October Employee Spotlight: Myles Schrag, Senior Production Editor
(Posted on Saturday, October 7, 2023)
At Amplify Publishing Group, our unwavering dedication to achieving the highest standards of quality is exemplified by our proficient and committed team, who collaborate seamlessly across every aspect of our organization to bring remarkable books to life.
In this month’s featured profile, we are delighted to introduce Myles Schrag, our esteemed Senior Production Editor. With a rich background spanning over two decades in writing and editing, Myles possesses a remarkable talent for assisting individuals in sharing their stories and crafting books that have the power to inspire transformation.
We are grateful to have Myles as an integral part of the APG team, and we invite you to learn more about him below.
Describe your role at Amplify Publishing Group.
Myles: The boring way to say it is: I manage the production process for my authors. The more exciting and accurate explanation is that I collaborate with my authors and the APG team to make sure we have the best possible product to show the world when we complete the production process.
What’s one thing that surprised you about your position?
Myles: I’ve been in book publishing for 23 years, but the bulk of that has been editorial and acquisitions work—conceptualizing, developing, and refining content. The number of details required to complete any given book and then to promote and distribute it effectively is astounding. It requires a professional, problem-solving team on all fronts, and fortunately we have that at APG.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Myles: Anytime I open that package with the actual physical book I helped an author create, I feel proud because I know all the decisions, hurdles, and brainstorms it took to get us to the place we believed in. I am grateful to be in this industry.
What are you currently reading?
Myles: My partner and I are slow-reading Nixon and Dovey: The Legend Returns whenever we’re on road trips. The novel is by her uncle, Jay W. Curry, and set in early 19th century North Carolina. It’s based on true accounts of his ancestor, Nixon Curry, who was one of the most notorious criminals in early U.S. history. It’s a compelling and well-researched read.
What is something you’ve learned in the last week?
Myles: I didn’t know the precise definition of enclave, which is a country entirely enclosed within another country. I discovered this by talking to somebody who had been in the Peace Corps in Lesotho, which is one of only three countries in the world that are true enclaves. Do you know the other two? Neither did I. They are San Marino and the Vatican City. As someone who loves maps, this gap in my knowledge was humbling.
Describe one of your favorite APG memories.
Myles: I just returned from Paul Epstein’s Better Decisions Faster book launch at a SoFi Stadium suite before an Ed Sheeran concert. Talk about epic! I challenge all APG authors to beat that. Well done, Paul. #WinMonday
August Employee Spotlight: Will Wolfslau, Editorial Director
(Posted on Saturday, August 26, 2023)
At Amplify Publishing Group, our commitment to excellence is epitomized by our dedicated and skilled team, working seamlessly across all facets of our organization to give life to exceptional books.
In this month’s spotlight, we proudly introduce Will Wolfslau, our remarkable Editorial Director. Boasting an impressive career journey through renowned institutions such as Gotham Ghostwriters, Penguin Random House, and Farrar, Straus and Giroux, Will brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to both our team and the authors we serve.
We are grateful to have Will as a member of APG and look forward to having you get to know him better below.
Describe your role at Amplify Publishing Group.
Will: As editorial director, I work with prospective authors to hone their book concept and develop their publishing plan. Some authors come to us with a manuscript more-or-less ready to print; with others, we develop their idea through a months-long collaboration.
What’s one thing that surprised you about your position?
Will: A big part of my role is educating people about the publishing industry and the economics of selling books. But I’m continually surprised and delighted to see how book-savvy many of our authors already are.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Will: For anyone in publishing, the ultimate satisfaction is seeing finished copies of a book that’s been months or even years in the making. I only joined the team a few months ago, so I’m eagerly awaiting the publication dates of the first authors I’ve worked with here.
What are you currently reading?
Will: I just finished James Clear’s Atomic Habits, which is terrific! I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many concrete, actionable tools and techniques in one book.
What is something you’ve learned in the last week?
Will: I’ve learned how to change a diaper while a child is upright and moving away from you. (My daughter is learning to walk and will no longer countenance the changing table.)
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Will: Don’t focus on what you need but on how you can serve others. It sounds like an exercise in self-sacrifice, but when you’re truly helpful to others – your clients, your boss, your colleagues – you quickly become invaluable to them.
July Employee Spotlight: Emily Willett, Administrative Assistant
(Posted on Monday, June 19, 2023)
At Amplify Publishing Group, we pride ourselves on having a dedicated and talented team working behind the scenes to support our operations. Today, we spotlight Emily Willett, our exceptional administrative assistant. With her attention to detail and passion for the publishing industry, Emily plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of our office and bookkeeping department. Get to know the heart and soul of Amplify Publishing Group as we introduce you to Emily Willett, a driving force behind our daily operations.
Describe your role at Amplify Publishing Group.
Emily: I assist with the day-to-day operations of the office and, more specifically, the bookkeeping department. If you’ve ever called our main phone line, you’ve likely spoken to me!
What’s one thing that surprised you about your position?
Emily: The variety of authors that we publish. We work with people from so many different places who all have unique perspectives and stories to share.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Emily: I’ve become familiar with a variety of new systems, programs, and publishing processes since I first joined APG. It’s cool to be behind the scenes and learn more about the ins and outs of the industry.
What are you currently reading?
Emily: Emily of New Moon by L.M. Montgomery. This is the first book in the series and came out more than a decade after Anne of Green Gables.
What is something you’ve learned in the last week?
Emily: I learned there was an Indiana Jones TV show that dropped in the ’90s. It was recently added to Disney+, and it’s now on my watchlist.
What movie have you seen the most?
Emily: Galaxy Quest—it’s my favorite movie.
How to Get the Media to Promote Your Book: Proven Strategies to Capture Media Attention and Skyrocket Your Book’s Visibility
(Posted on Saturday, June 17, 2023)
Author: Eric Schurenberg, Amplify Publishing Group Editor-in-Chief, Former CEO of Inc. and FastCompany
Congratulations! Your book is now all but finished—the manuscript has been approved, edited, and sent off to the printer. But you’re not done yet.
Now you have to make sure the world knows your baby is born, soon to be ready to be read. The best way to spread the word beyond your own network is through the media—the complex, ever-evolving, multiheaded ecosystem of traditional journalists, podcasters, newsletter writers, bloggers, and influencers. Their reach can not only help build your book’s sales but also raise your profile. The book you created can open many doors for you as a thought leader, but it won’t do so if no one has read it. And it won’t be read if no one knows it’s out there.
Your book publisher may undertake some publicity for you, and you can always hire an independent publicity firm. But be realistic. The overstretched publicity staff inside a traditional publisher must promote many books besides yours—some of them by celebrity authors who will always get the lion’s share of attention. The in-house publicist’s first goal is to maintain their relationship with bookers and editors at media outlets, not promote your book.
Publicity firms can give you more attention, but they are expensive. You should expect to pay between $5,000 and $10,000 per month. And they cannot work miracles. You’re likely to find that even professionals have a hard time rising above the flood of books swamping media inboxes each month. To put the maximum effort into publicizing your book, you will need to wade into publicizing yourself in tandem with that of your publisher or hired PR firm.
Now, that may sound quixotic. How can you have any effect when you are new to the field and don’t have a contact list full of media stars? Well, you’re probably not going to get yourself booked on Today or reviewed in the Washington Post right out of the gate. There is simply too much competition. Steve Levingston, the Post’s longtime non-fiction book editor, has just half a dozen book review slots a week and estimates that he gets 100 pitches a day from authors and publicists seeking reviews. But if you start at a realistic level—building a foundation among smaller media outfits, practicing your pitch, and building towards your ideal outlet—you might just do better than you expect.
Start by creating a press list that hits your target audience where they get their information
You almost certainly know your audience better than any publicist, and you have the clearest idea of where they get their media. Focus on those outlets. This will help you narrow down the number of options and find the outlets best suited to cover you. If you’re not sure, consider books that compete with yours: Where were they reviewed or otherwise covered? Find out the names of the editors or producers responsible for assigning or scheduling that coverage. Don’t limit yourself to just one platform, such as only print or only podcasts. The odds are that your audience gets its information on lots of different platforms. Explore them all.
Before pitching anyone in media, get to know them
Once you’ve identified the decision-maker you want to pitch, study their work. Do your best to understand what interests their audience and construct your pitch accordingly. In the introductory paragraph of your email, let them know that you appreciate their work and clearly explain how your book relates to their interests and/or beat and why it would be of interest to their readers or viewers.
Craft a pitch that helps you stand out
Remember that everyone in this communication chain is pressed for time, including you. So get to the point quickly. It helps to create a core pitch that you can customize for each different outlet but that you don’t have to recreate each time.
Before you put a finger to your keyboard, ask yourself the following questions:
- What might inspire this journalist?
- What makes my book or message topical?
- How do I stand apart?
- What problem do I or my book solve?
- What do I want to happen after I send this email?
Open your email by explaining why you’re reaching out and letting your contact know that you follow their work and understand their audience. But keep it short. Then, offer a brief overview of your book, emphasizing why it’s especially newsworthy and why it holds special meaning for your contact’s audience and your contact in particular (if you can).
Be sure to give reasons why you, as an author, are worth paying attention to. The reasons could include your professional credentials, past press you’ve received, the size of your social media following, the endorsements your book has received, or any combination of the above.
Close with an ask that
a) they are likely to be able to grant and
b) helps them do their job.
At my former shop at Fast Company, for example, one editor was responsible for assigning stories relating to design, another for content related to social impact, and yet another managed non-journalist authors who contributed articles under their own byline. All three of them are barraged by publicists seeking attention. You’ll have a much better chance of being heard over the noise if you pitch your book on design thinking to Design Editor Suzanne LaBarre rather than to Social Impact Editor Morgan Clendaniel or to Editor-in-Chief Brendan Vaughan. Even if they don’t take you up on your pitch, they will appreciate that you took the time to avoid wasting theirs.
Follow up regularly, but not too regularly
Wait at least a week, if not two, before following up on any email you send. Be aware that it’s not unusual for a journalist to take several days or weeks to respond and, in many cases, not to respond at all. Don’t be discouraged. Instead, be thoughtful and professional when following up—try waiting until you have an update or new information to share with the journalist.
If you’ve followed up with someone a few times without a response, it’s time to move on to the next opportunity. You can always return to this same contact later if you have any game-changing developments to share.
Accept graciously when someone declines to work with you. You have everything to gain by keeping the relationship positive. For example, you can bounce back by pitching yourself as a subject-matter expert who can give commentary on a specific topic on the journalists’ beat. That kind of mention gets your name in print and gives you the chance to request your book and the purchase link included in the article. In many publications, you can propose contributing a column. Online publications are particularly fond of listicles—for example, “5 Ways to Engage Remote Employees” or “Top 10 Pieces of Advice for New Bosses.”
Consider offering giveaways, especially to radio, podcasts, and influencers. Giveaways garner interest in your book and have the added value of generating possible consumer reviews if the readers post on Goodreads or Amazon.
Play the long game.
Think of media coverage and the pitching process like pyramids. You need a strong, wide foundation in order to effectively build up to one great point at the very top. Start by pitching smaller outlets that make sense for your target audience. Outlets like local newspapers and niche podcasts can be great for this purpose. They can help establish you as a credible source of content and provide some social proof to journalists up the food chain. Plus, it allows you to practice being interviewed about your book with relatively low stakes.
Once you feel you’ve built a sufficient foundation, transition into midsized media, like regional newspapers, local TV programs, and other reputable outlets that stop short of being household names. After checking that box, you’re ready to go after the most competitive outlets, like major newspapers, popular podcasts, and primetime news programs.
Finally, remember that there are many ways, besides sales, to define your book’s success. The act of writing was no doubt a powerful way to crystallize the ideas you wanted to bring to light, and your book now serves as persuasive confirmation that you have something of value to say. But a book is likely to be just one element in a thought leadership portfolio that includes speaking, consulting, and board memberships. Maintaining a healthy relationship with the media can help on all those fronts.
In other words, remember that you are pitching the media, not just your book. You are also pitching yourself. So take the time to learn what makes each journalist or media outlook tick, and do your best to be helpful to them—as you would any client. Be courteous, persistent, empathetic, and, above all, patient, and you’ll see results.
Eric Schurenberg is Amplify Publishing Group’s editor-in-chief and a media executive, award-winning journalist, and the former CEO of Mansueto Ventures, the owner of Inc. and Fast Company media properties.
Amplify Publishing Group Welcomes Mel Robbins to Board of Directors
(Posted on Monday, June 12, 2023)
We’re thrilled to share some incredible news with our community of authors, readers, partners, and supporters: Mel Robbins has joined Amplify Publishing Group’s board. As a hybrid publisher committed to empowering authors and revolutionizing the industry, we couldn’t be more honored to have Mel join our executive leadership. Her remarkable achievements as a podcast host, bestselling author, self-publishing phenom, and expert in mindset and behavior change make her a valuable asset to our organization. With Mel’s unique insights and expertise, we’re confident Amplify Publishing Group will reach even greater heights in supporting our authors and delivering exceptional content to readers worldwide.
“Amplify is the leader in disrupting the traditional publishing business model, and I’m here for it! I love our mission of empowering authors to own and control their intellectual property while still leveraging traditional retail distribution. I am excited to align with an organization that upholds my own values as a thought leader, entrepreneur, podcast host, and innovative author.”
—Mel Robbins, host of The Mel Robbins Podcast and New York Times bestselling author with millions of books sold
A World-Renowned Expert, Accomplished Author, and Entrepreneur
Mel Robbins’s name resonates across the globe, and we’re privileged to have her on board. Her widely acclaimed podcast, The Mel Robbins Podcast, has captured the hearts and minds of millions of listeners, and we are truly humbled to have the opportunity to collaborate with a trusted authority on personal development and self-improvement. Mel’s expertise in mindset and behavior change has made a profound impact on individuals worldwide, and we are excited to leverage her knowledge and experience to further enhance our books and offerings.
Beyond her podcasting success, Mel is a New York Times bestselling author whose books have transformed the lives of countless readers, guiding them on a path toward personal growth and fulfillment. We admire Mel’s ability to connect with and motivate her audiences through various mediums, as evidenced by her millions of books sold worldwide, seven #1 audiobooks on Audible, and the billions of views her videos have garnered.
Empowering Authors with Amplify Publishing Group
At Amplify Publishing Group, we are dedicated to empowering authors and supporting their creative endeavors. We believe that authors should retain ownership and control over their intellectual property while benefiting from traditional retail distribution. Mel’s passion for empowering others aligns perfectly with our core values. Her extensive experience as a thought leader, entrepreneur, podcast host, and innovative author will undoubtedly strengthen our mission to revolutionize the publishing industry.
A Promising Future
We’re thrilled to have Mel join our executive leadership team at Amplify Publishing Group. Her appointment to our board reinforces our commitment to excellence, innovation, and author success. With Mel alongside Amplify CEO Naren Aryal, chairman and New York Times bestselling author Josh Linkner, and editor-in-chief and former CEO of Inc. and Fast Company Eric Schurenberg, we’re confident that we have an exceptional group of leaders guiding us. We’re excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead and believe that Amplify Publishing Group will continue to lead the way in the ever-evolving publishing landscape with Mel’s invaluable support.
Join Us in Welcoming Mel Robbins
On behalf of the entire Amplify Publishing Group team, we invite you to join us in extending a warm welcome to Mel Robbins. Together, we are poised to shape the future of publishing, provide unparalleled support to authors, and deliver exceptional content to readers across the globe.
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About Mel Robbins
Mel Robbins is the host of one of the top-ranked podcasts in the world, a New York Times bestselling author, and a trusted expert in mindset and behavior change. She has seven #1 audiobooks on Audible, millions of books sold, billions of views of her videos, and her globally renowned The Mel Robbins Podcast is syndicated in 194 countries.
About Amplify Publishing Group
Amplify Publishing Group is a leading independent hybrid publisher dedicated to amplifying voices, elevating brands, and supporting ideas that change minds and shape conversations. APG has over twenty years of experience acquiring, producing, marketing, and distributing books, and is home to six imprints, including #AmplifyPublishing and #RealClearPublishing.
May Employee Spotlight: Meet Heather Orlando-Jerabek, Senior Marketing and Publicity Manager
(Posted on Sunday, May 14, 2023)
At Amplify Publishing Group, we believe that behind every successful book is a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure its visibility and success. Today, we are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Heather Orlando-Jerabek, our Senior Marketing and Publicity Manager, who plays a vital role in making our authors’ voices heard.
Heather’s role at Amplify revolves around marketing and public relations, where she utilizes her expertise to ensure that each book receives the attention it deserves.
We are grateful to have Heather on Team APG and invite you to learn more about her below:
Describe your role at Amplify Publishing Group
Heather: I’m in marketing and PR, so my job is to make sure that a book is visible. I work to secure media coverage, book events, create advertisements, websites, and other marketing assets. I work with graphic designers, production, and acquisitions to make sure the last stage of an author’s publication process goes smoothly.
What’s one thing that surprised you about your position?
Heather: Something I love about this job is how each title is different and it takes a lot of creativity and problem-solving. So I’m constantly being surprised and challenged—things are always changing and evolving.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Heather: I would have to say getting a book placed in a large publication is always a triumphant moment. But the biggest reward is probably an author’s reaction to the news that their book is a bestseller.
What are you currently reading?
Heather: I am currently reading this incredible literary fiction title called White on White by Aysegu Savas. I’m also listening to the audio version of Outlive by Bill Gifford. I recommend both!
What is something you’ve learned in the last week?
Heather: Don’t ask me how this came up in conversation, but I recently heard that Alfred Hitchcock was terrified of eggs.
What is the #1 item on your bucket list?
Heather: Visiting every single continent—I’m almost there. I just have to go to Antarctica and Australia/Oceania.
April Employee Spotlight: Caitlin Smith, Senior Graphic Designer
(Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2023)
We are excited to spotlight Caitlin Smith, our Senior Graphic Designer hailing from Roanoke, Virginia.
Caitlin is a proud overachiever and a firm believer in the transformative power of good design. She first fell in love with print media and letterforms during a college typography course, which gave her the opportunity to design her very first book.
The experience changed her life and would (eventually) lead her to Amplify Publishing Group, where she gets to put that same passion to use every day.
We feel fortunate to have Caitlin on our Amplify team, bringing with her exceptional design abilities, enthusiasm, and motivation. We invite you to learn more about her below.
Describe your role at Amplify Publishing Group
Caitlin: As Senior Graphic Designer, I spend my time bouncing back and forth across the production process: mocking up book covers, typesetting and laying out interiors, reviewing proofs, and creating marketing materials. There’s of course a lot of creativity involved, but strong technical and communication skills are also needed to create quality products that reflect each author’s vision.
What’s one thing that surprised you about your position?
Caitlin: Every project is a new and exciting challenge, and I love the variety of subject matter that I get to work with. No two books are the same, and finding the right solution for the problem at hand is what the job is all about.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Caitlin: Getting a book to the finish line (aka the printer) always feels like a triumph.
What are you currently reading?
Caitlin: I’ve been listening to the audiobook for I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy. I grew up watching her on TV, and learning about what her life was like as a child actress has been fascinating (and depressing). It’s the kind of book that makes you appreciate having a quiet life.
What is something you’ve learned in the last week?
Caitlin: At a high enough temperature and with a steady stream of fresh ingredients, the same pot of soup can be kept cooking for years. It’s called perpetual stew, and it’s been around for centuries!
What is the #1 item on your bucket list?
Caitlin: I’ve wanted to see the Northern Lights for a long time! I went to Iceland once in hopes of catching them, but unfortunately, the weather didn’t pan out, though there was plenty of beautiful scenery to make up for it. The next time I make an attempt, I think it’ll be in Norway.
5 Benefits of Collaborating with a Ghostwriter to Bring Your Book to Life
(Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2023)
Ghostwriters are incredibly valuable resources for authors who want to share their ideas, stories, or expertise with the world but don’t have the time or inclination to write a book themselves. At Amplify, we employ a meticulous interviewing process to align our authors with skilled ghostwriters who prioritize our client’s vision, objectives, and tone.
If you’re weighing the pros and cons of hiring a ghostwriter to carry the writing lift on your book, here are five crucial benefits that hiring a ghostwriter brings to the table:
- Expertise: You might be the leading authority in your field and an excellent communicator, but putting expertise on paper isn’t as easy as it might seem. Ghostwriters are professionals who specialize in crafting compelling content and communicating complex ideas—skills that are crucial when writing long-form content like a book.
- Efficiency: Writing a book takes time, which is a precious commodity for thought leaders. Even if you have the ability and interest to write your book, your schedule might not allow it. A ghostwriter will handle the writing process from start to finish, allowing your book idea to come to fruition significantly faster than it otherwise might have.
- Objectivity: A ghostwriter can provide a fresh perspective and help you see your ideas in a new light. With the benefit of their expertise and point of view, your manuscript will end up more well-rounded, balanced, and accurate.
- Confidentiality: Ghostwriters usually operate under a confidentiality agreement, which means they won’t disclose their involvement in the writing process unless you want them to. This can be important for thought leaders who want to keep their writing process private.
- Stress reduction: Hiring a ghostwriter keeps your deadlines manageable and allows you to focus on other tasks, like exploring publishers or building your personal brand. Though you’ll be responsible for reviewing outlines, research, and chapters as they progress, you can relax knowing that your book is consistently moving forward even on the days you don’t think about it.
If you have a book idea but aren’t sure how to execute it, hiring a ghostwriter might be the solution. Interested in learning more about ghostwriting services or need assistance figuring out if this is the best path for you? Use our contact form to connect with a member of our team.
7 Key Questions to Ask Yourself Before Writing a Book and How They Can Impact Your Writing Process
(Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2023)
“I should write a book.” It’s a common idea thought leaders and those with influence have, and it’s one worth exploring. Infinitely rewarding and usually resulting in new and unexpected professional opportunities, writing a book is something everyone should consider if they have the knowledge to share, a story to tell, or are looking to widen their reach and impact a larger audience.
But before diving headfirst into such a critical, extensive project, there are seven key questions you should ask yourself to ensure you’re prepared for the journey ahead:
- Why do you want to write a book?
Before you get started conducting research, outlining material, or interviewing ghostwriters or book coaches, it’s important to establish what you want your book to achieve. Your primary goal might be to generate new business, expand on the core concepts you’re already sharing in other mediums, or to transition into another phase of your career. Or, maybe you want to sell as many copies as possible to establish a second stream of income or leverage your book to make guest appearances on podcasts by other thought leaders who you’ve always admired.
No matter your goal, if you go into your work with a clear mind and set expectations, you’ll be able to select partners who understand and embrace your vision and feel confident that you’re always moving forward on the path that’s best for you.
- Who is your target audience?
Knowing you want your book to be read is one thing. Knowing who you want to read it is another. Establishing a target audience is critical before writing and publishing a book—without one, you risk overlooking the people who need your ideas the most and lessening the cultural impact of your work.
Ask yourself additional questions, like: “In order to achieve my goals, who needs to read my book?,” “Who will benefit the most from my ideas and viewpoint?,” or “Who is responding to my content already?” Once you have the answers, you’ll be able to tailor your writing and overall structure to your audience’s needs and expectations.
- What makes your book unique?
Unless you’re planning to write a book on a cutting-edge topic that’s never been explored before (and you might be!), there’s likely another book like yours on sale already. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—spend some time reading titles that are in the same genre or subgenre as yours and figure out how you can and should stand apart.
For example, you might be able to explain certain concepts more effectively than anyone ever before, or you might have a new take on an old idea. Either way, determining what makes your book special will help you reach your target audience and will ensure your project reaches its full potential.
- What is your writing style?
For many, this can be one of the hardest questions to answer. If you haven’t written a book before or plan to work with a ghostwriter, you might not know what style best suits your subject matter or what you ultimately prefer.
Take a step back and identify both the books you most like to read and the books your target audience is most often reading. Use those as a jumping off point to find the style that feels most comfortable and effective for your content.
- How will you write your book?
Once you’ve answered the first four questions, you’ll need to decide how you want to execute your book. In most cases, there are three primary options:
- Write it yourself with editorial support
- Write it yourself with the support of a writing coach
- Onboard a professional ghostwriter
The choice ultimately comes down to your bandwidth, writing and research capabilities, and personal preference. There’s no wrong path to producing a book, and what’s best for one author might not be for another. Consider what will benefit your messages and aspirations the most and make the choice that’s right for you.
- What resources do you have at your disposal?
Whether or not you write the book yourself, you’ll need to lean on connections and external resources at some point during the process. You might want to integrate real-world case studies from colleagues in your manuscript, access another writer’s research, or ask a high-profile member of your network for an endorsement.
Figure out who you know and who might be willing and able to help you, and remember to lean on them when the time comes.
- How will you utilize those resources to promote your book?
It might seem far away now, but it’s never too early to begin promoting a new book. Start brainstorming promotional ideas and opportunities and always be thinking of who might be able to amplify your book’s reach once marketing is at the center of your focus.
By taking the time to ask yourself important questions before you start writing or working with a ghostwriter, you’ll ensure your manuscript is purposeful, well-organized, and motivated by clear objectives.
Need help getting started? Contact us today.
Asking yourself questions before you start writing a book can be an important step in the writing process. Here are a few reasons why it’s important to ask yourself questions before you begin writing:
- It helps you define your goals: Asking yourself questions about what you want to achieve with your book can help you clarify your goals and ensure that your writing is focused and purposeful.
- It helps you understand your audience: Asking yourself questions about who your audience is and what they might be interested in reading can help you tailor your writing to meet their needs and preferences.
- It helps you organize your thoughts: Asking yourself questions can help you think more critically about your writing and organize your thoughts in a logical and coherent manner.
- It helps you stay motivated: Asking yourself questions about your motivations for writing a book and what you hope to achieve can help you stay motivated and focused during the writing process.
By taking the time to ask yourself important questions before you start writing, you can ensure that your writing is purposeful, well-organized, and motivated by clear goals and objectives. This can help you write a book that is more engaging and enjoyable for your readers.
Amplify Author Spotlight: Val Ries
(Posted on Monday, April 10, 2023)
We are excited to feature Val Ries, author of Chief Inspiration Officer, as this month’s Amplify Author Spotlight!
Founder of Executive Muse (an executive coaching & management training company), Val helps leaders become the boss everyone wants to work for.
Starting her career as a registered nurse, Val transitioned to medical sales where she was quickly “thrown” into management. After earning her MBA and coaching certification, Val began to learn what it takes to intrinsically motivate others and ensure they actually want to come to work.
Through Val’s work with Executive Muse she coaches and trains high-impact leaders, at startups, Fortune 500 companies and small businesses. Her goal is to help them accomplish their vision of building powerful micro-cultures—and becoming a leader who increases productivity, decreases attrition and elevates employee engagement.
Val resides in the Bay area with her kids, husband and dog.
Learn more about Val’s publishing journey, her advice to authors, and the parallels she draws between leadership, writing, and dance below!
What advice would you offer to someone that’s currently working on a book?
I would advise you to not worry about getting your ideas perfectly organized when writing a book. Instead, just get them out. To organize my own thoughts, I start by creating a mind map on a poster board with the main theme in the middle and connecting bubbles for related ideas. This process helps me see where I can take the book and what different chapters might look like. From there, I just start writing and getting everything out, knowing that it’s better to have something to edit than nothing at all. So don’t be afraid to get your ideas down on paper, even if they don’t end up in the final product.
What most surprised you about the writing process?
In my experience, what surprised me the most about writing was how long it took. With the help of a writing coach, it took me 18 months to fully articulate what I wanted to say and start collecting stories and evidence to support my ideas. I was surprised by how difficult it was for me to be vulnerable at first and share my personal stories, despite the fact that people often connect with them. Initially, I held back on the vulnerability more than I should have. However, I learned that it’s important to just tell your story and share the story within the story.
When you originally set out to publish Chief Inspiration Officer, what was your goal?
I wrote Chief Inspiration Officer because I wanted to share my frustrations, failures, and the things I learned about being an effective leader. My goal was to get these nuggets out into the world so that others wouldn’t have to struggle through the same challenges I did when I was suddenly thrown into a management position. I wanted to alleviate this burden and help leaders create a healthy work environment. I care deeply about the employee experience and I know how burnout and dissatisfaction can affect both the leader’s morale and health, as well as the overall happiness of the company. By getting my message out there and teaching these techniques, I hoped to help the leader, the employee, and ultimately the company – a triple win.
Did Chief Inspiration Officer lead you to any unexpected opportunities?
In my experience, I initially worked with corporate companies that were looking for well-defined leadership training programs. However, I was surprised to find that I was also attracting small businesses that didn’t have an internal Learning and Development or HR team. Many of these were startups in between growth phases. I found myself becoming a fractional leadership consultant for them, which was something I hadn’t considered before. I enjoyed working with these leaders who were growing at a fast pace but didn’t have the infrastructure or internal resources to help them put systems in place for management and training development.
I also had the opportunity to meet coaches who were being approached by corporations looking for formal leadership training programs. They learned about my methods and ended up licensing the program through me, which was a pleasant surprise. Now, I’m considering how to scale this part of the business and expand my reach even further.
What is something people may not know about you?
I consider myself an artist in my second life. As I went on this journey of writing and building a business, I found myself getting more excited about the creative process and the behind-the-scenes work, such as designing the book cover. I was determined to find the perfect cover that spoke to my soul and truly represented my work. It took me working with what seemed like five hundred different designers until I found the right one.
Moreover, I’ve noticed that my passion for dancing keeps resurfacing in my life. I feel a sense of excitement and a release of creativity when I hear music and start to move. It’s interesting to see the parallels between leadership, my writing and my passion for dancing. They involve unleashing creativity in myself and my team, being in a state of flow, having fun, and being vulnerable with others.
What are you currently reading or what books do you most often recommend to others?
Well, mine of course; just kidding! I read a lot of fiction books because they provide a much-needed escape from the world of business and culture that I deal with on a daily basis. However, my go-to books for business-related topics are by Daniel Pink. He does a fantastic job discussing culture and his book, Drive, is a favorite of mine. Recently, I picked up a book called, Managing Narcissists, Blamers, Dramatics and More…, by Mark Murphy. It’s important for leaders to know how to manage those who bring down the energy of the team and not let them affect the entire group. I also like Brene Brown, Simon Sinek, and Adam Grant, among others, anyone who is inspiring us to be better.
Unlocking the Power of Hybrid Publishing: 5 Key Benefits for Authors
(Posted on Monday, April 3, 2023)
Hybrid publishing combines the best of traditional and self-publishing models. This method of publishing affords greater control over the publishing process and the final product, while also providing the author with the professionalism, experience, and distribution of a traditional publisher. Here are five ways that hybrid publishing sets itself apart from traditional publishing:
- Creative Control and IP Retention: In traditional publishing, authors have little control over the editing, cover design, marketing, and distribution of their books. With hybrid publishing, authors retain the full copyright to their content and are given the chance to be more involved in the editorial and creative processes and make decisions that align with their vision and goals. At Amplify, we think of ourselves as a truly collaborative partner with each of our authors, guiding them toward success and sharing best practices while leaving room for them to make their own decisions.
- Speed: Traditional publishing can be a slow-moving process, with most authors waiting at least a year to see their work in print. Hybrid publishing, on the other hand, allows authors to share their world with the world and their audience much quicker, as the timelines are streamlined and made more efficient. And, because of the collaborative nature of the hybrid publishing model, authors have a voice in when their book becomes available.
- Royalties: Lower royalty rates are the norm with traditional publishing houses, as the publisher takes the bigger percentage of book sales. With hybrid publishers, the reverse is true, and authors retain a larger share of royalties from book sales. At Amplify, our authors are offered one of the highest royalty rates in the business at 85 percent.
- Marketing: Limited resources for marketing engagements make it difficult for authors who publish through a traditional house, which, in turn, can limit an author’s reach. Unless you’re a celebrity author or someone with a significantly established platform, you won’t always receive the support you’re looking for. Hybrid publishers help authors take a more active role in their marketing work and will establish a clear framework for a book launch and publicity support that you can count on.
- Distribution: Hybrid publishing provides authors with access to the same distribution channels as traditional publishing, including bookstores and online retailers. Authors are able to reach a wider audience and share their work with more people all over the world.
In comparison to a traditional house, hybrid publishing offers a unique opportunity for authors to have more control over the publishing process and their final product. Combined with professionalism and robust distribution methods, it’s easy to see how hybrid publishing is quickly shaking up the industry.
March Employee Spotlight: Jenna Scafuri, Senior Production Editor
(Posted on Thursday, March 30, 2023)
This month, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on one of our senior production editors, Jenna Scafuri, who brings nearly fifteen years of experience in editing and publishing to our team.
Jenna’s passion for the written word is evident in her work, where she advocates for authors and ensures that their unique voices are reflected in their prose. At Amplify, Jenna enjoys guiding authors through every step of production and demystifying the publication process along the way.
Describe your role at Amplify Publishing Group:
Jenna: You can think of me as a project manager. Once an author has officially signed on to publish their book with APG, I step in to guide them through every step of the production process. I oversee everything from writing and editing to design and layout, and eventually printing.
What’s one thing that surprised you about your position?
Jenna: Every day is different! Every book is unique and every author has their own perspective to offer. Some days I may be more focused on editing dust jackets or reviewing printer proofs, while other days are spent brainstorming creative cover designs and working with illustrators. This position truly requires you to wear all the hats, which is endlessly engaging.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Jenna: During my nearly three years at APG, I have personally guided more than 130 books through production. Seeing my authors succeed and encountering their books out in the world is just pure joy. Every time I hold a newly printed book in my hands, I’m reminded that our books are the author’s dream come to life—an accomplishment I get to experience over and over again.
What are you currently reading?
Jenna: Call Us What We Carry by Amanda Gorman and The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab. I love poetry and have been captivated by Amanda Gorman since her inauguration reading. I think Addie LaRue is truly a modern classic, and I’m actually reading it for the second time! I’m currently in a bit of a fiction rut, and whenever that happens, I love returning to my favorites.
What is something you’ve learned in the last week?
Jenna: There are many bakers who claim to make authentic French macarons, but there’s currently only one person in the world who holds the right to manufacture the original Saint-Emilion recipe that dates back to 1620—Nadia Fermigier—and I’ll be visiting her famous shop in France this summer!
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