How to Craft Blurbs that Build Your Brand As writers, taglines and pitches are important because they set your brand apart in as few words as possible. You have about ten seconds to make a powerful first impression. Update: make that three seconds. Your tagline is the “welcome mat” of your web site, business card, or any other…

Every freelancer and business owner wants referrals, but have we taken a deeper look at what drives them? Referrals are the best way to build a business. I’d even argue that without them, your business is doomed. The number of referrals you receive is an indicator of the health of…

A considerable part of your brand is expressed in your bio: your social profiles, and on the About page of your web site. And don’t forget LinkedIn. Does your bio tell a story? Or does it read like a resume? Is there any personality in the words? Do people get…

Love to speak? Hate to “sell”? Here are proven elements to maximize book sales at your speaking events. I’ve coached bestselling authors with this process and seen measurable improvements. Even “non-paid” speaking engagements can become profitable by maximizing product sales. These tips also apply to courses, coaching packages, or any…

You’re working on a book. But are you focused on the right elements? — I’m not asking about grammar, voice, and flow. I’m referring to the most overlooked aspect of the business of writing: your personal brand. Believe it or not, your brand is more important than your book. Here are five reasons why — and guidelines for improving your brand. Agents represent brands In the nonfiction…

Nearly all writers and entrepreneurs hear the nagging whispers. Unless you’re a bestselling author or millionaire, it’s natural to feel tentative about your personal brand. There are warning signs… Your actions beg, “Please like me! I’m on the verge of giving up, and I just started!” …

I used to record audio and video at events in hotels and convention centers around the country. This was mostly behind-the-scenes work, and required special access. At first I’d stop staff and ask permission to go backstage or enter the employee-only hallways. That got old — for me and them. …

What’s Your Name Worth? I recently watched an interview with multi-million-selling music producer, David Foster. David tells the story of completing production on one of his first records, and giving a copy to his mentor, Quincy Jones, (a multi-bazillion selling music producer). Handing Quincy the record, David said, “By the…

I was coaching an author recently about her book launch and realized that she was pouring all her time and energy into making sure this book was a success. What’s the problem with that, Mike? Well, books come and go. In five years, this book will be a memory, and…