Notes From That Cranky Editorial Guy (Issue #9)

  • August 19, 2024

Your Book Is Not Going to Earn Back Your Investment (But You Are)

When you write your nonfiction book, will you earn back your time and expenses and make a profit through the work's sales? In the overwhelming majority of cases, no, you won’t. So why do it?Many authors look for an ROI on the time spent writing their book and promoting it as well investments in sales venues and marketing for the work -- even perhaps hiring a publicist. They are inevitably disappointed when the sales and income from their books do not match their outlay. Remember this crucial fact: Your book is not the product, you are. Your book is actually your calling card. This means that your book helps elevate your platform and renown, garners you greater credibility and visibility, and helps you land writing, speaking, and consulting opportunities. Your book acts as a crucial part of your brand-building mechanism.

Don’t look for your book sales to earn back the expenses you put into it. The doors the book opens will ultimately serve to be your payday.

I'll say it again: The book is not the product, you are. The book is your calling card.


Jeevan Caricature
Crankily yours,
Jeevan
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