I’m sure that when you first started getting the idea to write a book, you thought that the toughest part would be writing the book. But sometimes, coming up with a plan for what to do with that book is even tougher. There are so many options. Do you want to start a group to discuss your topic? Do you want to use it as part of your business or to start a business? You can do speaking engagements or give it to new clients or potential clients. Really, the possibilities are endless.

However, this may be the most important part of writing the book because it can guide you in your writing. You have to know the purpose of the book before you can write, which means you have to figure out at least one thing you want to do with it first.

Think about what your audience needs and what is available for them as resources. Ask people if they want to learn from you with a talk, one-on-one, retreats, etc. How will the material best be received? Your book is a vital part of that equation so consider if they will have it before, during, or after their interaction with you.

“How about putting it up on Amazon and hoping that the sales fairies will magically make it a best seller?” you may ask. That’s a great idea, but I don’t think it’s very plausible. Sales fairies are actually pretty lazy, and they don’t make much effort on turning books into best sellers unless there is substantial gain for them. Back to the drawing board!

So let’s start with these three easy steps to figure out your goal with the book:

• Research – start by talking to people and digging around online to see what is already out there and how it’s being presented. Sometimes speakers use their book for the lead magnet (freebie) at the beginning of a sales funnel (i.e. here’s a free book, you love the material, think of how awesome it would be to work one-on-one with this person). Others may offer a class in the material and make the book available for purchase before or after the class. See what your peers are already doing.
• Decide if any of the ideas you’ve been looking at are things you would feel comfortable doing yourself. If the thought of public speaking makes you want to vomit, then that’s probably not a good idea. However, if small group work with a curriculum you design to accompany your book feels doable, then that’s the direction you want to take. Picture yourself doing these different things before you decide what your book’s goal is.
• Write the book. (Duh. 😉 ) Keep that goal in mind, and develop your outline. Remember that you don’t want to share every detail of every secret if your book is more comprehensive. You don’t want to render the rest of your plan pointless. If it’s a basics book, and you want to teach more in-depth material, then make sure you provide the reader with a good foundation to build on.