Law #8: Make Other People Come to You—Use Bait if Necessary: A Writer's Guide

The eighth law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Make other people come to you—use bait if necessary," is about positioning yourself as the prize. As a writer, this means creating opportunities where the industry, your readers, and collaborators are drawn to you rather than you constantly chasing them. It’s about understanding how to create demand, set boundaries, and strategically entice others to engage with your work.

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

Positioning Yourself as the Prize

The first step in making others come to you is ensuring your work and brand are magnetic. People should feel that engaging with you is worth their effort.

1. Build an Irresistible Body of Work:

• Your stories are your bait. Focus on creating high-quality, unique, compelling work that readers and industry professionals can’t resist.

• Example: J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series became a phenomenon because of its rich world-building and universal appeal. The books were so compelling that fans and publishers clamored for more.

• Application: Consistently deliver stories that resonate deeply with your audience. Every book should build your reputation as a must-read author.

2. Craft a Strong Author Brand:

• A recognizable and appealing author brand makes people seek you out.

• Example: Leigh Bardugo’s distinctive blend of dark fantasy and elegant marketing has turned her into a household name in YA fantasy.

• Application: Develop a consistent tone, aesthetic, and message across your social media, website, and promotional materials. Make sure your brand reflects the unique essence of your work.

3. Let Success Create Momentum:

• Once you’ve achieved some recognition, use it to draw more opportunities your way.

• Example: Colleen Hoover’s rise to fame through TikTok and her ability to maintain momentum has turned her into a best-selling powerhouse.

• Application: Highlight accolades, reader reviews, and any buzz surrounding your work to attract more attention.

Baiting the Industry

To make agents, publishers, and other industry professionals come to you, you must create intrigue and demonstrate your value.

1. Tease, Don’t Overshare:

• Share just enough about your work to spark curiosity without revealing everything.

• Example: Pitch your story in a way that leaves them wanting to know more: “A detective investigates a murder—but the victim is herself from the future.”

• Application: In query letters, social media posts, or networking events, focus on the hook and the stakes. Keep them intrigued.

2. Leverage Word of Mouth:

• Let others talk about you. The buzz generated by readers, reviewers, or fellow authors can create a magnetic pull around your work.

• Example: When a book becomes a "book club favorite," it gains momentum because others recommend it.

• Application: Encourage early readers and reviewers to share their thoughts and experiences with your work. Provide ARCs to influencers or book bloggers.

3. Maintain an Air of Exclusivity:

• People want what feels rare or unique. Don’t overexpose yourself or your work.

• Example: Authors who limit interviews or signings can create a sense of mystique, making their appearances more sought after.

• Application: Be selective about the events you attend and the opportunities you pursue. Quality over quantity.

Engaging Readers with Bait

Readers are the lifeblood of your career, and keeping them hooked requires strategic engagement.

1. Use Cliffhangers and Serial Content:

• In storytelling, cliffhangers leave readers desperate for the next chapter or book.

• Example: Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games trilogy ends each book with unresolved tension, compelling readers to continue.

• Application: End chapters or books with questions, revelations, or unresolved conflicts that make readers eager for more.

2. Offer Exclusive Content:

• Give your readers something they can’t get elsewhere.

• Example: Bonus chapters, behind-the-scenes looks, or special editions with added content create excitement.

• Application: Use newsletters or Patreon to provide exclusive perks to your most dedicated fans.

3. Tease Future Projects:

• Drop hints about upcoming works to keep your readers engaged.

• Example: Brandon Sanderson’s updates on his multiple projects generate anticipation and keep fans invested in his releases.

• Application: Share small glimpses of your work without giving away too much.

Attracting Opportunities

When you position yourself effectively, opportunities will start to come your way. Here’s how to keep the momentum going:

1. Network Strategically:

• Attend events where agents, editors, or influential authors are present. Let your work speak for itself while making connections.

• Example: Authors often secure deals or collaborations through casual conversations at conferences or retreats.

• Application: Be prepared to talk about your work concisely and compellingly. Make a strong first impression.

2. Be Patient and Selective:

• Avoid chasing every opportunity. Focus on the ones that align with your goals.

• Example: Turning down offers that don’t fit your brand or long-term vision shows confidence and builds your reputation.

• Application: Evaluate opportunities carefully. Don’t be afraid to say no to protect your time and energy.

3. Let Success Speak for Itself:

• A well-received book or high-profile project can draw attention without you having to chase it.

• Example: When a book wins an award or hits a bestseller list, it naturally attracts new readers and opportunities.

• Application: Focus on producing excellent work, and let your achievements create their ripple effects.

Avoiding Pitfalls

While making others come to you is powerful, there are risks if it’s done poorly:

• Overusing Exclusivity:

  • Being too inaccessible can alienate readers or industry professionals.

  • Solution: Balance mystique with approachability. Be available enough to connect meaningfully.

• Becoming Passive:

  • Waiting for opportunities to come to you without putting in the effort to create them can lead to stagnation.

  • Solution: Actively cultivate your brand and engage with your audience while creating opportunities for others to notice you.

• Misusing Bait:

  • Overpromising or misleading with your teasers can damage trust.

  • Solution: Ensure that what you deliver matches the expectations you’ve set.

Conclusion: Becoming a Magnet for Success

Law #8, "Make other people come to you—use bait if necessary," emphasizes the importance of positioning yourself strategically to attract attention and opportunities. By crafting irresistible stories, building a strong brand, and engaging thoughtfully with readers and industry professionals, you can make others seek you out rather than constantly chasing them.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #9, "Win through your actions, never through argument," and how showing rather than telling can enhance your storytelling and professional credibility. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.