Over the past couple of weeks, Cardinal Rule Press’ own Maria Dismondy has been on a media tour, sharing her newest book release, Sunny Side Upbringing, at multiple news outlets and morning shows throughout Michigan. Sounds like every author’s dream, right?
In today’s blog, our Public Relations pros at CRP will share some INSIDER TIPS on scoring those media interviews we all want! Whether you have a new book to promote, an event to publicize or maybe you’re looking to boost awareness about a new literacy initiative at your library, business or school, these tips can get you there – and on-air!
Speaking of INSIDER TIPS: Stay in the know by signing up for the Cardinal Rule Press bi-weekly Newsletter. Coming up in April, subscribers are receiving an ABC BOOK HUNT to explore your library and encourage visitor interaction!
MAKE IT A NEWS STORY, NOT A SALE
For example, for Maria’s book release, it was well timed with the National Reading Month of March. Instead of just selling the reporter or producer on “another author talking about their book,” make it part of a BIGGER STORY for the news station. Maria’s book happens to promote early literacy tips at home – so let’s talk about that as part of National Reading Month. Reporters and producers are looking to make their work days easier and they NEED IDEAS every day. Help them with YOURS! Maybe you’re an expert on a topic that is really hot in the news right now, or maybe your story, book or initiative aligns with something that news station is focused on right now (a fundraiser, a theme for the month, or something a host is dealing with and sharing).
BE SPECIFIC, DON’T SEND MASS COMMUNICATIONS
Producers and reporters are sent hundreds of press releases daily and they can CERTAINLY sniff out (and quickly delete) a mass email. Spend the time doing a little online research and make sure you send personal emails to the people who would be MOST interested in you. Who covers education at the newspaper or TV station? Who is the lifestyle reporter? What reporter visits libraries or schools regularly? A little snooping on their websites can provide you GREAT information and TIPS to get to the person MOST likely to be interested in YOU.
KEEP IT QUICK AND EASY
In other words, don’t share EVERYTHING in that first communication inquiry. Start with a fun subject line to get their attention (you can be a little informal here), and then give them a couple reasons they would want to talk to you further. Reporters and producers are way too busy to read three paragraphs on WHY you wrote a story or every single detail of your bookstore’s upcoming READING EVENT. Share the biggies and ask when you can be scheduled to come visit and share more (that’s right – ASSUME, don’t act shy)!
With these INSIDER TIPS you WILL get more responses and potential interest. Before you know it, you may find yourself on your very own media tour!
~ Your Marketing friends at Cardinal Rule Press
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