Brian Friedl uses his writing to help others grow in their Christian faith. Learn more about the importance of building your author network early.

1. Tell me briefly about your latest book – what is it about and what motivated you to write it?

Mission Possible: Living A Life That Matters is the result of over 20 years of helping others to discover their God-given purpose.  It takes readers on a journey from the basics (Bootcamp) through their individualized Vision Building (Advanced Individual Training).  This study works well independently or even better in a small group setting.  I recently completed a study through it with 42 men from around the country.  I love seeing God’s children grow and become world-changers!

2. How have your sales been?

Sales have been good and always spike when I’m leading a study or speaking to a group online or in person.

3. You’ve chosen self-publishing.  How have you liked it so far?  Talk about some of the positives and negatives you’ve encountered.

I have thoroughly enjoyed self-publishing and have found it to be rewarding to be engaged in every part of the process.  The only drawback was the time it took me to figure out how to complete each of the steps while balancing everyday life.

4. What sort of networking have you done as an author, and what have been the results?

I have joined several Facebook groups and have made connections at every event I attend.  This has led to more speaking opportunities, radio interviews, as well as opportunities to co-write with other authors.

5. Talk a little about the sort of marketing techniques you’ve used to sell your books.  Which ones have been most successful?

I’m currently upping my marketing by building out my website with Kajabi and adding a subscription service that will have several resources available.  I write daily devotions on my Facebook wall, Instagram, and blog.  I share links on those posts to my books and resources.  In addition, I’ve started leading free online studies with the purchase of the book.  This has opened doors for larger groups and has increased sales as well.

6. Are there any marketing or networking techniques you’ve intentionally avoided or discontinued, and if so, why?

Given our large family needs, I thought it best not to do a book tour and chose my speaking engagements wisely.

7. What are the most important things you’ve learned about publishing that you didn’t know when you started out?

The greatest lesson I’ve learned is related to the need for perseverance.  Balancing life and writing requires commitment, consistency, and the ability to fully experience your vision before you’re actually living it. This was the only way for me to press through all of the challenges.

8. If you could do one thing differently in publishing your books, what would it be?

I would have confirmed with my editor ahead of time what platform to use for exchanging our revisions.

9. New authors face the challenge of getting their books into the hands of readers.  What advice do you have for an author just starting out?

It’s never too early to start building your network and letting people in on your progress.  Your future customers love being part of the process.  Maintain a balance between growing your audience and writing, but make sure to focus on both.

10. What other projects are you currently working on?

I’m working on revising my MP Planner and have started on my next book Mission Possible: Walking in Truth.

11. If you could market your brand – not just one particular book, but your overall brand of writing – in one sentence, what would it be?

I help Christians gain clarity, confidence, and joy so they can discover their purpose and live a life that matters.

12. How can readers learn more about your books?

They can check out my MPWarrior page on Facebook.