Bestsellers List! ... Really???
The not-so-new trend in book publishing is getting on Amazon’s bestsellers list. But what does that really mean? Is Amazon losing its credibility when book sales ranking is based on just an algorithm?
I’ve been invited on more than one occasion to participate in a book launch. While there is great merit to organizing such an event, the premise here is to get as many friends and family to purchase your book immediately after launch at a substantial discounted rate. This then drives the algorithm, and voilà, you are now a best-selling author.
Now, let’s take a step back and really assess this “coveted title.” What happens after the launch is completed? The book now sits in your bookcase, never even opened, let alone read.
So, what exactly is the purpose of getting on a “bestseller list” if there is no follow-up? A well-written book should have a few purposes: for entertainment, the enjoyment of reading, vital information, educational content. It needs to fulfill a need that someone else is seeking.
What’s Next After Publishing?
If your written work is a passion project and your true goal is to inform, educate, and entertain, and the author themselves puts the book on the shelf, never to be seen again, then my question is: what is the purpose of writing a book… just for the accolade? To build on your expertise status?
Writing books is great. I am a fan of anyone who took the time to write and publish a book. But what now? What’s the next step?
I believe that the book is just the first step to the bigger picture. It becomes the tool you use to further share your commitment to your message.
Authenticity vs. Ego
I’ve also noticed a trend of books written in a hurry, “just to get it done” and out of the way. I am passionate about reading and I enjoy and collect books. I reread several books because they triggered something in me: a revelation, an aha moment, a better understanding, a new way to look at things.
My favorite and most trusted books are the ones that are referred to me. The ones that someone else read and felt were worthy enough to share and suggest to others. These do not have major launch parties, but what they do have is impact. Impact to the level of pass-on referrals. They then make it into the New York Times bestsellers list based on actual sales, interest, and conversations.
If the only purpose of publishing a book is to get a “star sticker,” then we are doing a disservice to humanity. The intention is not based on truly sharing and offering content that helps, nurtures, and supports your followers, but an inauthentic attempt to make money and elevate yourself, not your audience.
The Bigger Picture
The next time you’re approached by someone offering to include you in a book compilation, or a launch that is over before it began, take a step back and assess the big picture. What is your legacy? Who do you really want to be seen as, and are the words on those pages coming from true passion and purpose?
In the end, if your book is only for the ego boost, remember: it might make a great doorstop or a decent way to prop up that wobbly table leg.
But if it’s for your audience, it’ll be a beacon of knowledge, inspiration, and authentic connection.
Choose wisely!
