Books: America’s New Business Card?
Few people I talk to consider themselves authors; fewer still ever picture themselves writing a book. Well, if you’re still undecided about whether a book can propel you to expert status in your field, consider a scene of two people who walk into your office each seeking your business. Each has impeccable credentials, is wearing a tailored suit, and has an impressive resume that sparkles with confidence and great talent.
One candidate hands you a glossy business card.
The second hands you his book.
Quickly: who just won your business?
You’re Already an Expert, Why Shouldn’t People Know That?
Let’s face it, in our business – in any business – success is all about perception. When we meet a book’s author, we immediately perceive that person to be an expert on whatever subject he or she is writing about. That author is far more impressive than the guy or gal who comes along without a book.
For someone to take the time to write about a topic, give it an impressive title and subtitle, organize it, review it, plan it and get it published, says much about a person. It says, “I am focused, clear, passionate and drive.” It says, “I am an expert in my field and, what’s more, I’m eager to share that expertise with all comers.” It reeks of credibility, expertise, influence, maturity, solidity and, above all, success. What’s more, it makes that person special and unique. It’s an impressive credential.
It will do the same for you. A book will also:
- Increase your visibility
- Bring new business
- Announce your presence
- Distill your thoughts
- Give you “portable expertise”
- Provide publicists tons of material
I tell you this because if you are ever to truly celebritize yourself, if you are truly to become an expert in your field and own the niche you’re in, you must begin to think about yourself not just as a celebrity but as an expert-turned-author-turned -celebrity. Books are central to the Celebritize Yourself process.
A book gives you instant cache. It ups your credibility factor. To stay competitive in today’s cutthroat world of would-be experts, a book is no longer a stand out – it’s a must-have. Name almost any expert you can think of – in any field – and you will find them listed on Amazon.com. And not just in the music or DVD sections, but under books. You’ll find thousands! Try it.
Business Card 2.0
You’ll see my point. Today’s book is yesterday’s business card. Or, perhaps, it’s today’s “Business Card 2.0,” an interactive, user-friendly, narrated tour through your expertise. It is an instant introduction to your thoughts, feelings, expertise, know-how, advice, wisdom, and personality, rolled into a neat 200-300 page package within a cover of credibility-boosting blurbs from respected peers and colleagues.
Add your snappy author’s photo, wrap it in a great title (and subtitle), create a slam-bang cover with your name on it and, presto-chango, you are now an author ready to compete on the same playing field as any other celebrity. Now, all you have to do is come up with that great idea for a bestselling book that can magnetize an endless stream of clients or customers.
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More From Marsha Friedman
Marsha Friedman launched EMS Incorporated in 1990. Her firm represents corporations and experts in a wide array of fields such as business, health, food, lifestyle, politics, finance, law, sports and entertainment. She consults individuals and businesses on a daily basis and is frequently asked to speak at conferences about how to harness the power of publicity. Outside of the office, she is also the founder of a non-profit organization called the Cherish the Children Foundation. In 1996 the White House recognized her charity which sets out to raise awareness of the plight of underprivileged and foster children.
Marsha
A book is an excellent way to stand out in the crowd. It is a great marketing tool. Everyone should read your book Celebritize Yourself. You do an excellent job of outlining each step to publish, promote and enjoy the success of a book.
Julia M Lindsey
Our Little Books
Little Books with a Big Message
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LikeJulia, thank you so much. I am glad you had a chance to read my book and thrilled that the essence of my message communicated to you. :)
Marsha
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LikeI do with my quick-read evergreen book, "Why ... THANK YOU! -- How to Have FUN Writing Fantastic Notes and More."
It's a great leave-behind, autographed naturally, that can be used year-round not only with the person I've met with, but also by others in the office or at home.
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LikeI have thought about doing a book for many of the reasons you've mentioned.
Having diverse business and professional interests, I'm not sure which thing would make a good book.
My focus is on the differences between the 21st Century and the 20th Century.
Perhaps the end of jobs and the increase in self-employment would be good.
John
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LikeThis is something that I've been seriously thinking about, but I've wondered whether I need to contact a publisher first, or should I just write a book and try to get it published afterwards?
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LikeThanks for the post, I think that much of the advantage of a book is what writing it will teach the author. Like writing a blog, it will make the author think through there values and ideas.
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