Publicity from A to Z, Part 4
This is the last in the series of Publicity Tips, A to Z, we hope you have been inspired and encouraged along the way. Enjoy!
Previous Segments
Q: Don’t Quit
Realistically, sales slow at times and even great ideas or investments don’t turn out how we expect. Don’t give up, don’t quit trying, and don’t complain. Book publicity is a long term commitment. Learn to rejoice in the positive and keep things moving forward.
R: Research
Take the time to research all areas of your promotions. Watch or listen to the shows you want to be on, read articles in the magazines or newspapers you want exposure in. Hire a Publicist who has connections with media and has done the research. Other items to research are: Your audience, what books are selling well in your genre and why? What advertising works well with books, etc.?
S: Social Networking
We mentioned this in “N-Networking,” however it is worth mentioning again. The key to using Facebook, Twitter, and other social network platforms is to make sure that your audience uses these avenues to communicate and look for books or information. If not, then it may not be the best way to spend your time. Be sure of two things before social networking: 1)Is this is an area your audience responds to? 2) Are you willing and have the time to keep up once you start?
T: Teaching
If there is any way to “teach” the content of your book, make it happen. You can liven up a boring book signing by offering a short class on the subject matter of your book, for free. If you need practice, start with volunteering to teach at community centers or local churches. Even fiction books now commonly have discussion questions created to go with their books.
U: Uniform (adjective)
In every way possible, create a “uniform” look for your message. Many prolific fiction writers’ books can be recognized before you even read their name, just by the cover style of their book. Find your brand, your “look,” and do your best to keep it. People respond to familiarity.
V: Viral Video
Create a multimedia trailer for your book and send it to everyone you know. If you can work into the video comedy, drama, or useful information – go for it! It’s best to hire a professional multimedia expert to help you produce a professional trailer. If you can be in the video, that also helps add a personal touch. Send it everywhere and to everyone and ask them to do the same. Check out some great book trailers the WP Multimedia team has created at our Video Viewing Room.
W: Wait
Some opportunities take time. Big breaks don’t usually come the day after your book is in print. Work towards your goals and patiently wait for special endorsement or media contacts.
X: Xcitement – Build It
If your book can be placed for pre-order with your publisher, make this happen and email others with the link to purchase. Give a discounted pre-publication price for incentive. Once your book is typeset, print a compelling chapter and share it with your men’s or ladies’ group at church, the youth group (if applicable), etc. to start a buzz about your book. Make sure you don’t say, “My book is coming out soon!” Instead, offer something your audience can read, view, etc. (See also V – Viral Video)
Y: Yield
Learn to let go. Many times in the quest to promote your book you have to let go and yield to the reality of the situation. Not everyone will be on the top talk or news shows, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be successful. Don’t waste a lot of time and energy chasing unrealistic goals. Focus on the reachable goals and spend your time, energy and funds on things that work for you.
Z: Zzzzzz . . .
Take a nap! If you’ve been putting all these into practice the last tip is to rest. That is, of course, until tomorrow.
What Do You Think?
We hope you benefited from these short tips about publicity. Feel free to leave us a comment to let us know what your thoughts were on the series, as well as your personal experiences. We would love to hear from you!
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Really have enjoyed your blogs, and especially the A to Z tips, which I printed off to read again later. Thanks for such a great website with so much information about everything!
Greetings,
I too enjoyed all the Tips.
Your T: Teaching topic confirms my response to an invitation. Just a few days ago, I was asked by a staff member at the local library to do a book talk. The staff members have volunteered to do everything, – the set-up, advertising, and cleanup! Since my book is about Partnering with Caregivers, I feel their invitation set the stage for a great opening statement about partnership – people helping people.
Any suggestions for a successful book talk, i.e., time limitation, freebies, etc…?
Verna