When to write a book, pt. 4 – Establish Authority, pt. 2: With Students

Apr 20, 2012 by Lona

The idea of a college professor needing to publish is old and established, and yet shockingly most do not. This is a serious mistake, considering the advent of such sites as rateyourprofessor.com and other such resources – students don’t choose classes or professors on word of mouth anymore. Before taking any class, 87% of all students do some preliminary reaserch online. It’s no longer impressive if you’ve published a book. Instead, it is now simply a mark against you if you have NOT.

On the other hand, the idea of a high school or grade school teacher having published is not so established. It is, however, an excellent way to establish authority. Your student’s parents are much more likely to give your advice credence if you can send a copy of your book home with them, and you transition from “I had her for fifth grade” to “she was my teacher in fifth grade and her book changed my life.”