In my quest to share my insights and expertise in a more structured format, I’m working on a book. But not without help! Lisa Tener’s class is helping to keep me on-target for a first draft in 8 weeks.
See my earlier post on overhauling the Designated Editor brand.
I like to say “Websites age in dog years.” Due to styles, usability preferences, and technology they start to look stale after about 3 years. Or, after 3 years you should be planning a makeover, one of the services Designated Editor provides to clients (shameless plug).
But perhaps the same is true for brands? From when I first launched Designated Editor, 4 years and 2 website designs ago, much has changed. First, when I left The Globe, only newspapers seemed to be headed toward a sinkhole. Now we’ve experienced the Great Recession. While the economy was down, I was filling up on knowledge, starting with SEO and then Social Media, always evolving, but I’m evolving with it.
Part of that evolution is taking my insights and creating a guide to jump-start brands’ new media efforts. The book takes a holistic view of new media, not simply social media. If you’ve been a regular Designated Editor blog reader you’ll find several themes, among them:
- Search and Social are morphing
- In-person interactions and social media complement each other
- Search should be – and is increasing so – about fulfilling user needs
All is not without controversy: Years ago an SEO expert left a comment that challenges my downplay of link-building. Since then search experts know: It’s not about building links but building reputation.
In the Designated Editor brand overhaul, I’m relying on key folks for support, Lisa Tener being first and foremost as I eagerly put my thoughts to paper. If you’re considering writing a book, or completing any major project, here are a few recent tips from Lisa’s workshop that you may find helpful:
Book-writing tips from Lisa Tener
- Put the book first
- Beware of new must-dos that may crop up
- Delegate more
- Let go of your ego: focus on what you can give, not how others will see it.
Considering Writing a Book? Dial into Lisa Tener’s Free Teleseminar on March 19.
Another tip from a classmate: Don’t get hemmed in by technology. It’s OK to write on your iPhone or iPad and email yourself the document. I write on the sunporch with my iPad, far from my desk, which prohibits interruptions like checking email and answering calls.
Former journalists, Designated Editor engages with your audiences, wherever they may be.
It’s exciting to see the Designated Editor Brand evolve, Suzanne. It is interesting how writing a book helps business people clarify for others what their brand is–and in the process get clearer themselves. Thanks for considering me a key supporter in your process!