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By Abigail Davidson
Hi, my name is Jill and I’m an author. I wrote a great book, it needs to get to everyone in the whole world! Would you like to interview me?”
Click…
I know, I know; you would never do that!
Maybe most authors wouldn’t be that brazen, but I can’t tell you how many authors, with good intentions and even with great books, fall into the trap of self-promotion without doing any research. And I don’t just mean research on if you are calling the right producer or right show; I mean research on how to not turn off media before you have gotten through the door.
Surely there are a lot of resources on this topic, but here are three key actions you can start moving forward with today to help you not make a fool of yourself and your message:
1. Humility
Remember that you are not famous and that you are building your reputation with every phone call, email or conversation. Humility doesn’t mean you never talk about your book; it means you don’t force yourself or your message on anyone.
2. Honesty
Don’t try to be someone you’re not. If you don’t have a PhD you shouldn’t say you do. On the other hand, don’t apologize for not having one. If you’re a stay-at-home mom with five kids, you don’t have to announce it with a megaphone, but don’t be ashamed either. Authors come in all shapes, sizes and backgrounds. Media wants honest and relevant information.
3. Heart
Communicate the heart of your message. Practice again and again what you want to convey and put your heart into it. Pleasant, not pushy; Serious, not silly (unless of course your book is about humor).
When possible it is best to have a publicist represent you and your book, but these simple steps will help put you on the right track in your personal promotion.
Abigail Davidson has worked with WinePress Publishing since February of 2005, promoting WinePress authors through radio, television, print and Internet.
She also works closely with other WinePress staff on advertising and marketing to help WinePress authors build a publicity campaign that makes sense for their unique needs.
(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)
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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