Photo: Summer winding down by Joanne McCall
If you’ve ever dabbled in book publicity or are gearing up for your next big launch, you’ve likely asked yourself this question. It’s the one that keeps authors awake at night, wondering if all their hard work will pay off. The number one question about book publicity I am asked is this:
“How do I get media attention for my book?”
That’s it. Short and sweet yet very challenging.
This question isn’t just about getting a few mentions in local newspapers or a podcast interview or two. It speaks to the heart of every author’s deepest desires: visibility, credibility, their brand, and the hope that their message will resonate with a wide audience.
In today’s saturated market, standing out is no small feat. We’ve talked about this before and we will again. The media landscape is vast, fragmented, and continually changing, making it increasingly challenging for authors, especially those without a huge following or celebrity status, to cut through the noise. But here’s the good news: Getting media attention is possible. I do it every single day and it can be a lot of fun too, but it starts with understanding a few key principles.
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- Craft a Compelling Story. The media isn’t just looking for another book release—they’re looking for stories that captivate, inspire, or challenge the status quo. What’s your story? What makes your book unique? How does it tie into current events, trends, or cultural conversations? Positioning your book as part of a larger narrative is essential. Keep asking yourself, “How am I unique?”
- Build Relationships, Not Just Pitches. Media professionals are bombarded with pitches daily. It’s hard to believe but “spray and pray” is alive and well. Instead of adding to the pile, focus on building genuine relationships. Engage with journalists, bloggers, and influencers on social media, comment on their work, and offer value without immediately asking for something in return. Sign up for their newsletter. Pay attention to what they are doing.
- Leverage Your Platform. Your online presence—whether through a blog, social media, podcast, or email newsletter—can be a powerful tool in your publicity arsenal. A well-maintained platform demonstrates to the media that you already have an engaged audience, making your story more appealing. Be sure to show off your other media coverage. Coverage begets coverage. Show it by using media brand logos and links to coverage.
<li.”>Think Outside the Box. Traditional media isn’t the only path to publicity, but then you know this. But as a reminder, consider collaborations with other authors, virtual book tours, or even unique events that tie into your book’s theme. Creativity in your approach can often lead to unexpected publicity opportunities. Again, how are you unique? What can you do that is different?
Remember, book publicity isn’t just about luck or connections; it’s about strategy, persistence, and telling a story that resonates. So, the next time you find yourself asking, “How do I get media attention for my book?” take a step back, revisit these principles, and craft a plan that sets you apart. If you need any help, join me here.
Until next time,
To your success!
Joanne
P.S. Hope you’re enjoying the last unofficial weekend of the summer. But no matter what anyone says, we still have another three weeks. But what a summer it has been!
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