Does an Author’s Image Matter?
December 14th, 2009
By Guest Blogger Lauren Solomon,
www.LSImage.com
Click Here to hear Lauren’s interview with Jennifer at 9:00 am EST on the WomensRadio Network
What is an author, really? Initially, an author is one who puts thoughts into writing for others to view, accept, challenge, or ponder. Ultimately, an author is (is viewed as) an expert, an authority, one who influences, specializes, teaches, permits, mandates or sanctions. An author has power in society where the average individual does not.
What is an image? An image is a picture, a visual representation, a reflection, an impression, or the way one is seen. An image has power to communicate that which the individual may not.
Authors will spend hours, days, and months agonizing over the “look” of their book, the image — the cover, the interior layout and design. Each piece of their creation must align to support the message being created by the words on the page.
Finally, when the “big day” arrives, the book is on the shelves and you, the author, are sitting in the studio of the local TV station waiting to hear the host introduce you, speak your name, YOU, author of this book, the expert, the specialist and authority…and, there you are, for all the world to see…what do they see? Does the world “see” the expert, specialist and authority? Or, do they see John, the local hardware guy, or Sarah, the lady who runs the garden shop around the corner. If your book is your hook, can you show up and reel them on in?
More and more authors are discovering the importance of “showing up” to promote their books and ultimately, themselves. Your book is only your hook. What the world really wants is YOU. They want to see you, hear you, touch you and connect with you. We want you to be one of us, be yourself, and yet be one step beyond. Engage me, intrigue me, interest me and I will buy your book. If I connect with you, I will make extra effort to connect with your book.
Your public presence is critical for your success. That presence may be reflected in a live appearance, a photo in print or electronic media, or by your voice alone. Your book will be your hook. It will introduce you. However, when you show up as the expert you truly are, your image will introduce you. It will tell the world how you see yourself and how to receive you. Let your image work for you. You will experience, without a doubt, the power of the timeless partnership between the verbal and the visual – the author and the image.
To learn more, see Lauren’s book, Image Matters!: First Steps on the Journey to Your Best Self
