Today we’d like to introduce you to Iman Drummond.
Iman, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Let’s start by saying I’ve always had a thing for books. You can find me in a bookstore curled up reading and looking through titles, so it only makes sense that I would one day become an Author. When I decided to take the leap into “author-land”, I honestly wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to go but knew I was in motion. Then, in 2016 my nephew arrived, and he changed me. We would read books together before bed, learn together and when he got older, he would always ask me, “Auntie Iman, what are you doing? Are you talking to your work friends?” And from there, I told myself I would write a book for him so he knows what Auntie does but also has something he can learn from. He, along with so many other little ones inspired me to write “Carter’s Way: All the Things You Can Be”, because representation matters and books with main characters that look like us are far and few between. I began writing and publishing CW in between 2 major surgeries from Dec. 2020 to June 2021, with an official release date of August 1, 2021. Since the books’ release, I have done readings at Barnes & Noble, several Instagram collaborations with various Authors and tons of self-promotion, all while working a full-time job. Publishing my book has been a dream, but seeing & hearing little ones become inspired is priceless. I want them to know whatever they do, to do it with passion.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Challenges? Ha! What are those? They don’t exist when becoming an Author! I faced SO many challenges while publishing this book. First and foremost, I SELF-published this book, keyword “SELF”, so my finances, blood, sweat, tears were real. There were plenty of late nights and long hours over the weekends that were dedicated to this book, not to mention I was recovering from two surgeries within six months of each other. Some other challenges included the tech side, I am not a tech guru, but the things I learned during the process showed me what I am capable of. I never knew how to format a book, well I do now. There are so many moving pieces in the self-publishing world but I love a good challenge.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I work within HR and specialize within Talent Acquisition. I love my job because I get to be that bridge between a potential candidate and their dream job. Nothing beats the “Hi, so I would love to offer you this position” conversation because you never know how you are blessing someone. Giving someone an opportunity is a game changer! As a Recruiter, I think what sets me apart is my ability to make an interview feel like a conversation between friends. I joke around, find common ground, and truly enjoy getting to know people. Is it easy? No. But do I love it? YES!
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice to those wanting to take a trip into “author-land” is do your research, have a game plan, build a team, communicate, and most importantly…START. Begin with one page, then three more and keep going. From there, weigh your options and decide if you want to go the traditional route or self-publish. I can say I am so glad I went the self-publishing route because I was (and still am) able to be hands on (#controlfreak) through the entire process. I’m able to own everything I do down to the dollar, and I love that sense of ownership especially with this being my first project. If we are going to be honest, knowing what I know now, I wish I had a better marketing plan put in action because I know that is not a strong suit for me. Writing a book is half the battle, marketing is the take home. We live & learn, and that is what my 3rd book is for! Stay tuned…
Pricing:
- 9.99 (Carter’s Way: All the Things You Can Be)
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.booksbyiman.com
- Instagram: Books By Iman
- Facebook: Books By Iman
