Writing Benefits: 4 Reasons Why You Should Write
When you are sitting in front of a computer trying to write for publication, you may wonder, “Is this worth it? Will I get writing benefits?”
Remember these benefits when you question whether you should attempt to get something published. In this post, publications mean articles, chapters, and books.
1. Publications add value to your career
They may influence a hiring or promotion decision.
Example:
Juanita, a nurse practitioner, published several research articles in medical journals. When she sought work as an expert witness, her publications stood out to the attorneys and significantly influenced their decision tochoose her over other candidates.
2. Credibility and Expertise
Well-written publications establish your credibility. They can position you as an expert in your field. People might say, “She’s an expert on that subject—she wrote the book on it.” Some professionals build their entire careers by writing articles and leveraging their publications.
This enables people to reach you and ask you to review cases, be a public speaker, or be involved in a project. If you are visible in other ways, an internet search will lead people to you.
Example:
Dr. Shapiro, a psychologist, wrote a comprehensive book on cognitive-behavioral therapy. As a result, she was frequently invited to speak at conferences and workshops, solidifying her reputation as an expert in her field.
3. Monetary Compensation
Depending on the publication, you might receive compensation for your work.
Professional journals often pay fees for articles, and traditional publishers offer royalties, typically 10-15% of the net price.
Self-published books can yield a higher proportion of the net price.
Though I joke about making only 35 cents an hour in royalties considering the time spent writing, the doors opened by my publications have been invaluable.
An interesting article may lead to your request to do a column. An exciting column may be syndicated or picked up by other publications. A fascinating book or article may result in requests for more books, speaking opportunities, consulting jobs, business, fame, interviews by the press, podcasts, radio shows, television shows, and more.
Additional Income Opportunities
Authors can generate extra income by buying and selling their own books, often at a 50% discount from the publisher.
You can pre-sell books for events or set up a table for sales at the back of the room.
Example:
Nataraj, an author of a popular self-help book, purchased copies at a 50% discount from his publisher. He sold these books at full price during his speaking events, effectively doubling his income from book sales.
The writing skills that you develop are translatable to writing in different forms, such as e-books or online courses and developing other products that can be sold to increase revenue.
As long as you are comfortable with words and with the process of putting the words down on paper, you can translate those words into various formats.
4. You can say, “I did it. I am a published author.”
There is an enormous sense of satisfaction in completing a publication.
And the best feeling is opening a box of your books and smelling them. Seriously.
Example
Christine, an LNC, always dreamed of becoming a published author. After weeks of effort, she finished her chapter for a compilation book and proudly handed it out when she exhibited at attorney conferences.
The sense of pride and accomplishment she felt when holding her book for the first time was unmatched, and it inspired her to continue writing.
These examples illustrate how publishing can impact various aspects of your career and personal growth.
My publications changed my life in ways I could not foresee as an expert witness, consultant, speaker, employer, and coach.
Gain more credibility, visibility, and authority by participating in our compilation book, Medical Record Analysis. Go here for the details: http://LNC.tips/MRA3.
Pat Iyer is president of The Pat Iyer Group, which develops resources to assist LNCs in obtaining more clients, making more money, and achieving their business goals and dreams.
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