I’m often asked about the name of my business. What does it mean? And what is a “sherpa,” anyway? So, here goes…
I fell into business ownership, rather than set out for it, which is something I think happens to many freelance writers. I didn’t do a business or marketing plan or any other kind of getting-started stuff that business-minded folks do. I just hung out my shingle and started winging it. So, my business never had a name.
Three years ago or so, I wanted to start taking it more seriously and needed a name–an identity. At the time, I was focusing most heavily on ghostwriting (rather than editing or copywriting). Ghostwriting is a collaborative effort that takes both parties (me and my client) through a monumental and arduous process of writing a book. It’s kind of like climbing a mountain, right? Even if it’s your job, you remember each trip and the things you learn along the way. Plus, I wanted a business identity that would stand out against all the other ghostwriters.
A sherpa is, literally, a person from a mountainous region in Nepal who is employed as a mountain guide. They know the mountains, make decisions about how to proceed, and carry much of the heavy equipment. When I chose this as my business name, I was hoping to conjure the image of an experienced and supportive professional who helped aspiring authors achieve the milestone goal of getting their book done. As a ghostwriter, it felt right because the ghostwriter has to do all the heavy lifting (the writing work).
Now that I focus just as much on teaching people how to write a book, the sherpa image of an experienced guide works even better. My programs are the path that will lead my clients to success.
Cool, eh? Well, at least I thought so.
If you’re working on a book, make sure you get a free copy of my “Jump Start Your Book E-course!”
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