Whether you’re a business owner or a consultant, as a professional it might be a good idea to consider writing a book. I’m talking about nonfiction books of course — ones that have the potential to help you in your business. Having recently finished the first draft of my own first nonfiction book (The Query-Free Freelancer), I want to share some of the reasons for the decision and how writing a book might help you too.
Here are four reasons professionals like you should consider writing and publishing a book.
A Book Sets You Apart From the Competition.
When you write a book, that book showcases your expertise. It’s an accomplishment many of your competitors probably haven’t reached yet. When you’re a published author of a well-received book, you become a recognized authority source. That makes you stand out.
Books Can Help You Land Media Coverage
If your business itself isn’t regularly covered by the media, that might change when you publish a book. If you write about an in-demand topic or something timely, you might be able to run a media tour and land interviews that otherwise would never have come. And that publicity helps both you and your business.
Books Can Help You Secure Speaking Engagements
Speaking engagements can be another opportunity for reaching a broader audience and building a reputation in your industry for you and your business. Having a book under your belt can make you a more attractive prospect when organizations are looking for speakers. You also get a double whammy benefit if you can sell books at the speaking engagement, sending people home with a copy of your book that keeps you fresh in their minds for a longer period of time.
Books Can Bring in Additional Income
While it might not be your primary motivation for writing a book, an additional income stream never hurts. You can earn direct sales if you self publish your book or you’ll earn royalties if you work with a traditional publisher.
Books have business benefits you might not have considered before. But think about it. Would a book set you apart and help you expand your visibility significantly? Then consider publishing. If you aren’t able to write the book yourself, you can always hire a ghostwriter, co-author, or an editor to help you develop a salable product.
