Platform--what exactly is that? why do i need one?

http://janefriedman.com/2012/03/13/author-platform-definition/

What platform is NOT

• It is not about self-promotion.
• It is not about hard selling.
• It is not about annoying people.
• It is not about being an extrovert.
• It is not about your qualifications, authority, or experience, although these are tools for growing or nurturing a platform.
• It is not something you create overnight.
• It is not something you can buy.
• It is not a one-time event.

• It is not more important than your story or message (but hopefully it grows out of that).

click the link above to see what it is....