That dreaded email has landed: “While we found your concept compelling, we’re concerned your current platform isn’t large enough.” It stings, but it’s a common hurdle for nonfiction authors trying to get published. Don’t let it derail your publishing dreams. Instead, view this feedback as an opportunity.

Millions of books are published each year; and it takes more than strong writing, high-profile blurbers, or unique topic to sell them. Publishers are looking for a strong author platform to drive long-term sells and recoup their investment.

The following are steps to take—and they work for those in business for themselves or who were relying on a business to help promote their book:

Honestly assess your platform and create a growth plan. How active are you online? Do you offer paid services that complement the book idea, and do you have a mailing list to reach your followers if there’s change to your preferred social media platform (looking at you X, Twitter)? You should be:

1. Regularly posting valuable content, not just funny memes, to your blog, newsletter, or social media
2. Responding to comments, helping to foster community and genuine connections
3. Offering free resources in exchange for email sign-ups

You may choose to ignore that feedback and go elsewhere. You certainly can shop your proposal to other publishers, self-publish, or pursue a hybrid model. I’ve seen some authors try for literary agents and while I think a good agent is worth their weight in gold, they still rely on you to grow your platform. The better the platform, the better the deal.

Embrace the feedback and get to work.