One of the greatest fears of new and emerging authors is that they’re unknown.
We often think that the only reason readers pick up books to purchase is because they know the writer and therefore know what to expect.
As you read that line, however, I’m sure you’re already thinking that it’s an obvious lie. But you’d be surprised at how this thought gets embedded in our minds and keeps us back from really getting our books out there.
These thoughts are closely related to “nobody wants to read my writing anyway” because they focus on us as writers and not on the content we’re producing. The idea that readers pick up books because of the people who write them often stems from the publicity that established writers like Stephen King and J. K. Rowling get over their books.
But when they got started they were unknown too. On top of that, J. K. Rowling famously got rejected by many publishing houses before Harry Potter made it to the hands of readers. It was the writing, the content of the book and how it appealed to readers, that got these authors noticed.
This is especially true for nonfiction writers who think that in order to get books sold they have to be an authority on the subject. The thing is, however, it’s actually the other way around.
In fact, it’s a well known fact in the business world that a book is going to get you noticed and established as an authority in your subject matter. And, it’ll bring in some cash too. Check any well-known guru in any field and you’ll notice they are authors. Some have one book, and most have several books. Most of them published their books early, as they were establishing themselves, and the books helped catapult them to the status they now enjoy.
There’s something about the printed word that gets people noticing you. These days, that extends to digital copies, as ebooks and audio-books are gaining popularity. When readers see things looking professional, they tend to pause and check it out.
You could be completely unknown, and when your book comes out everyone gets to know about you because of your book.
A brand isn’t necessary for publishing. In fact, it’s your book that will help you build your brand.
What causes readers to notice a book is the cover and the blurb. Walking past a shelf in a bookstore, a book stands out because of the cover. The colors, the layout, the font style and wording. These are the things which make a reader reach out and pick up a book. Then, the blurb on the back cover which gives a synopsis and entices the reader to continue reading is what makes them take the book to the cash register and make the purchase.
And when the content of your book gets the reader talking and sharing about how great the book was, that’s what’s going to get you continued attention and purchases.
The truth is that books don’t just sell themselves. Readers need to learn about the books through marketing and testimonials. Publishing a book is only one part of the process, then you need to get about showcasing the book and getting readers to purchase.
So don’t fall victim to the idea that you need to be well known in your genre, niche, or industry to think about writing a book. Write your book to become well known in your genre, niche, or industry.
Document your thoughts and share them with the world because someone out there needs to read what you’re sharing. Remember that.
And, as always, happy writing.
