What’s the hardest part about writing a book? Naming it of course!
Sure, there is the whole challenge of bringing 75,000 words together into a manuscript, but that’s already done. Then there is the editing. I’m sure the page mark-ups will be returned from my publisher soon. Granted, after 8 years of writing for the London Free Press, I know how important editors are and I’ve learned to trust them explicitly, so that stress is off my shoulders.
It can be really difficult to find a traditional publisher. In fact, many authors would say that’s the hardest part of writing a book – getting it published. That’s true, but thankfully after years of promoting and selling my first book, I scored in a huge way with my new publisher who is picking up a second edition of the original Business Cards to Business Relationships: How to Build the Ultimate Network.
The ink is still drying on the contract, so I can’t tell you which publisher it is quite yet…BUT, I can tell you, that out of the top 25 business books in 2011, my new publisher was responsible for 8 of them! Here’s hoping some of their book-selling mojo rubs off on mine. 
Here’s where I need your help:
Today, I got the email asking about my thoughts on the new book’s subtitle! YIKES. I can’t decide. So I thought, why not ask our Canoe.ca blog readers and social networks for some feedback.
Since it’s a second edition, it’s best to keep with the original title of Business Cards to Business Relationships: but the subtitle can change.
About the book:
It follows a similar format to the first edition, focusing on the Pillars of Profitable Networking: Perspective, Personal Brand, Procedures & Strategic Plan. When all four are given consideration, a professional can catapult their career success.
The target demographic is professionals who need to ‘get-out-there’ and network these could. include investment advisors, bankers, accountants, small business owners, job-seekers, lawyers. Or maybe, it’s someone like me, who was working as a receptionist/bartender and was on a mission to get connected and create a new path for my career. Thanks to networking, I was able to do that.
Here are the title ideas so far: (we’d like to include personal branding and profitable networking somehow in the subtitle)
1. Business Cards to Business Relationships: How to Get Connected, Build a Profitable Network & Create your Personal Brand, 2nd Edition
2. Business Cards to Business Relationships: How to Build a Profitable Network & Strong/(Distinct/Powerful/ Solidify Your) Personal Brand, 2nd Edition
3. Business Cards to Business Relationships: Personal Branding & Profitable Networking Made Easy
Thoughts/Ideas? What’s your fave? Which do you like the least?
Do you have any other ideas that reflect the content and would appeal to the target market?
Thanks in advance for being a part of this creative process. Can’t wait to hear your thoughts.
Categories: Allison Graham, Business Books
London
Business Cards to Business Relationships
profitable networking: its not what you know,
its who you know
(and how well you know them!)
I think keeping it simple is best – too many words = not enough attention span to read it. SO – #3 of the above choices.
Piggybacking on your description above you could use: ” Profitable Networking to Catapult your Personal Brand and Career success”.
Good luck!! EMS.
How ’bout “BUSINESS BIOS” (and you can throw in the word ‘Branding’ or “Brands”)) and you would have 3-word “Alliteraion with Allison”.
Ooops ALLITERATION
Allison: of the 3, my vote heavily weighs on #3. Less is more and with a title, you only have a glance to catch someone’s attention and have them truly want to buy it. Personal Branding covers a wide array of potential buyers and “made easy” implies quick results.
Have you thought of a “on-line” course for professionals who can interact with you monthly. Great opportunity for an open forum to engage professionals and grow your brand.
Best of Luck with your new book.
I have the opposite problem of yours, a title without a written transcript……but working on it.