Where Writers Can Learn How To Get Published & Published Authors Can Promote Their Books for Free

Book PR 101


Book publishing is a crowded marketplace. With any book, authors look for ways to get the word out about their books to the general public. That's where a professional publicist - or an author acting as their own publicist, comes in.

The goal is to get the word out to the media...print, broadcast and the online community. There are several tools to get information about your book to the press - a well-written press release, pitch letter, as well as a customized media list will put you at an advantage to stand out from your peers. Editors depend on publicists to help them cull the best of the field - that's where you come in.

Take advantage of your personal connections - if friends and family know editors or reporters, have them make a call on your behalf, or at least use their name when introducing yourself to the reporter. Another asset in the field of publicity is persistence. Editors and producers are busy, and providing them with the right tools, and sometimes catching them at the right time is the key to getting coverage for your book. With all that in mind, here are some tips to get started.



TOP 10 TIPS TO A SUCCESSFUL PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN
  1. Provide as much information as you can to editors - they'll be more likely to write about your book if you provide them with all the tools they need.
  2. Know what you are asking for - is it a review, a write up or a feature?
  3. Know that publicity is not advertising - you cannot control what editors write - it may be negative.
  4. Be timely - return calls and information in a timely manner
  5. Know about lead times - some monthly magazines have a four-month lead time.
  6. Do your homework - be familiar with the outlet you are pitching.
  7. Have high-resolution photos and artwork readily available.  Photos should have a resolution of 300dpi or higher.
  8. Be persistent - call back until you get an answer.
  9. Do take no for an answer.
  10. Stay positive!
If you're looking for press release ideas, see our Reasons to Write a Press Release, courtesy of Joan Stewart.

With the right combination of tools, skill and drive, your book will get the notice it deserves!