Authors – be generous with your time and your words
POSTED BY elaine ON November 5, 2010
When you give, you get. And that’s true for media coverage as well. An author who is generous with his time and material can reap the publicity benefits and stand out from those who, well…… aren’t.
We encourage all of our authors, regardless of their book’s topic, to be open to provide new content, personalized articles and act as sources to the media who needs them – anytime they need them. Will an editor ask you to write a 1,000 word piece about your book and the inspiration behind it? No – that’s their job IF they choose to cover it. In fact, you will be asked to NOT mention your book in the article you provide. But here’s an example of what does happen: A magazine geared toward a mature (senior citizen) audience planning a war issue for their veterans, may ask an actual war veteran (who just happens to have a book) to write a piece on a topic of interest.
That’s exactly what happened to PR by the Book client and Vietnam veteran, Phil Ward. We pitched Senior Magazine in Sacramento because seniors are a natural audience for a novel about World War II, not to mention that area of California is home to a high number of WWII veterans. The editor asked if Phil could write the cover story for their Nov issue. Phil then worked directly with the editor, provided what they needed – an article about the first Commando raid of WW2 -and look at the result! (Go to pages 20-21). A full spread and lengthy bio. When you talk about reaching the right audience for your book, this is it.
Nowhere in the article does Phil discuss his book, Those Who Dare, but it doesn’t matter. He showcased his writing skills and got his name in front of nearly 160,000 readers and potential book buyers. Not only does the bio mention his book, but the editor ends up reviewing it (go to page 38), too!
So authors – be generous with your time and writing talents. Be an active part of your own coverage. If a journalist, who is drowning in pitches, asks for the honor of showcasing your writing, don’t think twice. It’ll pay off in the end!
Do you have a collection of pre-written articles ready to be tweaked and sent if a reporter needs one?
Tags: articles, authors, book pr
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