How to Write a Book That Positions You as the Go-To Expert in Your Industry
Writing a book is no longer just about sharing knowledge—it’s a powerful strategy to build authority, attract opportunities, and set yourself apart from your competitors. For coaches, consultants, and experts, a book isn’t just a product—it’s a positioning tool. But not all books are created equal.
Some books make you look like a respected thought leader. Others make you look like someone who rushed to publish just to say, “I’m an author.”
The difference comes down to strategy. Here’s how to write a book that does more than sit on a shelf—it builds your reputation and opens doors.
Step 1: Start with Positioning, Not Writing
Before you write a single word, get crystal clear on these questions:
Who do you want to reach?
What do you want to be known for?
What’s the problem you’re solving for your readers?
What opportunities do you want your book to create for you (clients, speaking, media features)?
Your answers will guide everything—from your title to your content to your marketing plan.
Step 2: Choose a Magnetic Topic That Aligns with Your Expertise
The best topics are at the intersection of:
What you know better than anyone else.
What your audience is actively searching for.
What positions you for future opportunities (programs, services, speaking topics).
This is why keyword research matters, even before you write the book. Understanding what your audience searches for gives you an advantage when crafting your title, subtitle, and even your chapter titles.
Step 3: Write to Solve a Specific Problem
Most successful non-fiction books for experts aren’t just stories or theories—they’re practical guides. Your reader should walk away with actionable steps they can implement immediately.
Structure your book around solving your audience’s most pressing challenge, and show them a clear path forward.
Step 4: Weave in Your Story (Without Making It All About You)
Your personal story builds connection, but remember—your book isn’t your biography. It’s about your reader. Use your story strategically to illustrate lessons, create empathy, and inspire action.
Step 5: Position Your Book for Discoverability
Great books need to be found. That’s why your title, subtitle, description, and even your table of contents should be optimized for SEO. This helps your book rank for the very problems your ideal clients are searching to solve.
Step 6: Make Your Book the Start of a Bigger Conversation
A powerful book isn’t the end of the journey—it’s the invitation to work with you, follow you, or hire you. Use your book to direct readers to:
Free resources (lead magnets)
Workshops or webinars
Consulting packages
Speaking availability
Conclusion
When written strategically, your book becomes more than just a book—it becomes the ultimate positioning tool. It’s your 24/7 ambassador, proving your authority and attracting the right opportunities to you.
Don’t just write a book. Write a book that builds your business and brand.
