So you have an idea for a book, then you take a look at Amazon and realise that lots of other authors have already written about this subject. You may feel disheartened; who needs yet another book about this?
But scroll down a bit – and you’ll see some subheadings; ‘Customers also bought’ and ‘Products related to this item’ and this list other similar books. Why? Because when people are interested in a subject, they usually buy more than one book about it. I bet you have a few books on your bookshelf around your area of specialism.
Don’t let a little competition discourage you – but do get to know what you’re up against.
It’s worth having read a few of the best sellers. Not only will you probably learn a few new facts, but you’ll also get a feel for what makes a book popular, how the author takes their reader on the journey and get some insights into different writing styles.
It also means that you won’t reinvent the wheel. Let’s be honest, there are a lot of ideas in any genre that are recycled – because they work – over and over again. And there’s nothing wrong with referencing other people’s models and theories. But your book should be YOUR take on the subject. That’s what will make it unique.
Part of your research might also include looking at popular podcasts around the subject, there are some real gems that come up in interviews. Also, given today’s frantic pace of life, some people prefer to consume information in audible form, so they can do other things while listening. If you know what people are listening to, it can contribute to your content development.
Most important of all – keep an open mind!
