The Business of Being a Writer
As I considered the next selection for our Books for Thriving Creatives series, I went back and forth about including the new edition of Jane Friedman’s excellent resource, The Business of Being a Writer. When I saw that the second edition was available for pre-order, I hit that purchase button as fast as possible. The first edition was a staple on my desk for years, and this new one promised updates for an industry that has been upended by the decline of journalism and the rise of AI. If you are a writer who wants to put your work into the world and even make a living, go purchase this book now. You will not be sorry.
But is this tome going to be helpful for those who aren’t writers?
Yes. I do believe it will be. Because even though this book takes you through the specifics of the writing business, there are two ways that it can benefit non-writers.
Though maybe check it out from the library instead of purchasing a copy.
Marketing
Getting published can help you gain publicity, place you as a thought leader in your industry, and simply share information that you think is worth sharing. Publishing can mean anything from getting a short article placed in the local newspaper to promote an event to writing a full book that shares all your wisdom.
For example, I used to work for Brian Boggs at his workshop in Asheville, NC. Over the years, he’s written multiple articles for Fine Woodworking magazine that have led to him teaching classes as well as enticing clients to purchase his woodworking tools and fine furniture. These pieces have served to make him a thought leader in the woodworking space as well as creating a space for him to share his knowledge with other woodworkers across the planet.
To use this book for this reason, you’ll want to focus on parts two and four. If you’re most interested in publishing a book, include part three.
Business
Just like the title says, this book is all about the business of being a writer. And, as an entrepreneur of your craft, you need to know how to run this small, mostly solo business. While you don’t need to know the specifics of this writing gig, there are jewels in here to help you create and run a business that works for you.
To glean these nuggets, read parts one (Mindset), two (Platform), five (Business Model) and six (Business Basics). And just substitute your profession each time she says “writer.”
And to the writers among us—While you’re going to want to jump in and read every single word, start with the “How to Navigate This Book” section on page 4. Take some time to evaluate exactly what you need to know and dive in there. After all, it’s 350 pages long. Treat this book as a reference and know that, whenever you want guidance on a specific subject, it will be right there on your desk.
You can find The Business of Being a Writer, Second Edition by Jane Friedman at your local bookstore, online, or at the library.
Enjoy this meaty read!
Need a refresher on how to read a craft book and remember the lessons? Click here for a reading technique that keeps you finishing books and click here for how to remember what you’ve read!
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I’m LA (as in tra-la-la) Bourgeois, a writer and KMCC-certified creativity coach dedicated to walking with you through any transition! Whether you’re looking to deepen your relationship with your art or patrons, explore a new possibility, or ignite the passion for creativity again, I’ve got your back. Click here to explore becoming a member of the Coaching Cohort or contact me at la@labourgeois.biz to ask questions and schedule an exploratory call.