Getting the Media to Pick and Cover Your Book
How do you make a book captivating and worthy of media attention? The question lies at the heart of how successful book marketing companies plan to develop publicity campaigns. Experienced publicists play a key role here, crafting innovative pitches and story angles that engage the media. Since media relations are subjective and ultimately depend on the judgment of producers and editors, it is vital to understand their preferences and needs. While most books are considered newsworthy at the time of their release, the extent of publicity they receive can vary based on several factors, including pitches.
Besides formulating a compelling pitch letter, the timing of the book's release can also be a factor. For instance, if your book is about baseball, launching it during the football season may not attract much media attention. Conversely, releasing it during spring training, when interest in baseball is heightened, will likely yield better coverage. For fiction writers, linking publicity efforts to story elements such as the setting or period can be beneficial, along with highlighting intriguing character details. Publicity often begins locally, and you can start promoting in a place or setting where the book's story takes place.
Additionally, aligning your book with current events can boost its appeal. A book on personal finance may capture more interest during challenging economic times, while a title about luxury getaways may resonate better when people have disposable income. Many authors strategically plan their releases to align with significant anniversaries of historical events, ensuring a ready audience and increased media coverage. Sometimes, timing favors authors, as a relevant event coincides with their book's release. There's nothing wrong with being lucky, but you can also try to reverse-engineer it by planning.
Collaborating with a professional publicist also has advantages. They have established contacts and understand each one's preferences, knowing who prefers email, who favors traditional mail, and who is receptive to emerging local authors versus established ones. This insight streamlines the pitching process, saving time and enhancing efficiency. While a PR campaign doesn't guarantee success, strategic actions can significantly improve the likelihood of a positive outcome. This partnership can ultimately benefit your book's long-term visibility. Most competing books will have professional marketing support.