Guest Blogger ... Bonnie St. John

I'm sitting here in my cabin in the Catskills mulling over the the kinds of questions I am asked as I travel around the country. There are several that keep coming up, but the one I get most often goes like this: "I'm interested in writing a book and speaking. Can you give me some advice?"

This question keeps coming up from a variety of people I know - senior executives, business owners, government officials, non-profit executives, college professionals, and even a major magazine editor! Just in the last two weeks, I've been approached by senior leaders in pharma, finance, government, and insurance. They all want me to help them crack the code for doing what I do - either as a new career or just to enhance their current stature. I always want to answer this question, but I know it takes more than a brief discussion at a cocktail party or even an hour long meeting. If you're serious about this, you need to know how to position your message, how to get an agent, how to write an effective book proposal, develop a marketing plan etc. All the stuff I wish I had known when I got started!

So for the last two summers, I have gathered a small group of my friends and actually sat down with them to go through all this in practical ways that have been really helpful for them. While I do one-to-one coaching on this, the group dynamic (with a few talented people) actually spurs individual creativity. As I sit here, gazing out over the lush springtime blossoms on the mountains, it occurred to me that this would be a great place to come together for this kind of discussion. So, I was wondering if you wanted to join me up here this summer to swing on the porch, walk in the woods, and sit by a campfire while we delve into the lessons I've learned in my 15+ years of doing this. If you do, just email me to let me know--I'll get in touch with you so we can make a plan. Even if you don't think a trip to the Catskills will work into your summer schedule, I might be able to link you in virtually so you don't miss the discussion. Let's talk!

The book I'm currently writing with Darcy is coming along even better than we ever imagined. Since I last sent you an update, we've met with Hillary Clinton, fashion designer Eileen Fisher, Deloitte Chairman Sharon Allen, and Condoleezza Rice. The insights we've gotten into their lives have taught us life-changing lessons about becoming a leader, dealing with high-profile
pressure, and the importance of having women in leadership roles. We grow and enjoy life so much through writing--it's why I want my friends to be able to do it, too! Last week, for example, we got to hang out with EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson backstage in the green room as she was about to appear on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart for Earth Day. Lisa is a
fascinating person to talk to and Jon Stewart, who burst in on us, was hysterically funny even off camera (big surprise!).

By the way, in April I also got to go to the White House with the Vancouver Olympians and Paralympians--I hugged the President and Michelle as well as Joe and Jill Biden. Life sure is amazing sometimes!

Don't forget to email me (bonnie AT bonniestjohn DOT com) if you want to find out more about joining me this summer (literally or virtually) to talk books and speaking. I need to get an idea of the dates that work for you and what you most want to know. I have to keep the group very small so that I can give personalized support and advice, so please let me know as soon as you can if you want to be included.

Cheers,

Bonnie