Perfect Pairings: Crush It & Get Known Before the Book Deal

It’s pretty rare for me to read a book and think, Wow, this book is the perfect compliment to Get Known.

But I’ve just found one, and now I’m in search of others. Got any ideas for me? Know any books that cover topics that are complimentary to the author-platform topics covered in Get Known?

Here’s my review for Gary Vaynerchuk’s book, Crush It, Why Now Is The Time To Cash In On Your Passion (Harper Studio).

I had heard about Gary Vaynerchuk from a few folks when I decided to attend his talk at Book Expo America 2009. Naturally, my first response was, “Well, this guy is a little over the top for me…but I’ll see what I think.” Far from being put off by Gary, I was charmed by his laid back no-baloney cut-to-the-chase message. It was then that I decided to get and read his book. Now that I’ve read “Crush It,” I’m convinced that, like Seth Godin’s books “Permission Marketing” and “Tribes,” “Crush It” is a book that everyone needs to read. And hey, if you are at all down in the dumps after what has been a tough year for many, I highly recommend that you drop whatever you are doing and read this book. I’m not sure that passion can replace a paycheck in anything less than six months to a year, but certainly, if you have ever contemplated that possibility, this book will give you the nudge you need to focus on your strengths and turn them into prosperity. I look forward to reading more of Gary’s books, which I hope will be coming down the publishing pipe soon.

Why do I think Crush It! is a nice compliment to Get Known? Well, in Get Known, I focus on finding a niche that can result in a traditional book deal. Whereas in Crush It!, Gary focuses on finding what you are passionate about and then turning that love into work. Obviously, since his passion turned into a huge multi-book deal, his method works, as well. (Okay, perhaps a bit more effectively than mine.)

But let’s not forget that Mr. Vaynerchuk, just like every bestselling author I’ve ever heard of has been working on his platform tirelessly for many years. Consistent hard work is still going to be the best indicator of future success whether you are blogging or writing for a book in partnership with a publishing house.

And finally, I agree with Gary’s definition of passion. I also like his explanation of DNA and how it impacts choices and decisions in business. And, probably the most important point, I like Gary. He’s present, he’s energetic, and he keeps things real.

I think every writer should read Crush It! as we head into 2010 and then read Get Known. They make a great one-two combination.