The Scott Kelby Empire

Here's a nice article about author Scott Kelby in USAToday.  It refers to the "$20 million empire" he has built around books, magazines, conferences, etc.  The article opens with a note about something I've said countless times to new authors: "You can't get rich writing computer books."  Actually, a small number of authors have, but they represent a tiny percentage of the total author population.

One of the lessons learned here is the importance of diversifying your efforts.  Books are a key ingredient, but Kelby has done a fantastic job getting into other areas of the industry.  It certainly doesn't hurt that he's now extremely well-connected within Adobe, of course!

Comments

[Morgan Ramsay]

Eh, I'm not a fan of Kelby or NAPP of which I was a member for a single day many years ago. I don't remember why I cancelled my membership, but I remember Kelby being personally and negatively involved with my reason... Regardless, one other lesson to be learned here is the importance of supporting your fans. He's a brand champion, and I'm reasonably certain Adobe loves having him around.

... and association president with extremely close ties to Photoshop maker Adobe Systems. He gets software releases months ahead of time, and Adobe heavily promotes his seminars.

Well, whaddya know!