The SCENT Method of Book Publicity

Kerry WilliamsBy Kerry Williams

“What kills a skunk is the publicity it gives itself.” (Abraham Lincoln)

What fragrance do you give off through your publicity campaign?

While the above quote is comical it reveals a deep truth. Your action (or inaction) in publicity has the power to kill sales for your book or bring them to life.

For example, publicity that comes across as pushy, self-seeking, or arrogant may not win you air time with your local station. But professional, knowledgeable, and confident promotions invite exposure.

Use the acrostic S-C-E-N-T to ensure your publicity is emitting a pleasant aroma that draws readers to your book.

Start a publicity campaign.

It may sound obvious but don’t forget the work that must be done, both pre- and post-publishing, to get your book into readers’ hands.

Create a media kit.

You may need help from your publicist to determine what to include in your media kit, but to present yourself professionally you do need a media package.

Edit, edit, edit.

Whether it’s a bio, press release, book recap, or catalog description, make sure typos and bad spelling and grammar don’t create a stench.


N
ever forget your manners.

Knowing when to call, when to give media personnel time, and when to send a thank-you card is all part of presenting yourself professionally.

Try working with a professional.

Hiring a publicist ensures that your publicity campaign avoids the most common pitfalls. It is your publicist’s job to keep his or her “nose in the air” and know the industry trends and right timing for your unique topic.


Kerry Williams
has worked as an assistant to her mother-in-law, Carla Williams, for over six years. She now uses her experience helping WinePress and Pleasant Word authors build their platforms. She has a gift for opening doors for speaking opportunities.

(By the way: are you looking for even more free tools, tips, and resources? Follow us on Twitter to stay up-to-date on the latest)

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The editorial team for WinePress of Words includes Carla Williams (Executive Editor), Laura Christianson (Editor and Coordinator), Josiah Williams (Marketing Specialist), and Thomas McGee (Designer and Developer).

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