Show Your Work Book Summary

In “Show Your Work,” Austin Kleon reveals how to gain recognition and build a successful online presence, emphasizing that success isn’t about being a genius but about sharing your process and engaging with your audience. This summary highlights practical strategies to improve your chances of being noticed and establishing a solid reputation in your field.Chapter

1: You Don’t Have to Be a Genius

• Main Idea: Success doesn’t require being a genius from the start; it requires hard work and curiosity.
• Key Points:
  • Start working instead of waiting to be perfect.
  • Curiosity helps overcome fear of failure and rejection.
  • Research to identify and fill gaps in the market.
  • Continuous learning from others who share your interests is crucial.

Chapter 2: Think Process, Not Product

• Main Idea: Engage your audience by sharing your process, not just the finished product.
• Key Points:
  • People are more interested in how you do things rather than just the end result.
  • Document and share your daily work and thoughts.
  • Sharing the process creates curiosity and deeper engagement with your audience.

Chapter 3: Share Something Small Every Day

• Main Idea: Consistency in sharing small insights daily can significantly impact your online presence.
• Key Points:
  • Regular sharing keeps you in the audience’s mind.
  • Even small, interesting finds can engage others.
  • Over time, consistent sharing builds credibility and recognition.
  • Be honest and authentic about your interests and thoughts.

Chapter 4: Open Up Your Cabinet of Curiosities

• Main Idea: Share what you find fascinating, even if it might not appeal to everyone.
• Key Points:
  • Honesty is valued in the online community.
  • Write and read about what you enjoy to fuel your creativity.
  • Don’t hesitate to share your work if you believe in its quality.

Chapter 5: Tell Good Stories

• Main Idea: Good storytelling can help build a strong connection with your audience.
• Key Points:
  • Be clear, simple, and respectful in your storytelling.
  • Use accessible language to reach a broader audience.
  • Maintain self-respect and honor others while sharing your stories.

Chapter 6: Teach What You Know

• Main Idea: Sharing your knowledge can build respect and a loyal audience.
• Key Points:
  • Create tutorials, reviews, and recommendations based on your expertise.
  • Keep teaching content simple and relevant to what people want to learn.
  • Embrace feedback and be prepared for criticism.
  • Sharing your “secrets” can earn respect and establish you as an authority.

Chapter 7: Don’t Turn Into Human Spam

• Main Idea: Engagement and collaboration are key; don’t just focus on self-promotion.
• Key Points:
  • Appreciate others’ work and engage with it genuinely.
  • Avoid becoming isolated and self-centered in your work.
  • Great influencers collaborate and appreciate others’ contributions.
  • Meet online connections in real life to build deeper relationships.

Chapter 8: Learn to Take a Punch

• Main Idea: Handle both praise and criticism with grace.
• Key Points:
  • Stay balanced regardless of positive or negative comments.
  • Focus on positive feedback and constructive criticism.
  • Use the block button to manage negativity.
  • Celebrate others’ success to foster a positive community.

Chapter 9: Sell Out

• Main Idea: Don’t shy away from monetizing your work and supporting others.
• Key Points:
  • Support your favorite artists by buying their work.
  • Ask for help and donations when needed.
  • Build and maintain an email list to connect with your audience.
  • Support struggling creators once you find success.

Chapter 10: Stick Around

• Main Idea: Persistence and adaptability are crucial for long-term success.
• Key Points:
  • Make and follow a to-do list for your projects.
  • Be prepared to change plans when necessary.
  • Stay committed and adapt as required without stressing over changes.

Conclusion

• Overall Message: The book provides practical advice on how to build an online presence, share your creative process, and engage with your audience effectively. By following these strategies, you can improve your chances of being recognized and establish a solid reputation in your field.
• Favorite Quote: “Make Stuff You Love And Talk About Stuff You Love And You’ll Attract People Who Love That Kind Of Stuff. It’s That Simple.”