Is writing a book a marketing tactic or a long-term strategy?

I was asked this question about writing a book on a podcast interview a couple weeks ago. I apologize — I can’t remember who asked it but it is an interesting question I have never been asked before. Good job interviewer who I can’t remember.

There can be very different motivations for writing a book and many people are surprised that things usually don’t work out as they planned when they get into it the process … so let’s explore this topic today.

Why write a book and what can you expect?

The Marketing Tactic

The most common reason to write a book is for social proof — external validation that you simply have a book. Perhaps somebody wants to appear more important because they are an “author.”

People who write a book as a tactic may go through an agency to help them write and promote the book. Usually they only write one book — that’s enough. They have their social proof. They are the author of something.

Here is a quote from prolific author Ryan Holiday:

“In my work with authors, I’ve met with no shortage of smart, accomplished people who, I’ve realized, don’t actually want to write a book despite what they say. They want to have a book. We find these types in every…