How large is your community? by Anita Job

The size does not matter at the beginning; the involvement of that community does. Writing is a side hustle on top of my regular job, and has not generated quick results but has brought immense satisfaction to my task-oriented mind. It has been fun writing the book. I have received feedback from beta readers and editors, working with a graphic designer for the cover, and eagerly anticipating 5-star reviews from bloggers. All have been very positive experiences so far. One of the perks is that an author gets to choose who they work with for each of these components of book writing. I feel a sense of pride and ownership over the work. The freedom to work where and when I want to is an attractive lifestyle. Listening to summits and webinars on the writing process and receiving help from those who are further along than I am has been invaluable. The author community is very eager to mentor and help new authors. What most surprised me was the marketing: how to reach my ideal reader. There have been multiple strategies I have used to get the word out. Be forewarned: advertising to the masses only sometimes creates immediate results. It has presented a unique and perplexing challenge for me as a non-fiction author. Can marketing and selling the book be solved? The book has regularly pushed me to reach out to strangers and ask them for what I perceive as a win-win outcome: where both parties benefit. Receiving endorsements will likely be the next strategy I pursue. Selling a book cannot be done alone. The book will find a life of its own through referrals and word of mouth. It takes a team to help the author’s dream come true. One day, with consistent effort, I hope you look back and realize that the community around the book is broader than you ever could have anticipated! 

Written by Anita Job

About Anita Job

I started writing in 2020 because it was the year that many people in my network were changing careers. I had previously made a few transitions myself and felt I could share my knowledge with them to avoid common pitfalls and a variety of strategies that had worked for me in the past. My intent was to communicate positive, practical questions to guide them in whatever was next for them. As I journeyed with them, some rebounded quickly while others took a little longer, and they all landed on their feet eventually, happy with what they found. I hope from reading my book that’s your experience too! 

In my free time, I enjoy volunteering, learning, and spending time with friends and family. I enjoy traveling and trying new things, especially new recipes! In the summer, you’ll find me conquering the next mountain peak or paddling in my kayak. In the winter, a perfect day might involve watching hockey or curling up on the couch with a good book.