Law #7: Get Others to Do the Work for You, but Always Take the Credit — A Writer's Guide

Story Marc
Feb 6
4 min read

The seventh law in The 48 Laws of Power is "Get others to do the work for you, but always take the credit." While this might sound ruthless, the underlying principle isn’t about exploitation. For writers, it’s about leveraging collaboration, inspiration, and support systems to amplify your success. By recognizing the value others bring to your work and strategically incorporating their contributions, you can build something greater than you could achieve alone—while ensuring your vision remains front and center.

Let’s unpack how this law applies to your writing career, from storytelling to professional relationships.

Collaboration in Storytelling

No book is written in a vacuum. Editors, beta readers, critique partners, and even the ideas you absorb from other creators all contribute to your process. The key is to integrate these influences to strengthen your work while keeping your unique voice intact.

1. Work with Editors and Beta Readers:

These collaborators provide invaluable feedback that can refine your story and elevate your writing.
Example: J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings benefited from critiques by his close friend C.S. Lewis, who challenged him to clarify and expand certain elements.
Application: Approach feedback as an opportunity to improve. Give credit where it’s due, but ensure the final product reflects your creative vision.

2. Draw Inspiration from Other Creators:

Every writer is influenced by the works they read, watch, or experience. Use this inspiration to fuel your creativity.
Example: George Lucas openly credited Joseph Campbell’s The Hero with a Thousand Faces as a foundation for Star Wars.
Application: Study the masters of your genre and incorporate their techniques into your own storytelling. Make it your own by adding a fresh perspective.

3. Collaborate Without Losing Your Voice:

In co-writing or group projects, ensure your contributions shine through.
Example: In the Good Omens collaboration, Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett maintained their individual styles while blending them seamlessly.
Application: Establish clear roles and communication in collaborative projects to preserve your unique voice.

Leveraging Professional Relationships

Successful authors understand the importance of building and utilizing a network of industry professionals who can help bring their work to life.

1. Build a Team You Trust:

From literary agents to cover designers, surround yourself with people who excel in their fields.
Example: A great agent negotiates deals and connects you with publishers and opportunities you might not access alone.
Application: Research and vet professionals carefully. Collaborate openly, but ensure your vision guides the final product.

2. Delegate Tasks Strategically:

Focus on what you do best—writing—and delegate other responsibilities to experts.
Example: Successful self-published authors often hire professional editors, designers, and marketers to ensure their books meet industry standards.
Application: Invest in professional services to elevate your work while freeing up time to focus on your craft.

3. Credit Without Overshadowing:

While it’s crucial to acknowledge contributions, maintain your status as the driving force behind your work.
Example: In interviews, share how your editor or agent supported you without minimizing your efforts.
Application: Strike a balance between gratitude and confidence. Let people know you value collaboration while owning your success.

Crowdsourcing and Reader Engagement

Modern writers have unique opportunities to involve their readers in the creative process. This not only strengthens your work but also builds loyalty.

1. Use Reader Feedback:

Engaging with beta readers or online communities can provide fresh perspectives and insights.
Example: Andy Weir’s The Martian began as a serialized story on his blog, where reader feedback helped shape the final novel.
Application: Share excerpts or ideas with trusted readers to gauge reactions and refine your story.

2. Host Interactive Campaigns:

Polls, Q&A sessions, or "choose your favorite cover" campaigns can make readers feel invested in your work.
Example: Many authors run fan art contests or ask readers to vote on character names, creating excitement for upcoming releases.
Application: Involve your audience in ways that align with your vision while keeping control of the final product.

3. Build a Supportive Community:

A loyal reader base can be your advocate, spreading the word about your books.
Example: Authors like Brandon Sanderson use Kickstarter to fund projects while building deeper connections with fans.
Application: Cultivate genuine relationships with your audience through newsletters, social media, and events.

Avoiding Pitfalls

While leveraging others’ contributions can enhance your success, there are potential missteps to avoid:

Exploitation:
- Taking advantage of others without acknowledgment or fair compensation can damage your reputation.
- Solution: Be transparent about roles and contributions. Compensate collaborators appropriately.
Over-Reliance:
- Delegating too much can dilute your creative control or make your work feel impersonal.
- Solution: Maintain involvement in key decisions and ensure your voice remains central.
Failing to Give Credit:
- Not acknowledging others’ efforts can alienate collaborators and harm professional relationships.
- Solution: Publicly recognize contributions while positioning yourself as the driving force behind your work.

Conclusion: Collaboration as a Superpower

Law #7, "Get others to do the work for you, but always take the credit," isn’t about selfishness—it’s about recognizing the value of collaboration while maintaining ownership of your creative vision. By leveraging the skills and insights of others, you can elevate your writing and career. The key is to balance gratitude and confidence, ensuring your work benefits from collaboration while remaining unmistakably yours.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #8, "Make other people come to you—use bait if necessary," and how to attract opportunities as a writer. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.