Law #6: Court Attention at All Costs — A Writer's Guide

The sixth law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Court attention at all costs," highlights the value of visibility. Being talented isn’t enough as a writer—you also need to stand out. In a crowded marketplace, your ability to attract and sustain attention can make or break your career. But courting attention doesn’t mean being obnoxious or gimmicky. It’s about understanding how to strategically position yourself and your work so that people take notice.

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

Building Your Author Brand

Courting attention starts with crafting a memorable and consistent brand as a writer. This brand is how readers perceive you and your work.

1. Define Your Unique Selling Point (USP):

What makes you different from other authors in your genre? Is it your narrative voice, themes, or ability to subvert tropes?

Example: Colleen Hoover has built a brand around emotionally charged, character-driven romances that keep readers hooked. Her USP is delivering intense, relatable stories with emotional depth.

Application: Reflect on what sets your work apart. Highlight this unique aspect in your marketing, social media, and pitches.

2. Create a Consistent Aesthetic:

Your branding should extend to your website, book covers, and social media presence. Consistency reinforces recognition.

Example: V.E. Schwab’s sleek, dark, and polished aesthetic matches the tone of her fantasy novels, creating a cohesive image.

Application: Choose a visual and thematic style that aligns with your work and use it across all platforms.

3. Leverage Social Media Wisely:

Social media is one of the most powerful tools for gaining visibility. Choose platforms that align with your audience and post regularly.

Example: R.F. Kuang engages with her audience on Twitter by sharing writing insights, engaging with fan theories, and promoting her books with humor and authenticity.

Application: Develop a content strategy that includes a mix of personal anecdotes, writing updates, and promotional content.

Using Storytelling to Capture Attention

Your writing itself is one of your best tools for capturing attention. Compelling storytelling naturally draws readers in and keeps them coming back.

1. Hook Readers Immediately:

The opening of your book is crucial. A strong hook grabs attention and compels readers to keep going.

Example: Jim Butcher’s Blood Rites opens with, "The building was on fire, and it wasn't my fault."

Application: Pay special attention to your first line, paragraph, and chapter. Revise until they’re irresistible.

2. Create Memorable Characters:

Unique, relatable, or larger-than-life characters stick with readers and make your work stand out.

Example: Sherlock Holmes’s sharp intellect and eccentric personality have made him a cultural icon for over a century.

Application: Build characters with distinct traits, motivations, and quirks that leave a lasting impression.

3. Incorporate Bold Ideas:

Stories that tackle daring themes or explore fresh concepts are more likely to stand out.

Example: Octavia Butler’s exploration of race, gender, and power in her sci-fi novels made her a trailblazer in the genre.

Application: Push boundaries in your storytelling. Don’t be afraid to address challenging topics or experiment with form and structure.

Gaining Visibility in the Industry

Attention isn’t just about readers; it’s also about catching the eye of industry professionals like agents, editors, and publishers.

1. Network with Intention:

Attend conferences, webinars, or local writing groups to build connections. The more visible you are in professional circles, the more opportunities arise.

Example: Many authors credit conferences like AWP or book fairs to connect them with agents and publishers.

Application: Approach networking with a mindset of mutual value. Be genuinely interested in others while sharing your work confidently.

2. Create Buzz Around Your Work:

Build anticipation for your projects through teasers, cover reveals, or early reviews.

Example: Taylor Jenkins Reid’s The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo gained buzz through its intriguing premise and early praise from influential reviewers.

Application: Plan a promotional timeline that builds excitement before your book launch.

3. Position Yourself as an Expert:

Share your writing, storytelling, or genre knowledge to establish credibility and attract attention.

Example: Authors like Chuck Wendig and Joanna Penn have built large followings by sharing writing tips and industry insights.

Application: Write articles, start a blog, or create videos that showcase your expertise.

Maintaining Attention

Capturing attention is just the beginning. Sustaining it requires consistency and ongoing engagement.

1. Deliver on Promises:

Follow through if you’ve promised a book by a certain date or teased a specific project.

Example: Brandon Sanderson’s reputation for prolific output and transparency keeps his readers loyal.

Application: Set realistic expectations and communicate updates.

2. Engage with Your Audience:

Respond to reader comments, share behind-the-scenes glimpses, or host Q&A sessions to foster connection.

Example: Authors like Neil Gaiman regularly answer fan questions on social media, deepening their connection with readers.

Application: Build genuine relationships with your audience while maintaining professional boundaries.

3. Keep Evolving:

Stay relevant by experimenting with new ideas, formats, or genres while staying true to your brand.

Example: Margaret Atwood’s ability to pivot between novels, poetry, and television adaptations has kept her at the forefront of literature.

Application: Challenge yourself creatively and professionally to keep your audience engaged.

Potential Pitfalls

Courting attention is powerful, but it can backfire if done poorly. Here’s what to avoid:

• Don’t Be Gimmicky:

  • Cheap stunts may grab attention temporarily but can damage your credibility.

  • Solution: Focus on authentic, meaningful ways to engage your audience.

• Avoid Controversy for Its Own Sake:

  • Stirring up drama can alienate readers and industry professionals.

  • Solution: If controversy arises, handle it with grace and professionalism.

• Don’t Overexpose Yourself:

  • Sharing too much too often can lead to audience fatigue.

  • Solution: Be strategic about when and how you share content.

Conclusion: The Power of Visibility

Law #6, "Court attention at all costs," emphasizes that in writing, being visible is just as important as being talented. You can ensure your work stands out in a crowded marketplace by crafting a memorable brand, telling compelling stories, and engaging strategically with readers and industry professionals.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #7, "Get others to do the work for you, but always take the credit," and how collaboration and delegation can amplify your success as a writer. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.