Happy New Year? It’s Your Call

By Michael Drew - Jan 02 , 2008

Will 2008 be a Career Year for you? Did you resolve to build a platform the size of Texas, market your plan across the globe, or publish a bestseller? I ask because technology has me convinced that it is truly up to you.

The Internet is running amok, shattering book industry tenets faster than the steroid mongrels are shattering baseball records. Worldwide book tours are taking place from the comfort of home. Publishers are publishing authors they’ve never even met. First-time authors are self-publishing their way onto bookstore shelves.

Congratulations, fellow bookworms! You have officially been empowered!

So what will you do now that the (virtual) world is your oyster? Are you ready to reach in and grab your pearl? If so, here are a handful of resolutions (in no particular order) that you should consider making immediately, if not sooner:

1. Build a Website. They’re the business cards of the 21st century, and by not having one, you’re broadcasting to the world that you are behind the times. Millions of readers surf the “Net” every day, actively seeking out breaking waves of information and entertainment. Do you want to be the one to provide it, or would you rather it be someone else?

2. Start a Blog. Yes, I think the word sounds silly, too, but there’s nothing silly about seizing the opportunity to communicate via the most efficient word-of-mouth device in existence today. Show up with something valuable to say, and you’ll exchange more links than a Bob Evans grill cook.

3. Create a Gravity Well. If you’re not familiar with the concept, picture a tornado funnel lined with a descending staircase that wraps around and winds down. With each step, a person is pulled deeper into your world before finally arriving at your ultimate point of conversion. For example, a website visit that leads to a newsletter subscription that leads to a seminar attendance that leads to a book purchase.

4. Be Real. Plastic-coated phoniness is out. Consumers have been gorged on hype for so long that they’ve become ravenous for substance. Don’t hide behind hollow promises and regurgitated mission statements—give them what they want. You won’t believe how attractive your naked vulnerability is to today’s generation.

5. Have Fun. Need I say more?

Hey, it’s your world. The rest of us are just livin’ in it. Have a Happy Career Year.

Questions about how to use technology to build a platform may be directed to Michael R. Drew at the Austin, Texas, headquarters of Promote A Book: 512-858-0040. You can also contact Michael via email at michael@promoteabook.com.