Partnering with a Publicist: Your Essential Guide to Book Publicity Success

Working with a Book Publicist by Joanne McCall

Bringing a publicist on board for your book is like launching a rocket—exciting, full of momentum, and designed to take your work to new heights. But to truly reach the stars, you need to be an active co-pilot. Working with a publicist isn’t just about handing off the reins; it’s a collaboration where your voice, input, and energy are essential.

Ready to make waves with your book? I am asked about this a great deal, so here is how to work seamlessly with your publicist and maximize every opportunity for success.

You Are Still a Part of the Process
I must emphasize this point: Hiring a publicist doesn’t mean stepping away. You remain a vital part of the promotion strategy. Your insights, personality, and unique perspective are invaluable. Media interviews, articles, or features rely on your voice and expertise, so you’ll need to collaborate closely with your publicist to make sure your message stays authentic.

Your Input is Critical
Publicists are experts at crafting angles and pitches. They do it all day long, but they can’t do it in a vacuum. Share your thoughts on how you are unique, what sets your book apart, what motivated you to write it, and which audiences you feel connected to. The more information you provide, the more targeted and effective the publicity campaign will be.

Understand the Time It Takes
Landing media coverage is a process, not an overnight event no matter what social media may tell you. It takes time to pitch, follow up, and secure features, interviews, reviews, and placements. Be patient. Media opportunities can take weeks or even months to materialize, especially with long-lead outlets. Your publicist will guide you through the timeline, but it’s important to trust the process and allow space for things to unfold.

Be Available for Strategy Discussions
Publicity is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and strategies can shift depending on feedback and emerging opportunities. Stay available for check-ins and discussions about tactics. If your publicist needs to pivot or explore a different angle, your availability and openness to brainstorm ideas will ensure the campaign remains dynamic and aligned with your goals. Plus, this part of the process is so much fun!

Communication is Key
Regular communication between you and your publicist is essential. Whether it’s discussing media hits, upcoming interviews, or new opportunities, staying in the loop ensures that both parties are on the same page. Make sure to promptly respond to requests for information or feedback—this ensures a smoother process.

Be Prepared for Interviews
As you begin to secure media, be ready for interviews, podcasts, or speaking engagements. Media training might be part of your publicist’s service, but your preparation and understanding of key talking points will make all the difference in how your book is perceived by the audience.

Manage Expectations
Not every media pitch will land, and that’s okay. Your publicist will cast a wide net, but it’s important to remember that media outlets have varying interests and schedules. The key is consistency—while some opportunities may fall through, others will emerge. Keep a long-term vision in mind.

Celebrate Successes
Finally, take time to celebrate each milestone. Whether it’s your first feature or a major interview, each step is a win for your book’s visibility and success. Acknowledge the efforts of both yourself and your publicist along the way.

By understanding your role in the publicity process and working closely with your publicist, you’ll create a strong, collaborative foundation that maximizes the visibility and success of your book. Let me know if you want to talk more about it.

To your success!

Joanne

P.S. We all need people we can count on!

#Bookpublicitysuccess

#Bookpublicist

#Countonme

#Bookmarketing

#Bookpublicity

 


If you’d like to receive juicy publicity secrets directly on a regular basis, join the Savvy Sunday Community at the bottom of this page.

 

Scroll to Top