Every author dreams of their book breaking through the noise, but with countless titles vying for attention, where do you begin? In a recent Speaker Series, we tackled this challenge head-on with expert advice from Marika Flatt and Kimberly Sneed of PR by the Book. These industry pros shared insider tips on how authors can craft powerful campaigns, engage with readers, and leverage the latest digital tools to promote their books.
Whether you’re a debut novelist or a seasoned author, their strategies are designed to help your book stand out in today’s crowded market. Here’s what you need to know!
Why Publicity is One Piece of the Pie 🍰
Whether you aim to boost sales, enhance your brand, or secure speaking engagements, publicity works best in tandem with marketing, advertising, and distribution efforts.
Key Takeaway: Publicity isn’t just about selling books—it’s about amplifying your name and message.
Publicity and Digital: Two Sides of the Promotion Coin
The PR by the Book team runs two parallel tracks: traditional publicity and digital outreach. From pitching media outlets to leveraging social platforms, they customize campaigns to fit each book’s unique needs. Their strategy covers everything from print and TV to podcasts, influencers, and Goodreads.
Pro Tip: Start your publicity efforts early! For pre-publication books, aim for six months before the release. Already published? No worries—there are plenty of ways to drum up buzz post-launch.
The Power of Podcasts 🎙️
Podcasts have become a book promotion powerhouse, combining the storytelling appeal of talk radio with the convenience of on-the-go listening. Niche and genre-specific podcasts can expand your reach. Whether you’re a romance writer or a medical memoirist, there’s a podcast for you.
Success Story: Dr. David Weil’s novel gained exposure on 40 podcasts, reaching over 15 million potential listeners!
Social Media: It’s Not Just About Posts
From creating engaging content to running targeted ad campaigns, social media offers authors endless opportunities. PR by the Book’s campaigns show how a strong presence on platforms like Instagram and TikTok can help authors connect with readers and influencers alike.
Pro Tip: Work with micro-influencers (1K–10K followers) who align with your book’s niche for authentic, impactful engagement.
Leveraging Platforms Like NetGalley and Goodreads 📚
Kimberly shared the benefits of using NetGalley to distribute ARCs (Advance Reader Copies) and generate reviews pre-launch. Goodreads, on the other hand, is a must-claim platform for every author—it’s where readers go to discover, review, and follow their favorite authors.
Hot Tip: Add timely tie-ins to your pitches, such as seasonal themes or trending topics, to grab the media’s attention.
Immersive Storytelling: Make Your Book an Experience
Want your book to stand out in a sea of titles? PR by the Book encourages authors to think outside the box with tools like:
- Interactive Websites: Include maps, character profiles, or exclusive content.
- Book Trailers: Create cinematic videos to capture your story’s essence.
- Social Media Narratives: Post snippets of your book or behind-the-scenes content.
Final Thoughts
The book world is vast and competitive, but with the right strategies, you can carve out your space. Staying nimble and testing new ideas is key.
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