In business, where every move can tilt the scales of success, there’s one asset that’s both underutilized and undervalued by executives: a personal branding book. This isn’t about penning a dusty memoir that sits on a shelf. This is about strategically positioning yourself as a thought leader in your industry, the go-to expert whose insights shape conversations and drive decisions.
At Lucid House Publishing, we don’t just publish books; we craft legacies. Led by Echo Montgomery Garrett, author of more than 22 nonfiction books, including My Orange Duffel Bag: A Journey to Radical Change, our team has partnered up with executives and business leaders to spread their message, tell their stories, and help them take their industry by storm.
Why Write a Personal Branding Book?
In a market teeming with competitors all vying for the same spotlight, a book is the ultimate business card. But why does this matter? Let’s break it down.
1. Authority and Credibility: Imagine having a direct line to your target audience—CEOs, decision-makers, and industry influencers—who see your name on the cover of a book. Instant credibility. Your ideas are published, documented, and shared. It’s a permanent, undeniable mark of authority.
For example, “Rework,” a startup manifesto written by Basecamp cofounder and CEO Jason Fried grew his authority and reach far beyond the tech industry, helping readers understand how Basecamp grew steadily and extremely profitable with less than 40 employees.
2. Visibility and Reach: A well-crafted book isn’t limited to a small circle. It travels. It’s read by people you’ve never met, recommended in boardrooms you’ve never stepped into, and discussed in circles that can open doors you never knew existed. And when it’s your name on the cover, every page they turn is a step deeper into your world, your expertise, and your business.
“There are three main factors to consider in the process of creating your brand: 1) Connection with your niche, 2) A shared worldview with your audience, and 3) That you be trusted as a source of information.” – Jason Hartman
3. Business Impact: A book positions you as an industry leader, which in turn benefits your company. Clients and customers are more likely to trust a business led by a published author, someone who’s defining the game. It’s a strategic tool for business growth—one that pays dividends in brand equity and client acquisition.
The Business Case: Why Companies Should Invest
A book by an executive can be a goldmine for the company. Here’s how:
Enhanced Corporate Reputation: When your executive team is seen as thought leaders, it elevates your company’s brand. It sends a clear message: your company is leading the charge.
Increased Media Opportunities: Authors are magnets for media attention. Interviews, speaking engagements, and media features follow. The more your executive is in the spotlight, the more your company benefits from the free PR.
Talent Magnet: Top-tier talent is drawn to companies led by visionary leaders. A book is a beacon for the best and brightest in your industry—people who want to work with a thought leader, not just a boss. Gary Vee, Neil Patel, and Codie Sanchez attract world-class talent off of the power of their personal brands.
Finding The Right Partner in Building an Unforgettable Brand
At Lucid House Publishing, we specialize in taking your ideas and turning them into a powerful narrative. Our process is tailored, sharp, and laser-focused on your goals. Here’s how we do it:
1. Strategic Content Development: We dig deep into your industry, your challenges, and your unique perspective. What sets you apart? What makes your insights indispensable? We hone in on these elements, ensuring your book is a game-changer in your field.
2. Expert Ghostwriting and Editing: You’re busy running a business; we get that. Our team of expert ghostwriters and editors will capture your voice, polish your ideas, and ensure every sentence is sharp, engaging, and impactful. You’re not just writing a book—you’re creating a legacy.
3. Professional Publishing Services: From layout to cover design to distribution, we handle every aspect of the publishing process with precision. Your book will look great and be available where your audience is—online, in bookstores, and in the hands of the people who matter.
4. Brand Integration: This is where the magic happens. We integrate your book into your broader brand strategy. Think of custom campaigns, targeted marketing efforts, and cross-platform promotion that amplifies your message across all channels.
Business Expense Considerations
1. Purpose and Use: The book must serve a legitimate business purpose. If the book is used to enhance the executive's professional reputation, promote the business, or serve as a marketing tool, these expenses could be classified as ordinary and necessary business expenses. The IRS generally allows deductions for expenses that are ordinary (common and accepted in your trade or business) and necessary (helpful and appropriate for your business).
2. Documentation: It’s essential to keep detailed records of all expenses related to the book project. This includes contracts with the ghostwriter or book coach, invoices for services, and receipts for any other costs such as publishing fees, marketing, and distribution.
3. Allocation of Costs: If the book serves both personal and business purposes, you may need to allocate the costs between the two. Only the portion of expenses directly related to the business purpose can be deducted.
Tax Write-Off Potential
1. Deductible Expenses: The costs associated with hiring a ghostwriter, co-author, or book coach, as well as publishing and marketing the book, can potentially be deducted as business expenses. This might include fees for writing services, design and printing costs, and promotional expenses.
2. Consult with a Tax Professional: The IRS rules around business deductions can be complex, and they may vary depending on your specific situation. It's advisable to consult with a tax professional or accountant who can provide guidance on how to appropriately deduct these expenses, ensure compliance with tax regulations, and maximize your potential tax savings.
Bottom Line: It’s Time to Make Your Mark
Your competitors are talking. Let them. You’ll be the one defining the conversation. A personal branding book is more than a vanity project—it’s a strategic investment in your career, your company, and your future. At Lucid House Publishing, we’re here to make sure your story is unforgettable.
Ready to leave your mark?