Writing, Self-Publishing, Book Marketing

Predict the Curve and Write

January 20, 2011 at 7:03 pm mbutler22 Leave a comment

The old, “Think Outside the Box” has been replaced. Granted, you’re still required to tap into an idea, look at it from an angled perspective and then transform it from the ordinary. But these days, that’s not enough…

Not only do you have to live outside of this box, but now your peripheral vision needs to see beyond the upcoming curves. As a writer, a freelancer, and a business strategist, you must Think Ahead of the Curve.

Take a look at our industry. Freelance submittals are usually accepted for publication in issues that are 6+ months out. What do you think determines the acceptance of your writing? Luck…maybe. A great story…possibly. But there are flood waters of great stories. So, how does your story stand out?

Use your competitive relish for predicting hot trends to provide cutting-edge content.

The constantly-in-motion Internet is responsible for keeping an accurate pulse on the changing tastes and wants from around the globe. While the web provides writers with further opportunity, this also forces each of us to become cultural gurus, visionaries and trendsetters.

We are reverted back to student status outside of our major — research and study to find opportunity.

Here are a few ways to get you ahead of the curve:

1. Stay Current with the News (local and global): For example, a particular newsworthy event which occurred in Patagonia or Lewistown, Montana will heighten the media’s awareness of that particular area and thus increase future stories and expenditures to the location. The key is to realize when that first story hits a higher level of interest will occur. Begin researching a topic appropriate to the area (fly fishing) and pitch your idea before the hype has begun.
2. Upcoming Events: Capitalize on the opportunity when an event is first announced. The usual media uproar occurs when the event’s date is nearing. Why not be the first to present the event or gain an interview early in the game when the content will hold more value.
3. Anniversaries: Nostalgia sells and cultural milestones offer a way to gauge progression. Highlight the importance of what it means to readers today and the legacy that continues to grow. Look for obscure connections that add a deeper level to your story.

The writing market is saturated with fresh and seasoned talent. Our ability to consistently generate new and timely material is becoming equally as important as our individual writing styles. Exercise the predictability of the coming shifts in trends and events. Foresight is becoming a necessary road to your writing success. 

Entry filed under: Marketing. Tags: book, market, publish, Self-Publishing, Writing.