While many authors strive to reach national or even global recognition for their work, the best place to start building awareness is in your local community, per Nelson Books Senior Marketing Director John Andrade. Not only can you establish personal relationships, but you can also test out various strategies such as speaking. He recommends approaching your local businesses and organizations and introducing yourself and your work. You can secure signings, speaking engagements, and more. The more you have face-to-face meetings and engagements, the stronger you'll be.
In addition, Andrade recommends attending writer's conferences and workshops to meet other writers and people in the industry. Having this comradery is a great way to feel supported.