Creating a magnetic non-fiction author voice: What you need to know

In nonfiction writing, your author's voice is pivotal in how your message is received. The unique style reflects your personality and makes your work stand out.

I hear many aspiring authors question whether they have a unique voice or point of view.

Hasn't everything been said already?" is a common question.

You each have a unique voice, perspective, and set of experiences, and the world needs to hear them. You can make an impact, one reader at a time.

First, I need you to accept that you do, in fact, have a unique voice—one that needs to be heard. Then, I'll share practical tips for finding and creating your authentic author voice.

Understanding Author Voice in Nonfiction

Before diving into the craft, it's crucial to understand what 'author voice' means. Unlike the topic or content, the author's voice is the unique way you express your ideas. It's your fingerprint in writing—your tone, style, and personality bringing your writing to life. Think of it as the lens through which your audience perceives your narrative.

Your unique voice will attract your ideal readers to you - which in non-fiction books means magnetizing ideal clients to get to know you via your writing.

Why a Unique Author Voice Matters

Having a distinctive author voice is not just a stylistic choice; it's a necessity. A unique voice makes your work memorable, builds trust with your reader, and differentiates you from countless other nonfiction authors. It's the heartbeat of engaging storytelling and effective communication.

Thinking about why your author's voice is essential brings me back to college. Remember browsing the course catalog and coming across Physics for Poets? I lit up when I saw that, and I smile now thinking about it.

It speaks to me in a way that hardcore, traditional physics courses can't – they would indeed induce brain freeze in my creative mind. Yet for a linear, scientific type mind, Physics for Poets would sound silly at best, and the standard physics course would be the obvious, only choice.

The same is true for your potential readers. They are a diverse group. They all may share an interest in your topic, yet they want and need to hear it in a way that is most appealing, approachable, and relatable to them. There is room for a variety of other courses on physics beyond the traditional or poet-oriented ones – just like your book.

There is an audience for everything; our job as writers is to do the work and provide readers with a choice." -?Elizabeth Hernandez

Authors often try to appeal to everyone, which is a mistake. As an entrepreneur or business owner, you have defined your target audience – who you want to serve. The same is necessary for a successful nonfiction author.

Steps to Finding Your Author Voice for Nonfiction

Finding your author voice can be a daunting task, but it's achievable with some structured steps:

• Know Your Audience: Understanding who you're writing for helps tailor your voice to meet their expectations, and be able to have your book create a more significant impact
• Read Extensively: Exposure to various styles can help you discern what resonates with you and what doesn't.
• Write Regularly: Practice is critical. The more you write, the more comfortable you'll become with your voice.
• Seek Feedback: Peer reviews can provide valuable insights into how your voice is perceived. Social media posts that generate a lot of feedback may offer insights into your ideal reader and what resonates with them
• Be Authentic: Authenticity makes your voice more compelling. Don't try to mimic other writers; stay true to yourself.
• Include stories and case studies - Including anecdotes and personal stories can make your writing more relatable and memorable. You have unique stories that only you can tell.
• Don't be afraid to state your opinion or point of view—it's what makes you unique and will help you stand out and attract people. Whether people agree with you or not, they respect you for sharing your perspective and point of view.

Finding and developing your author voice for nonfiction is a journey of self-discovery and continuous improvement. By understanding what makes your voice unique and actively working to refine it, you can create compelling, memorable nonfiction works that resonate with your audience. Remember, your voice is your signature—make it unmistakably yours.

Want help finding your author's voice? I can help. Here is what a client said about working with me on this:

I was able to get the structure of my book right, and then to actually get it written and published. Had I not engaged Jane, I am certain I would not be a published author today." - Wendy Ryan, CEO Kadabra, author Learn Lead Lift - an International Book Award finalist