How Do You Build Your Authority?

Finally, a business book worth reading!

Anna David | Image courtesy of annadavid.com

Review of ‘On Good Authority: 7 Steps to Prepare, Promote and Profit From a How-to Book That Makes You the Go-to Expert’ by Anna David

To my mind, there are two types of business book: those that are worth reading and those that aren’t. Most of them aren’t. This is one of the rare ones that is. Ironically, it’s about how to write a good business book. So I guess the proof is in the pudding.

Most business books are little more than a business card. Some started life as a talk or blog post and even more should have stayed that way. And although a book can be a great business card, it needs to be more than just an advert. Readers can smell that a mile off.

‘On Good Authority: 7 Steps to Prepare, Promote and Profit From a How-to Book That Makes You the Go-to Expert’ is a short and actionable guide to writing and publishing a how-to book that positions you as the go-to expert in your field.

It takes you through a seven-step process that helps you create a book to position you as an expert. By the time the reader has finished your book they should see working with you as a no-brainer. They should be going: “Here, take my money!”

What do you want to be known for? What have you overcome? Share that in a way that will help others to do the same.

Writing a business book takes time. If you’re going to do it you need to do it right. Share your expertise. Demonstrate your authority. Educate the reader. Help them solve a problem. Take them on a journey that leaves them in a place where it seems obvious that they should work with you. It’s not just a business book; it’s your business in book form.

Anna David is a New York Times bestselling author best known for her book Party Girl. She has written extensively about addiction and recovery, among other things, and her business Legacy Launch Pad Publishing helps business owners to write books that work.

On Good Authority will help you to build your authority, use your book as a platform, and grow your business. The book is easy to follow and packed with actionable advice. It will show you how to develop your book idea, conduct thorough research, structure your content, write compelling copy, and navigate the publishing landscape. It also delves into the art of self-promotion, with practical tips for how to build an audience, generate media attention, and leverage your book to attract more clients or customers.

I listened to the audiobook which was read by the author. This was a delight for me as an auditory learner. Anna David is smart, witty and engaging. I recommend listening to the audiobook first and then using the book for reference as you work through the process. If you have a more personal story to share then I also recommend checking out their previous book Make Your Mess Your Memoir. All good stuff.