I'm delighted to host a guest on the blog this week.
I met Angela Belassie at a netwroking event in Bristol and she was full of so many great tips and ideas for small businsses, and writers, to get some quality PR.
Angela set up PR The Write Way to do just that, and I'm proud to share just a small example of her knoweldge and tips to help authors get their books noticed.
Over to Angela...
Seven Tips to Publicise Your Book.
So, you’ve written your book and are now set to have it published. Congratulations!
You will probably want to shout about it from the rooftops - letting as many people as possible know how and where they can get a copy.
One way to do this is with some good old-fashioned PR; this can include sharing a press release with various press publications, including in print, online and broadcast.
Here are seven tips to write a successful press release to promote your book.
Timing
It is ideal to plan in advance and have the press release ready prior to publication. Bear in mind some publications are monthly – or even quarterly – and it would help to send the press release to them ahead of time. Be aware of the various publications’ deadlines.
Tell Your Story (not that of the book!)
The press is generally more interested in people than products. Focus on the inspiration behind the book, rather than a chapter-by-chapter account.
For example, Inge Dowden wrote The Happy Worker and talked about the adversity she had overcome, which had led her to want to help others.
Inge thought the press wanted to know about the content of the book, but I helped her see that they are more interested in the personal story.
Similarly, Yvonne Bignall drew from her life experience when she released ‘Suck it Up or Change.’
Use Statistics
Statistics can add weight to your article. Finding research which backs up the findings behind your book may help with its promotion.
In another press release, Inge uses statistics to show that most people quit their jobs in January – but this may not be the way forward. Instead, her book gives some options.
Share Your Credentials
How are you qualified to talk about the subject matter in your book? Talk about the experience you have in the field and any relevant qualifications.
Inge has worked for multi million pound corporations both in the UK and abroad. Over the last 10 years she has helped hundreds of clients make career changes, create profitable businesses and achieve a good work/life balance.
Yvonne is an award-winning personal development educator and life motivator for both lifestyle and business.
Do not be afraid to promote your skillset.
Share Your Success to Date
Consider any successes you have had which you could share in your press release.
For example, Yvonne’s book was a number 1 best seller on Amazon. This adds credibility and encourages more people to buy the book.
If it is prior to the book being released, then you could look at successful case studies.
Reviews
In today’s busy newsrooms it is unlikely that reporters will have the time to read and review your book. Instead ask your network to write reviews and share the positive feedback in your press release and on social media.
Cast the Net Wide
Target a range of publications which are relevant for you. If you live in Bristol, for example, target publications in that area. Also consider community publications and trade press which is relevant to your industry.
