Law #11: Learn to Keep People Dependent on You — A Writer's Guide

The eleventh law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Learn to keep people dependent on you," is about fostering relationships where your value is undeniable. As a writer, this means positioning yourself as an essential creator, collaborator, or storyteller that readers, publishers, and peers cannot imagine doing without. It’s not about manipulation but creating irreplaceable value through your work, brand, and relationships.

Here’s how to apply this law to your writing career and storytelling.

Building Reader Dependence

Your readers are your most important stakeholders. Keeping them engaged and loyal requires consistently delivering value and creating a sense of anticipation.

1. Write Stories That Stick:

• Memorable characters, compelling worlds, and emotionally resonant themes keep readers returning for more.

• Example: J.K. Rowling built a world so rich with detail and emotion that fans continue to engage with the Harry Potter universe years after its conclusion.

• Application: Invest in worldbuilding and character development that feels alive, ensuring your readers want to revisit your work repeatedly.

2. Create a Series:

• Readers get attached to characters and worlds they can follow over multiple books.

• Example: George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series keeps fans invested in its sprawling, interconnected narrative.

• Application: Plan your stories with long-term arcs or sequels in mind to foster sustained interest.

3. Build Emotional Connections:

• Stories that resonate on a deep, emotional level create lasting loyalty.

• Example: Colleen Hoover’s emotionally charged romances create a strong reader-author bond.

• Application: Focus on themes and conflicts that touch on universal human experiences to strengthen reader connections.

Positioning Yourself in the Industry

Making yourself indispensable in the publishing world requires talent and strategic positioning.

1. Be Known for Something Unique:

• Develop a niche or voice that sets you apart.

• Example: Neil Gaiman’s blend of dark fantasy and mythological storytelling makes him irreplaceable in his genre.

• Application: Identify what makes your writing distinct and lean into it in every project.

2. Offer Value Beyond Your Writing:

• Share industry insights, mentor newer writers, or contribute to discussions that establish your expertise.

• Example: Joanna Penn’s author and publishing coachwork has made her a trusted figure in the self-publishing community.

• Application: Create blog posts, videos, or courses that offer value to others, positioning yourself as a go-to resource.

3. Build Strategic Relationships:

• Form relationships with agents, editors, and other authors built on mutual respect and benefit.

• Example: Authors who maintain strong relationships with their publishers are often the first to receive new opportunities.

• Application: Stay professional, reliable, and communicative to ensure others see you as a valuable collaborator.

Fostering Dependence Through Marketing

Your personal brand and marketing strategy should reinforce your value and keep your audience invested.

1. Create Anticipation:

• Tease upcoming projects or share behind-the-scenes glimpses to keep readers intrigued.

• Example: Brandon Sanderson’s Kickstarter campaigns and regular updates create excitement around his releases.

• Application: Use newsletters or social media to keep readers informed and excited about your subsequent work.

2. Offer Exclusive Perks:

• Give your most loyal fans access to unique content or experiences.

• Example: Authors on Patreon often provide early chapters, bonus stories, or signed copies as rewards.

• Application: Reward dedicated readers with extras that make them feel valued and invested in your success.

3. Engage Consistently:

• Regularly interact with your audience to maintain their interest and trust.

• Example: Many authors host Q&A sessions or respond to fan comments, creating a sense of accessibility.

• Application: Develop a consistent communication schedule that keeps readers engaged without overwhelming them.

Dependence in Collaboration

When working with others, make your contributions so essential that your presence feels invaluable.

1. Deliver Exceptional Work:

• Whether working with editors, agents, or co-authors, consistently exceed expectations.

• Example: An author who delivers clean, timely drafts becomes a favorite among editors.

• Application: Treat every collaboration as an opportunity to showcase your professionalism and reliability.

2. Build Trust Through Reliability:

• Be someone others can count on to meet deadlines and follow through on commitments.

• Example: Authors who reliably promote their books and engage with marketing plans strengthen their relationships with publishers.

• Application: Honor your commitments and communicate proactively to maintain trust.

3. Offer Unique Strengths:

• Identify what you bring to a team that no one else can.

• Example: An author with a background in digital marketing might offer insights that enhance a book’s promotional strategy.

• Application: Highlight your strengths and seek opportunities to contribute beyond your writing.

Avoiding Pitfalls

While fostering dependence is powerful, it can backfire if approached unethically or excessively.

• Don’t Manipulate:

  • Creating dependence shouldn’t come at the expense of others’ autonomy or well-being.

  • Solution: Focus on providing genuine value rather than controlling others.

• Avoid Burnout:

  • Trying to be indispensable to everyone can lead to exhaustion.

  • Solution: Set boundaries and prioritize where you invest your energy.

• Stay Authentic:

  • Overhyping yourself can lead to disappointment if your work doesn’t deliver.

  • Solution: Let your actions and results speak for themselves. Build dependence on substance, not fluff.

Conclusion: Becoming Irreplaceable

Law #11, "Learn to keep people dependent on you," is about creating undeniable value in every aspect of your writing career. From crafting stories readers can’t put down to becoming a trusted collaborator in the industry, your goal is to position yourself as someone others need. By focusing on quality, consistency, and meaningful connections, you can build a career where your presence is not just wanted but essential.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #12, "Use selective honesty and generosity to disarm your victim," and how transparency and generosity can build trust and loyalty in the writing world. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.