Writing is a big part of my life. I write A LOT for my work, but also personal life as well. Of course, writing comes in all shapes and sizes – but it has become one of the main skills necessary for my work as a professor. Whether it is writing research papers to tweets to popular press contributions – it changes each day.
There are some types of writing where you can get a lot of advice and resources on – there are always a ton of webinars and special conference panel sessions when it comes to writing or contributing to specific journals. However, this is not all of the writing we do as professors.
Why do I bring this up? This past week was filled with one particular subject that is near and dear to my heart: books, specifically, book writing.
First, I got a chance to be part of a Zoom panel this week with other authors of PR and social media books to discuss all of the ins and outs that go into book writing.
I was honored to be part of this panel with my fellow colleagues who have books – and I am glad this was set up because it would have been one session I would have liked to have attended when I was a graduate student.
Book writing – particularly in public relations – has always been viewed as something you could do, but it was not valued at the same level as research publications.
Personally, I was always surprised at this because the amount of reviews, comments, edits, and more you have to go through with books – it should be at the same level as research publications. Plus, you have to consider a wide range of audiences who will be reviewing and critiquing your book – whereas the audiences for research articles are more focused.
I bring this up because I was able to receive the NCA PRD PRIDE award this week for Outstanding Textbook. When I received this award, I was both shocked and surprised – but filled with gratitude as well. The journey to get to this place where you not only have a book in your name, but get recognition for your contribution from your colleagues, is priceless. I was honored and truly touched to receive this award.
With that being said, it brings up the the need for our community to have more resources and opportunities for book writing. My goal – as I discussed in the panel session – is to have a bookshelf of books written by my colleagues and friends to share w/ my students.
So, what are some of the ins and outs of book writing? I shared a few things in the panel session, but here are some of my thoughts:
- Books are VALUED by others. There are many myths that come with books and how they are not as valuable to tenure, promotion, or your university than research articles. This is not true. Most of the time, it is a book that is often cited as an example of your expert contribution to the field. I also would recommend thinking critically about what others say about writing books. Some things need to be explored at a deeper level. I remember how a few professors I heard at conferences would say “writing books are not worth it” and all of that – but in reality, they are authors of books themselves. So the question arises – why would they discourage others in doing something they are doing? Exactly.
- Any one can write a book. Love the movie Ratatouille where Chef Gusteau shares his famous phrase to Remy “Any one can cook!” I believe any one can write a book. It does not matter which program you teach at, or who you know in the industry – any one can write a successful book. It will take time, dedication, and effort – but if you are passionate about doing this – go for it!
- Know your routine and what works best for you. Know what time of day works for you for your writing, and which approach works best for you. I know personally – I am a person who has to write in the morning. I can’t write (unless it’s creative) at night – even with coffee in hand! Schedule out the routines for your work each day.
- Rome (or books!) was not built in a day. This project will take a long time to come to light. With the proposal for the book, writing, edits, proofs, and the final launch, you have to budget this time accordingly. This will be your dissertation on steroids. I used to think my dissertation (aka Bruce Lee) was massive in length. I remember thinking – oh! I can’t write a 25 page manuscript in this period of time. Book writing will teach you not only to be able to write a lot – but how to budget your time and effort. Be mindful, you will have to work on your book every day – and sometimes in various circumstances and locations. I can’t tell you how many times my writing happened between classes, on planes, or on location at a conference. Weekends and evenings are also key writing times to make deadlines.
- Write what you know (and like!). Gilbert from Anne of Green Gables was right – you should write what you know. Interested in pop culture and social media? Write about it. Passionate about all things crisis communications? Get a book proposal together. Interested in pet influencers? There should be a book on that. I wrote books on social media and PR because these are my areas of expertise. Did I write a book on chemical spills? I think I wouldn’t get past the first page!
If you are interested in writing a book or would like to chat more about it – let me know! Would be happy to answer any additional questions.
Thanks and have a great day!
Best Wishes,
