Several years ago, an author by the name of Allan contacted me. He had written a powerful, heartfelt book about overcoming adversity. He was smart, articulate, and deeply passionate about his message, but no matter how many pitches he sent, no one was biting.
He asked if I would meet with him to discuss this.
When we sat down to take a closer look at what he was sending out, the issue became clear: the pitch was all about him. His background, his struggles, his book. (This is not uncommon, by the way.)
Now, of course, those things matter—but they aren’t what producers and editors are scanning for in the first few seconds when looking over a pitch.
So, we made one simple change.
We reframed the pitch to focus on the audience rather than on him. Instead of highlighting Allan’s story alone, we positioned it as a solution: “Here’s how Allan’s insight can help your listeners navigate challenge, burnout, and uncertainty right now.”
That tiny shift opened the door. Within two weeks, Allan landed three local TV segments, a podcast with a sizable audience, and a full-page feature in a regional magazine.
One small change. Big results.
So the question becomes, “What is one shift you can make this week?”
It doesn’t have to be a major overhaul. Sometimes it’s the most subtle refinements that make all the difference. I have seen this over and over and over again.
It’s something to consider when you find yourself wondering why something isn’t working.
And remember, you don’t have to figure it out alone. That’s what I’m here for.
I’ve got you.
You may actually be closer than you think.
To your success!
Joanne
P.S. Suddenly I see!!
#onesmallshift
#authorpitches
#bookmarketing
#bookpublicity
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