I like to think I’ve conquered impostor syndrome, but any time I give interviews, reach out to someone with a research question, or try to set up local author events, I feel awkward and out of place. How do I confidently approach professionals outside the author community?
Out of My Element
Dear Out of My Element,
My dear elemental friend, reaching beyond our cozy author circles can indeed feel as precarious as a hobbit venturing into the wilds without Gandalf. All those big co-marketing events, media interviews, and research convos can feel like you’re stumbling ill prepared into an orc den. How’s a gentle book nerd to navigate?
Just like Frodo and friends, you simply must muster bravery and plunge into those unknown territories. After all, what’s an epic adventure without testing your courage or trusting in the offered help of a friendly elf?
I have been around this author block a few times, and the one constant complaint I hear in the snug tea rooms and neon-lit bars fellow authors inhabit is that every one of us battles impostor syndrome—even those seemingly confident six- and seven-figure authors whose beautiful, smiling faces grace the cover of this illustrious tome.
We all inevitably face the same questions and doubts. Will the next book fail? Will my fans accept my new direction? Has Amazon confused my royalties with someone else’s? And no one enjoys public speaking! I defy anyone to tell me differently. The most seasoned professional entertainers talk of feeling butterflies in their stomachs before every show.
Therein, my dear, lies the point. You feel nauseated and unsteady because you care. You are cautious because you are a good person and do not wish to offend. You are a writer because you are sensitive and passionate, and these traits, though excellent assets in any character, make you a prime candidate for nerves and insecurities.
So how do you manage it? First, prepare yourself like the fellowship readying for departure from Rivendell. Study up on who you’ll be encountering and their ways. Are they Hollywood hotshots or university intellectuals? If you’re giving an interview, brush up on proper etiquette and likely interests, so you can engage confidently. If you’re signing up for an event, research themes, topics, and what makes that event unique in the marketplace. Ask yourself how you will add value to those attending.
Next, assemble your own trusty company of allies. Consult wise mentors—other authors, perhaps—who have trod similar paths before. What counsel do they offer? Recruit encouraging friends and critique partners as hype hobbits believing in your quest.
Then channel your inner Samwise Gamgee, ever loyal despite trembling in Mordor’s shadow. Stay focused on your worthy mission: growing your platform and fanbase by connecting with new audiences. Fake that confidence until it becomes unshakable. We all feel the fear, but as American psychologist and author Susan Jeffers suggests, the secret is to do it anyway.
Frodo had Sam. Who is your biggest cheerleader? Consider what they would say to you whenever you doubt yourself. Nod sagely at their advice and pick up that phone, hit “Send” on that email, or put your best foot forward on that stage. They believe you can do it, and so should you.
And should nerves still jangle, remember even protagonists stumble! The great Luke Skywalker withered under Sith browbeating. Buffy wilted against the toughest Big Bads. Pivotal failures shape the heroes we adore—and those we craft.
So brace yourself, my hobbit friend! While these battles may loom dauntingly, the boons awaiting those who persevere turn them into shire mountains worth scaling. Trust your courage, and commence your calling!
Over Hiccup Hill and Underhill,
Happy writing,
Indie Annie
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