Monetize Beyond Books: 7 Revenue Streams for Authors

 

Your book is your passion, a world you’ve meticulously crafted. But in today's competitive market, relying solely on book sales can be a slow and uncertain path to financial success. The modern author is an entrepreneur, building a brand and a business around their creative work. The good news? Your author platform is a launchpad for a multitude of income opportunities.

It's time to think beyond the page and unlock new revenue streams that not only boost your income but also deepen your connection with your readers. Here are seven powerful ways to monetize your authorship, complete with quick-start checklists to get you going.

 

1. Merchandise for Your Readers

 

Your readers don't just love your stories; they love the world you've built. Merchandise allows them to take a piece of that world home. From t-shirts with memorable quotes to mugs featuring your book's cover art, merch can be a fun and profitable way to engage your fanbase.

Quick-Start Checklist:

  • Brainstorm Ideas: What are the most iconic elements of your books? Think quotes, symbols, character names, or inside jokes that your readers would appreciate.

  • Design Your Merch: You don't need to be a design expert. Use tools like Canva to create simple, text-based designs, or hire a freelance designer on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork for more elaborate artwork.

  • Choose a Print-on-Demand Service: Services like Printful, Teespring, and Zazzle handle the printing, shipping, and customer service for you. You simply upload your designs and set your prices.

  • Promote to Your Audience: Announce your new merch store to your email list and social media followers. Wear your own merch in author photos and at events.

 

2. Create and Sell Online Courses

 

As an author, you have a wealth of knowledge to share. Whether it's the intricacies of world-building, the art of crafting compelling characters, or the secrets to navigating the publishing world, there's an audience eager to learn from you.

Quick-Start Checklist:

  • Identify Your Expertise: What do people frequently ask you about? What aspect of writing or publishing do you feel most confident teaching?

  • Outline Your Course: Break down your topic into a series of logical, easy-to-digest modules and lessons.

  • Choose a Platform: User-friendly platforms like Teachable, Thinkific, and Podia make it simple to create, host, and sell your online courses.

  • Create Your Content: You can create video lessons, written materials, worksheets, and quizzes. Start small with a mini-course to test the waters.

  • Launch and Market: Promote your course to your existing audience. Consider offering an early-bird discount to generate initial sales.

 

3. Build a Community with Patreon

 

Patreon allows your most dedicated readers to support you directly with a monthly subscription. In return, you offer them exclusive content and a behind-the-scenes look at your creative process. It's a fantastic way to build a tight-knit community and generate a steady, predictable income.

Quick-Start Checklist:

  • Define Your Tiers: Create 2-4 membership tiers with increasing rewards. Think about what you can realistically offer on a consistent basis.

  • Determine Your Rewards: Offer a mix of digital and physical rewards, such as early access to chapters, bonus content, signed bookplates, exclusive Q&As, or even personalized video messages.

  • Set Up Your Page: Create a compelling Patreon page with a clear description of who you are and what you're offering. A personal video message can be very effective.

  • Promote Your Patreon: Regularly mention your Patreon in your newsletters, on social media, and at the back of your books.

 

4. Share Your Expertise Through Speaking Gigs

 

Your author status positions you as an expert in your field. This opens the door to paid speaking opportunities at conferences, workshops, libraries, schools, and corporate events.

Quick-Start Checklist:

  • Develop Your Topics: What are 2-3 topics you can speak on confidently and passionately? These could be related to your book's themes or your writing journey.

  • Create a Speaker Page: Add a "Speaking" page to your author website with your topics, a short bio, and a professional headshot. Include a video of you speaking if you have one.

  • Start Local: Reach out to local libraries, schools, and community organizations. These are great places to gain experience and build your speaking portfolio.

  • Network: Attend writers' conferences and industry events to connect with event organizers.

 

5. Leverage Affiliate Partnerships

 

Affiliate marketing is a simple way to earn a commission by recommending products and services you already use and love. This could include your favorite writing software, research tools, or even other authors' books.

Quick-Start Checklist:

  • Identify Potential Partners: Make a list of products and services you genuinely recommend. Check if they have an affiliate program. Amazon Associates is a popular choice for authors.

  • Sign Up for Programs: The application process is usually straightforward. Once approved, you'll receive unique affiliate links.

  • Promote Authentically: Weave your affiliate links naturally into your blog posts, newsletters, and social media content. For example, in a blog post about your writing process, you could link to the software you use.

  • Disclose Your Links: Always be transparent with your audience by disclosing that you may earn a commission from your links.

 

6. Offer Coaching or Consulting Services

 

Your skills as a storyteller, world-builder, or marketer are valuable. Offer one-on-one coaching or consulting services to aspiring writers or fellow authors.

Quick-Start Checklist:

  • Define Your Services: What specific problem can you help someone solve? This could be anything from plot development to building an author platform.

  • Create Your Packages: Offer clear packages with set deliverables and pricing. For example, a "Plotting Package" could include a one-hour call and a written critique of an outline.

  • Add a "Services" Page to Your Website: Clearly describe what you offer, who it's for, and how to book a session with you.

  • Promote Your Services: Mention your coaching services in your newsletter and on social media. Share testimonials from happy clients to build credibility.

 

7. Expand Your Reach with Freelance Writing

 

As an author, you're a skilled writer. Leverage this by offering your services as a freelance writer. This can provide a steady income stream while you work on your next book.

Quick-Start Checklist:

  • Identify Your Niche: Do you have expertise in a particular industry? Focusing on a niche can help you command higher rates.

  • Create a Portfolio: Showcase your best writing samples on your author website or on a platform like Contently.

  • Find Gigs: Look for freelance writing opportunities on job boards like Upwork, Fiverr, and ProBlogger.

  • Network with Other Writers: Join online communities and forums for freelance writers to share advice and find leads.