Law #13: When Asking for Help, Appeal to Self-Interest — A Writer's Guide

Story Marc
Feb 6
4 min read

The thirteenth law in The 48 Laws of Power, "When asking for help, appeal to self-interest," highlights a crucial truth: people are far more willing to help you when they see how it benefits them. For writers, this principle applies to building professional relationships, working with collaborators, and even engaging your readers. By framing your requests for mutual gain, you create win-win scenarios that foster goodwill and cooperation.

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

Framing Requests in the Publishing Industry

The publishing world is built on relationships. Whether you’re querying agents, pitching editors, or collaborating with designers, understanding their goals and aligning your requests with their self-interest is key.

1. Tailor Your Query Letters:

When querying agents, show them why your book aligns with their interests and goals.
Example: Instead of saying, “I worked hard on this book and hope you’ll read it,” frame it as, “My novel aligns with the type of stories you’ve successfully represented, such as [specific example]. I believe it will resonate with readers who love [specific genre/trope].”
Application: Research agents thoroughly and reference specific titles or genres they’ve worked on to demonstrate why your book fits their list.

2. Pitch Editors with Market Potential:

Editors want books that sell. Highlight why your story has commercial or niche appeal.
Example: “My novel taps into the growing demand for diverse, character-driven fantasy, as seen in recent bestsellers like [similar title].”
Application: Frame your pitch to show how your book meets market trends or fills a gap in the publisher’s current offerings.

3. Collaborate Effectively with Designers or Marketers:

When working with cover designers or marketing professionals, communicate how their expertise will enhance the project’s success.
Example: “Your bold, modern designs are exactly what I envision for capturing my target audience. I believe this collaboration could set the tone for a standout campaign.”
Application: Recognize their strengths and articulate how their work contributes to mutual success.

Engaging Readers with Self-Interest

Readers invest their time and money in books that promise value to them. You can build a loyal audience by understanding their needs and framing your work as the answer.

1. Highlight Reader Benefits:

When promoting your book, focus on what readers will gain—entertainment, escapism, or insight.
Example: Instead of saying, “This book took me years to write,” say, “This story offers a heart-pounding adventure for fans of fast-paced thrillers.”
Application: Craft your marketing copy to emphasize the reader’s experience, not just your effort.

2. Offer Incentives for Engagement:

Encourage readers to leave reviews, join your newsletter, or share your work by offering something in return.
Example: “Sign up for my newsletter to receive a free short story set in the world of my novel.”
Application: Provide tangible or exclusive rewards that make readers feel valued and appreciated.

3. Create Emotional Connections:

Show readers how your work aligns with their values, interests, or experiences.
Example: “If you’ve ever struggled to find your place in the world, this book will resonate deeply with you.”
Application: Use your promotional materials to connect emotionally with your audience, framing your story as fulfilling a need or desire.

Collaborating with Other Writers

Fellow writers can be incredible allies, but they’re more likely to support you if they see how it benefits them, too.

1. Build Reciprocal Relationships:

Offer help in exchange for help.
Example: “I’d love to beta-read your manuscript in exchange for your feedback on mine.”
Application: Ensure your requests feel balanced and fair, benefiting both parties.

2. Share Resources:

Recommend tools, books, or contacts that have helped you; others will be more likely to do the same for you.
Example: “Here’s a great resource I used to find my cover designer. Let me know if you have any leads for audiobook narrators.”
Application: Create a culture of generosity that encourages mutual support.

3. Amplify Each Other’s Work:

Promote other writers’ books or projects, and they’ll often return the favor.
Example: Share a fellow author’s book launch on social media, tagging them and highlighting why you loved it.
Application: Actively support your peers, framing it as a partnership that benefits both of you.

Balancing Authenticity and Strategy

Appealing to self-interest doesn’t mean being manipulative. The key is to align your goals with others in a way that feels genuine and mutually beneficial.

1. Be Transparent About Mutual Benefits:

Clearly articulate how your request benefits both parties.
Example: “By partnering on this book signing event, we can reach a broader audience and cross-promote our work.”
Application: Frame your collaboration as a shared opportunity.

2. Show Genuine Appreciation:

Gratitude goes a long way in building trust and goodwill.
Example: After receiving help, publicly thank the person or write a heartfelt note expressing your appreciation.
Application: Always acknowledge the efforts of others, reinforcing the positive dynamic.

3. Avoid One-Sided Relationships:

Don’t make every interaction about what you need. Focus on building genuine connections.
Example: Take the time to ask about others’ projects and offer help without expecting immediate returns.
Application: Balance your requests with generosity and interest in others’ work.

Avoiding Pitfalls

While appealing to self-interest is a powerful strategy, there are potential risks to navigate:

Avoid Being Overly Transactional:
- Relationships that feel purely transactional can lack depth and trust.
- Solution: Focus on long-term connections, not just immediate gains.
Don’t Overpromise:
- Offering benefits you can’t deliver undermines trust.
- Solution: Be realistic about what you can provide and follow through on your commitments.
Recognize Genuine Generosity:
- Not everyone operates from self-interest. Misjudging someone’s motives can damage a relationship.
- Solution: Tailor your approach to the individual. Some people value shared goals over personal gain.

Conclusion: Aligning Goals for Mutual Success

Law #13, "When asking for help, appeal to self-interest," is about understanding the motivations of others and creating win-win scenarios. As a writer, you can build stronger connections with readers, collaborators, and industry professionals by framing your requests in ways that align with their goals and values. You foster relationships that support your long-term success by focusing on mutual benefit and genuine appreciation.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #14, "Pose as a friend, work as a spy," and how observing and understanding your audience and industry can give you a strategic edge. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.