Author: Mariam Noronha
The recent meltdown has impacted all of us, directly or indirectly. While job losses mount there seems to be trouble everywhere; at home, at work, relationships, health, savings and investments. However, there’s one industry where the cash counters are ringing loud and clear…the self-help industry.
It pays to be a self-help guru and writers would do well to cash in on this opportunity.
Just so you know how serious a business opportunity this is, you will be surprised to know that recent research has shown that Americans invested around $11 billion in 2008 in self-improvement products and services such as CDs, books, seminars, training and programs that helped them cope with stress, job losses, divorce, et al.
Judging by the way things are at present and are expected to be in the near future, counsellors, psychologists, trainers and self-help practitioners look like the only ones who will continue to be in demand. Spurred by a spurt in people looking for “psychological sustenance” the demand for advice on “how to fix” things seems to be moving only one way and that is upwards.
Many believe that difficult times are when people look for answers to their problems. They want everything to be better…marriages, relationships, communication skills, finances, physical and mental well-being and parenting among other things. Little wonder then that the “celebrities” today are people like Deepak Chopra, Robin Sharma, Paulo Coelho, Stephen Covey and Rhonda Byrne.
If you thought this is just a passing phase then here are a few research findings that will bust this myth:
- Many of the people and firms in the self-help business are believed to have been around since 1930 and most of them are still doing roaring business!
- The most likely buyers of self-help products/services are people who have bought such aids before. Even better, they are likely to repeat their purchase at least once in 18 months.
Here’s how writers can make the most of these trying times by jumping on to the self-help bandwagon:
- Follow one simple rule: if you know something about fixing anything, you can turn that into a guide for people looking for help and advice in that area.
- In the end it’s all about money so those of you who know a thing or two about good investment strategies, insurance or prudent spending can help millions of people who are struggling to secure their future in a bleak scenario. It’s a good idea to concentrate on niche areas like “cutting corners at home” by giving people tips on how to redecorate by simply giving their old furnishings a new look or using attractive jam bottles and tins as vases, etc. Don’t be afraid to put simple ideas and tips across for fear that they will be rejected because if it worked for you it can work for others too. Dole out the advice you’ll be surprised by how many people are waiting to lap it up!
- Relationships are bearing the brunt of this meltdown and everyone wants to know how they can keep the people in their lives in good humour. It is now more than ever that people want to please their spouse, bosses, partners, etc. Dip into your personal experiences or ask others to pen your own little book to help readers with their relationships.
- Weddings, funerals, going to college, finding part-time work; all these events are going to take place irrespective of the state of the economy. Those of you who are creative enough to plan an inexpensive wedding or smart enough to help people look for moonlighting options can turn your ideas into a lucrative book deal.
Frankly, the options are endless and it’s all about your ability to turn your experience or advice into a self-help book that will make someone’s life easier! So go ahead, cash in!
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