Thought leadership takes many forms, and there are a multiplicity of channels to get the word out there about a concept, a person or a product. Since our founding in 2001, we have partnered with countless authors, individuals and organizations looking to leverage a book to expand the reach of their voice.
There is ample opportunity for thought leaders to get their ideas into book form, but navigating the publishing world can be tricky. Further, complementing or creating a thought leadership platform with a book requires strategic and intentional efforts. Here are some examples of authors who have successfully navigated – or are in the process of navigating – the challenging path to launching a published work into the world.
CTA: Inspiring the Next Chapter in Tech Innovation
Pinkston has worked with the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) for over a decade to broaden the organization’s thought leadership efforts, particularly for its president and chief executive officer, Gary Shapiro. We approached developing a book as part of a larger campaign to position Shapiro as an authoritative voice in the technology industry. Shapiro’s first release, “The Comeback: How Innovation Will Restore the American Dream.” explained how innovation should be at the center of America's economic policy and went on to become a New York Times bestseller. He followed this book with 2015’s Ninja Innovation: The Ten Killer Strategies of the World's Most Successful Businesses and 2019’s Ninja Future: Secrets to Success in the New World of Innovation; we also support his colleague Shawn DuBravac’s Digital Destiny: How the New Age of Data Will Transform the Way We Work, Live, and Communicate—each of which became bestsellers.
3Pillar: Changing the Way Businesses Think
3Pillar Global builds software products that power digital businesses. Its chief executive officer, David H. DeWolf, came to us to build momentum around a book concept that would expand his thought leadership on the digital economy. The Product Mindset, DeWolf’s brainchild, breaks down why businesses must adapt to constant demands for new and updated products while also describing the link between a company’s products and its characteristics. The team had begun a private publishing process when Pinkston was brought onboard. Not only did we work with the 3Pillar to tighten up the writing and get the book across the finish line, but it was part of a larger omnichannel effort to promote 3Pillar and its key messages through social media, speaking engagements, and bylined content.
Spark: The Business Book You’ll Actually Want to Read
In July 2022, Pinkston’s work with entrepreneurs Chris Mettler and Jon Yarian of Sovereign culminated in a book deal with Bloomsbury, a global leader in nonfiction publishing. Their book, Spark: 24 Concepts to Start, Unstick or Superpower Your Career, will be available in Spring 2023. We worked with the authors to refine their idea and manuscript and craft a comprehensive book proposal that garnered interest from multiple publishers. We look forward to working with Chris and Jon through the launch of the book next year (it’s going to be big!).
Because creating your first manuscript can be a challenge, Pinkston Books launched in 2021 to give writers the guidance and support they need to get their ideas into print. Taking a comprehensive approach, we’ve expanded our traditional publicity experience to work with authors through the entire book-writing, publication, and marketing process. This includes help in developing a book proposal to secure a literary agent; private publishing deals with our imprint, Elyon Books; and multifaceted book launch campaigns.