Effective marketing in the Subscription Economy requires a shift in mindset. Make the commitment to do things differently. I have a subscription or membership component to my business, even if the subscription isn’t part of the actual revenue model. I recognize that relationships are the most important competitive differentiator my business can have. I’m building […]
The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan [A Book Review]
Short Version The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan by Stephanie Chandler and Karl W. Palachuk is a comprehensive guide to publishing a nonfiction book, filled with great advice for indie authors. This is now my go-to book to recommend to new and aspiring nonfiction authors. Long version When I decided to self-publish my first book in […]
Using ProWritingAid [A Software Review]
ProWritingAid Review: Short Version ProWritingAid bills itself as “a grammar guru, style editor, and writing mentor in one package.” Although it lacks the intelligence of a human editor, it’s darned good at finding weak spots and opportunities to strengthen your writing. It can certainly help you polish your prose. Long Version Software is a mixed blessing […]
Review of Sandra Beckwith’s Book Marketing 101 Course
Short Version Sandra Beckwith’s Book Marketing 101 for Nonfiction course is a valuable survey of marketing techniques, anchored by a strong marketing plan. Its advice applies to both traditionally published and indie authors. (Fiction writers should examine the companion course, Book Marketing 101 for Fiction.) Long Version In a college curriculum, classes numbered 101 are […]
Grit for Writers by Tamar Sloan [A Book Review]
Short Version Grit for Writers by Tamar Sloan is a guide to cultivating your most important attribute as a writer: grit. If you find yourself discouraged, flagging, or in doubt, you’ll find support and solid advice here. Long Version Success in writing is a long game. It takes time to build the skills, bulk up […]
Don’t Wait for an Original Idea to Write
Everyone wants to write something original. But that desire can keep us silent. Don’t let that happen to you. When talking with people who want to write a book, I sometimes hear the following worry: I have nothing compelling or original to say. This belief is based on two unfounded assumptions: There’s no point in […]