(Spoiler: It wasn’t the house that needed selling.)
Back in my younger days as a fresh-faced real estate agent, I thought I was onto something brilliant. I had just penned a masterpiece (well, maybe not a masterpiece, but I was proud of it) – a book about how homeowners could sell their houses without the need for an agent.
I affectionately called it my ” FSBO Door Buster.”
The basic premise was simple: if I could land an appointment with a FSBO (for sale by owner) homeowner frustrated by their inability to sell their house on their own, I’d send them a copy of my book, strike up a conversation over coffee, and voilà! I’d have a potential client.
My system worked like a charm until one fateful day when I knocked on a door that turned my world upside down.
That day, I stood confidently at the door, rehearsed lines ready to fire, and when she opened the door, I flashed what I thought was an engaging smile. “Hey, did you get a copy of my book?” I asked, leaning casually against the doorframe.
But the expression on her face was anything but welcoming. “It’s not a real book!” she shot back, crossing her arms dismissively.
The blinds practically rattled as my heart sank. I asked what she meant. She went on to explain, with what I can only assume was an exaggerated sense of importance, that she’d searched for me and my book on Amazon and there was no book by my name, which apparently, in her canny world, meant I was a fraud.
Side note: This was back when the only way to get on Amazon was to have a real publisher… they didn’t do self-published authors back then.
In that utterly deflating moment, I had an epiphany. No, not that I should quit real estate – rather, I learned what made a book a real book in the minds of everyday people.
The criteria were simple and clear:
First, it needed a professional cover (note to self: never skimp on design).
Second, it had to be great content, a reflection of my ideas, methods, etc..
Third – most importantly – it needed to be listed for sale on Amazon.
I realized that while I didn’t sell her house that day, that lady had unknowingly taught me the key components of a legitimate book.
So, despite her seemingly rude dismissal, I owe her a debt of gratitude.
That confrontation became a pivotal lesson, one that has served as the bedrock for my success in the real estate world and beyond. Funny how life sends its teachers in the most unexpected forms!
Bottom line: don’t think you need a big-time publisher to create a real book.
However, once you’ve got that brand spanking new book tucked under your arm and it’s listed for sale on Amazon… there’s more to do if you want to turn that book into the basis of a real business.
Now, how do we translate that book into a business?
Load Up Your Toolbox
Here’s your quick guide to building your “author toolbox” for maximum impact.
First, establish your Authority Website.
This is your digital home base. It showcases your expertise and makes it easy for potential readers or clients to find you. Ensure its professional, user-friendly, and reflects your voice, character, and brand. You want people to see you as the go-to source in your niche.
Second, use a Book Funnel to create a streamlined sales system.
This involves setting up an automated process that guides potential readers from awareness to purchase and then maximizes your profits on autopilot. By using the book as a way to offer maximum value to potential customers without you having to get involved in the sales process, you are on your way to a real business.
Third, don’t overlook the power of a Blog.
Regularly sharing valuable content helps establish your authority and keeps your audience engaged. This doesn’t just build your reputation; it also drives traffic to your website and increases your chances of converting visitors into readers.
Fourth, consider adding a Coaching Offer to your toolbox.
If you have expertise in a specific area, offer one-on-one coaching sessions. This lets you trade your time for top dollar, while also reinforcing your authority in your field. It’s a win-win: you earn income while helping others.
Fifth, for passive income, create a Backend Course.
This allows you to monetize your knowledge further without a significant time investment. After your initial work, your course can generate revenue on autopilot, giving you more freedom to focus on your writing. Plus, you can charge a LOT more for a course than you can for a book (and courses go hand in hand with coaching offers very nicely).
Sixth, leverage Social Media.
Choose the major platforms where your audience hangs out. Share insights, updates, and engage with your followers. This builds your tribe and promotes your work to a wider audience. Consistency is key – make sure to post regularly and interact with your followers.
By incorporating these elements, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.
Remember, building a solid author platform takes time and effort, but with all of these tools in your author toolbox, you’ll unlock opportunities that can transform your business.
Turn “Someday” Into Today
Always wanted to write a book but didn’t know where to start? We’ll take you from zero to published in less than two weeks.
Join the early bird notification list for the upcoming WriteYourBook.AI Challenge and be the first to get updates.
Leave a Reply