As I write this blog post, protests are being planned in cities throughout the United States. I don’t get into politics on my blog because there countless places dedicated to that (and, quite frankly, I’m getting weary from it all), but this is a perfect moment to address an issue when marketing and publicizing your book.
Now is a good time to take a pause…
Unless you can speak to what is happening politically with the transfer of power in Washington DC, or if through your expertise you can address some of the changes we are already seeing take place, you’re simply not going to get coverage — at least not on news outlets.
On the other hand, there are still plenty of opportunities to publish on outlets that have a narrow focus, such as fitness, food, raising bees, fly fishing, (insert your topic here) or whatever.
What you must consider is this:
If you are in the United States, or any other country for that matter, you need to think about what people are focused on. If most are contemplating all the changes coming about politically (as is the case in the US), then perhaps discussions about lighter topics might look like you’re not in touch with what’s going on. (Ever looked at your news feed only to see that people’s posts are all about marching in various cities, and someone pops up with a comment about some cute cat videos? Just seems like the person is a bit out of touch with reality.) Now an argument can be made that distraction is a good thing…but you still need to think about this carefully.
Every person has to decide this for himself or herself. Should you market now, and if so, what is your message? Does it make sense to do so?
This extends way beyond politics. It applies any time there is a big event or issue that most people seem to be focused on.
The topic of my blog post today had me pause to consider this very thing. Do I want to get into politics here? No. However, if I focus in on my usual topic of marketing and publicizing books, do I run the risk of looking like I don’t care? (I DO care.)
So, I decided that maybe a brief dose of escapism is a good thing from time to time. When you need a break, pick up a great book. Here are the top bestselling books of 2016. Enjoy!
To your success!
Joanne