Lessons from My Journey as an Author
Every day, I step into the world with my books in hand, ready to connect with readers. Selling books isn’t just about the transaction for me—it’s a journey of learning and adapting. I don’t just walk up to people hoping for a sale; I take the time to observe. I read people—their mannerisms, facial expressions, and how they react to my presence.
I make sure to dress well, armed with a couple of books and my iPad, and I approach with a warm, respectful inquiry. “Are you a reader of books?” I might ask, or I’ll try, “You look like a book reader.” Sometimes, if I’m really lucky, they already have a book in hand that aligns with the kind of stories I write. That’s my opening.
Once I’ve broken that initial barrier, I’ll follow up with something like, “Do you mind if I give you an overview of my writings?” or “Can you spare a minute so I can explain why my books belong in your library?” Rejections happen often, but I’ve learned not to take them personally. People’s responses might be more about their own circumstances than about me. That’s a mindset I work on daily.
Still, there are moments when rejection stings. On those days, I realize I didn’t prepare myself mentally before heading out. Listening to Tony Robbins, Eric Thomas, or Les Brown helps set the tone for my day. With the right mindset, I feel like I can connect with almost anyone. My books are about inspiring productivity and leading a purpose-driven life, and I believe there’s a reader out there for every book I’ve written. My job is to find them.
Adapting to People and Places
I’ve noticed that my success often depends on where I am. Shopping areas and parking lots are great because they’re busy, and people are already in a buying mindset—especially during this time of year when many have extra cash to spend. But I know I can do more. I’m thinking about how I can better reach people who might not be in these spaces. What about individuals with more downtime, like those in hospitals or prisons? Those readers are out there, too.
I believe my “Zone Philosophy” is what sets me apart and helps me teach others about the art of sales. It’s a simple system I use to approach every potential reader:
- Cold Zone: These are people I’ve never met before and who’ve never heard of me. It’s the first time we’re crossing paths. My goal here is to make a memorable first impression without being pushy.
- Warm Zone: This group has some familiarity with me. Maybe they’ve seen me before, heard about me through a friend, or stumbled upon one of my books. Here, I build on that connection.
- Hot Zone: These are my loyal readers—people who already know me, maybe even purchased a book before. When I meet them again, it’s about deepening the relationship and encouraging them to spread the word.
This philosophy reminds me to take my time and not rush the process. It’s about the long-term journey, not just a single sale. It also helps me protect my ego when a deal doesn’t close right away. I remind myself that even if I don’t make the sale today, I’m planting a seed for tomorrow.
Reaching More Readers and Expanding My Impact
I’m constantly thinking about how to grow. What can I do differently? How can I meet new readers where they are? I want to start targeting places like hospitals, prisons, and even transit locations where people have the time to sit down and immerse themselves in a book. Partnering with organizations, libraries, or book clubs is another avenue I plan to explore.
Another area I’m focusing on is leveraging social media. When I meet potential readers in person, I make sure to ask if they’re on Instagram or other platforms so we can stay connected. It’s about extending that interaction beyond the initial moment.
The Lesson in My Hustle
What I’ve realized is that selling books is more than a job—it’s a craft. Every interaction teaches me something new. I’ve learned to take rejection as part of the process and to keep refining my approach. My goal isn’t just to sell books; it’s to inspire people and leave a lasting impact.
So, when you see me out there, know this: I’m not just selling stories. I’m living one. My hustle is about connection, persistence, and a relentless belief that my work belongs in the hands of readers who need it. Whether I’m in the cold zone, warm zone, or hot zone, I’m building something bigger than myself—a castle of readers who value purpose, productivity, and the power of a good book.
