Why I Believe Everyone Needs a Platform!

Confused yet? 

I write about spiritual issues. So why am I so excited about a book that isn't about that? I am excited because Platform: Getting Noticed in a Noisy World has opened me up to a world of possibilities in ministry. 

This book is written by Michael Hyatt, chairman of Thomas Nelson Publishing, author, blogger, and Christian. Michael blogs about intentional leadership and social media at MichaelHyatt.com.

I got a free copy from Michael in hopes I would review it here, on this site, and to be honest I was thrilled. (I have not been paid to say all these flowery things, I honestly believe them, and fully endorse this book without monetary gain) I poured over this book and took copious notes. 

I wept at the insight Michael has into writers, and I squealed with delight over both the small and big things I can do to improve and grow this ministry: all of which I learned reading this book. 

There are so many things I have done right and many I have done wrong on this blog. Michael has been there too! I identified with him every step of the way because he has been where I am: just starting out. 

Now he speaks to hundreds of thousands every day! I want that! 

But this book is not just for writers! 

This book is for anyone who wants to sell a product, grow a brand, share a message, or just be heard in this noisy world! Since everyone needs to be heard, this means YOU! 

Learn how to: 
· Start with a WOW 
· Prepare to Launch 
· Build your Home base 
· Expand your Reach 
· Engage your Tribe 

I honestly believe every youth pastor, pastor, marketer, musician, artist, actor, writer, or (fill in _______ here) should read this book! 

Get Started NOW!

Buy this book today through midnight May 25th, CDT, and you can receive $375.98 worth of free tools and resources direct from Michael Hyatt, himself. This is not a gimmick! Time for this offer may have passed, but you can still buy a copy here.  I got a free eCopy and I am still investing in a hard copy! I believe in this book that much! 

Don’t you have something that you want to share with the world? 

• A message? 
• A talent? 
• A product? 
• All three? 

You have something unique to give and a purpose for your life. This book can equip you with practical step by step instructions to get from where you are now to the fulfillment of your dream. 

What are you waiting for? 

I was intimidated at first too. I love to talk, but the idea of marketing my “brand” and message seemed self-aggrandizing. Believe me, I understand your trepidation, but I hope you will buy it anyway. No one can make your dream happen but you. 

You have the talent. You are called with a purpose. Now you need the tools. 

What could you accomplish if you had the Platform?

Take Responsibility (for Your Platform!)

Today's blog is written by Dana Pittman and gives you a peek into a book that is changing the way I blog forever! Read what she has to say. 

The problem: You have a product (i.e., book, organization, service, etc.) you want to share in this extremely noisy, overcrowded world. The solution (per Michael Hyatt) is (1) a compelling product and (2) a significant platform. 

“This book [Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World]is all about attracting that audience, turning on the brightest lights you can find, and building passionate loyalty so your audience stays with you through every line, every scene, every act” (Michael Hyatt). 

In the book Michael presents the platform building process in five steps:

1. Start with WOW
2. Prepare to Launch
3. Build Your Home Base
4. Expand Your Reach
5. Engage Your Tribe

The book has 60 chapters. Yes, 60. But much like his blog, they read quick with lists and packed with information. 

I also like that the sections can stand alone. I can easily see myself going back and reading the chapters as I work through the steps. 

As the reader, you feel like Michael sits comfy on your couch or at your desk and walks you through the process--step-by-step. He takes a practical approach to a problem that is heavily addressed with theory, numbers, and somewhat illusive for a non-celeb, small business owner, small publishers…(fill in the blank). 

“It [platform building] is about…finding the most powerful way to getting that message to others who can benefit from it” (Michael Hyatt).

The book captures Michael’s strength as a visionary, a leader and he does not take a haphazard approach to attracting and engaging your potential audience. This book will limit your excuses because he literally walks you through the process. Additionally, you get a great view of how individual components work to affect the whole picture. Meaning, for example, how does using Twitter benefit your overall marketing plan. 

His approach is realistic and what I appreciate most is it wasn't all about throwing money at the problem. It is all about focused work toward reaching and winning over the audience you desire.

I highly recommend this book. I believe it will quickly be your go-to book for building, maintaining and/or expanding your audience.

Dana Pittman is a blogger, a mother, a homeschooler, and a Christian. She blogs at http://www.danapittman.com/