Share your Wattpad story on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Use relevant hashtags and connect with readers in similar genres.
- Join Wattpad Communities: Wattpad has a vibrant community of readers and writers. Join genre-specific communities, participate in discussions, and collaborate with other writers. The more active you are, the more likely you are to gain visibility.
- Respond to Comments: Show your readers that you appreciate their feedback by responding to comments. Engaging with your readers helps build a loyal following.
- Regular Updates: Publish new chapters regularly. Readers are more likely to return to stories that are consistently updated. Try to create a regular posting schedule that keeps readers coming back for more.
Request Reviews and Feedback
Asking readers to leave reviews and comments helps your story gain visibility. The more engagement your story gets, the more likely it is to be featured. Be proactive and encourage readers to leave feedback at the end of each chapter or on your profile page.
Optimize Your Story’s Metadata for Better Visibility
Effective Titles and Descriptions
A great title and a well-written description can make all the difference in attracting readers. Your title should be catchy but clear, reflecting the essence of your story. The description should summarize the plot without giving too much away, intriguing potential readers, and encouraging them to click on your story.
- Keywords: Use keywords in your description and tags that relate to your genre or theme. This helps the Wattpad algorithm categorize and recommend your story to the right audience.
- Cover Art: A visually appealing cover can make your story stand out. While Wattpad automatically generates a cover, you can upload a custom one to better represent your story. Make sure the design is professional and relates to the theme or tone of your story.
Leverage Wattpad’s Writing Contests and Events
Participate in Wattpad Contests
Wattpad hosts writing contests throughout the year, and entering one can increase your chances of getting noticed by the editorial team. Winning or even being shortlisted for a contest will increase the visibility of your story, and you may get featured as a result.
- Wattpad’s Writing Contests: There are various contests hosted by Wattpad, from specific genre contests to those for seasonal themes like Halloween or Christmas. These contests often feature winning stories on Wattpad’s homepage or in curated lists.
- Collaborative Writing: Some contests encourage collaboration with other writers. Working together can expand your audience and increase your chances of getting featured.
Engage with Wattpad’s Editorial Team
Submit to Wattpad’s Editorial Team
Writers who consistently create high-quality content might have the opportunity to have their story featured by Wattpad’s editorial team. If your story gets a substantial amount of engagement, Wattpad’s editorial staff may reach out to you for possible promotion or inclusion in the featured section.
- Reach Out: While there’s no official submission process, you can contact Wattpad’s editorial team through social media or email to showcase your best work.
- Be Patient: Editors review hundreds of submissions, so it may take some time for them to notice your story. Focus on creating high-quality work, engaging with readers, and participating in Wattpad’s contests to increase your chances of getting featured.
Be Consistent and Keep Improving
Stay Committed
Wattpad’s featured stories are often written by authors who have consistently published quality content. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get featured right away. Continue working on your craft and engaging with your audience. Over time, your readership will grow, and your chances of getting featured will increase.
Analyze Successful Stories
Take time to explore the stories that are featured on Wattpad. Analyze what works in these stories – the writing style, genre, and engagement levels. This can provide insight into what the editorial team looks for in a featured story and help you improve your writing.
Conclusion
Getting featured on Wattpad isn’t an overnight process, but with consistent effort, high-quality content, and strong engagement with your readers, it is achievable. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can improve your chances of having your story recognized and featured on the Wattpad app.
Discover the secrets to getting featured on the Wattpad app with this comprehensive step-by-step guide. Learn from the best on-demand app development company experts today! Focus on writing great stories, promoting your work, and engaging with the community, and soon, you may find yourself in the spotlight with thousands of new readers discovering your work.