How to Build a Business Around Your Book

Write a Book About Your Experience and Expertise

As an expert or professional in your field, you likely already have some experience with running a successful business. This gives you an advantage over many other new authors who publish under the constraints of being a “creative” type.

This certainly doesn’t mean that non-fiction authors are not creative. On the contrary, they tend to be some of the most innovative and resourceful people on the planet. Not to mention, they are rock stars when it comes to storytelling, which is an essential skill for any type of writer or author.

Of course, everyone comes from a different background both personally and professionally speaking. There is also more than one breed of success. Some non-fiction authors were first wildly successful self-made businesspeople, full of entrepreneurial spirit.

Then there is a large group of authors who have decades of experience working in a corporate setting, thriving off the challenges that come with it and working their way to the top of the ladder.

Chances are, you can relate to one of these two descriptions. You most likely identify with one more than the other, right?

So next comes the natural question that is probably on your mind at this point.

How do you build a business around your first book?

We’re going to cover some of the more significant ways to start building a business and a brand around your books.

It’s Your First Chapter, Not Your First Book

Take a moment to think of the most famous authors you can think of off the top of your head. It doesn’t matter what they write, just jot down the first few that come to mind.

Now, how many of the authors you wrote down only wrote and published a single book?

I’m willing to bet that the answer is zero.

It makes sense when you think about it. Authors write to earn a living and that means writing many books over the span of their career.

Now let’s take another look at that list.

Of all the authors who published more than one book, how many of them published several books within a series?

Probably more than half, right?

While you could try writing standalone books that are not related to the others you write, that’s not the smartest way to publish. Instead, find something that works extremely well and then build on it.

Your first book shouldn’t be thought of as your first book, but rather your first chapter. It should be strong enough to stand on its own in the event that sales are less than impressive and it doesn’t leave the mark you had hoped it would after it is released. However, leave it open enough to build upon in the event that it sells well and takes off. Continue the story that began with that book and you will have instant success when you publish the next book in your series.

A couple of noteworthy examples from the non-fiction genre include the educational series of “Dummies” books and even the “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” books (these are non-fiction too, and an example of storytelling at its finest!)

Decide How Serious You Actually Are

Some people want to spend the time and effort needed to build an entire brand using their books and their new role as an author. Others simply want to add the word author to their long list of other accomplishments.

It’s important to decide which end of the spectrum you fall on because it directly affects how you can build a business with the books you publish.

If you are focused on other projects and don’t have the time or energy left over to devote to growing your author brand, then you probably don’t expect it to be your main source of income. If, on the other hand, you are looking to shift your efforts and invest in a new business as an author then you are probably expecting it to be a significant source of income.

Obviously, different approaches are needed and before you can figure out which one is right for you it’s important to decide how seriously you take the title.

Believe in Your Book

This one might seem a little silly, but it makes a huge difference. If you just want to say that you’re a published author of a book that showcases your industry expertise, there is nothing wrong with that.

But ask yourself, does it tell your story while simultaneously showcasing that experience and talent?

The best book you can write or have written most definitely will.

When you believe in your story and the book you write to tell it, it makes a huge difference in how successful your books end up being. People can sense when a piece of work is genuine and putting your story out there to share with the world will bring you instant fans and loyal readers if you are sincere.

It also opens the door for speaking engagements about your book, because people love hearing inspirational stories and you will love telling them if they are real and you believe in them all the way.

Of course, building a business around your book involves a lot more than these things. What else should be on this list? How have you built a successful business with your books? Tell us in the comments.