... or why would you want to add "Author of ..." to your business credentials?
After all, writing a book takes a lot of work, right?
Set yourself apart from others in your field
Look at the burgeoning field of "consultants."
- Weddings
- Business
- Downsizing Your Life
- Style and Appearance
- Computer
- Landscape
- Green Energy Homes
- Marketing
... and so forth.
How is the average consumer or potential client supposed to decide on which consultant will be most qualified to help them in a challenging situation? What makes one stand apart from the others? Having written a book on your topic instantly boosts their level of respect for you as more-than-just-competent. (
Unfortunately, producing a book about building birdhouses won't work unless you do that professionally.)
Demonstrate your depth of knowledge
In your book, you'll probably explain how this or that works and how an expert can fix it. But you can be even more helpful!
First, tell them what to check and what possible remedies they can try, before bringing in a pro. (No, you haven't just lost a customer. You've built powerful good will for the future.)
Next, suggest how they should describe the problem to a professional "problem fixer." We laypeople usually won't know the technical name for that stubby gizmo in back.
And in a subtle way, you're telling your reader that you're so confident in your skill level, that you're willing to help them
before they throw up their hands.
Introductions
Whether written or spoken, introductions are a fact of life at meetings, in business, at charity luncheons, on the internet, and random other places. Of those being introduced, one has earned the title and author of ..." in addition to their primary profession.
* I've read public tributes in the obituary section that list "author of..." before doctor, research scientist, and other lofty positions. That person is beyond attracting new clients, but still ...
Publish Speaking
You can get further exposure by offering to give short presentations (paid or not) and serving on panels at public forums. Business authors are often invited to be among the experts.
And for all the hours of work that go into planning and writing a book, the outcome is incredibly gratifying! It's hard to describe how confident you really feel when you walk into a room holding your "baby" in your hand, but try closing your eyes and picturing yourself, book in hand, walking into a meeting, and feel that glorious flutter of excitement.
It happens one step,
one page,
one chapter at a time.
Once you have the framework in place, you're on your way ~
The Vendors Showcase will be a perfect time for them to schedule a time with me either for a FREE 30-minutes introductory phone call or a Free Coffee Chat in person.
