Book Strategy

All excellent writing starts with a plan, but for book authors this plan is not just about the book itself; it is a larger strategy in which the book plays a part. As is often said, it's a lot easier to get somewhere if you know where you're going. For the author, it's more likely your book will perform correctly if you know what it's supposed to do for you.

For some authors, the book's role in the Big Plan is to increase their speaking fees. Sometimes the book is supposed to bring in new and bigger consulting clients. Often the book will help a freelance writer increase article fees or open doors for a regular, paid column. Until you know what your book is supposed to do--by itself and within the larger Plan--you won't know how to maximize the content of your book or strategically include aspects that will serve your larger plan.

No matter where you are in your book process, short of production, it is not too late to figure this out and make a course correction, even if it means a lot of rewriting, extra time and work. You don't get a do-over; if you miss your mark from lack of planning, then you've lost the opportunity.

Don't hesitate to stop, back up, re-think, and re-tool your book. If that little voice is saying you're rushing things, or you're not sure if you've got this book on track, now is the time to rethink. Your planning and your focus is the only way to get the book to do its job later--no one can do it for you if the book isn't lined up within your larger goals and strategy.

Have a think...

Laurie

www.authorbiz.com
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