In today’s Business Book Bites episode, I talk about publicity with Helen McCusker. With a background in journalism and a successful career in PR, Helen knows all the ins and outs of promoting books effectively.
I’m Karen Williams, your host, and I invite you to listen in to discover how the digital revolution has transformed the publicity landscape and the way journalists work. You’ll discover the power of social media platforms in reaching new audiences and find out the secrets to securing media coverage for unknown authors. Plus, Helen shares valuable tips on preparing for radio interviews and why authors should never underestimate the power of niche podcasts.
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‘The Elevator Pitch’. You can download Helen McCusker’s free bonus at www.librotas.com/podcastbonuses.
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Guest: Helen McCusker
Bio: Helen McCusker is an award-winning freelance book publicist. A trained journalist with a background in radio news, she has the depth and breadth of media contacts which makes high profile coverage achievable for her clients.
Email: bookedpr@gmail.com
Socials: https://twitter.com/helenmccusker and www.instagram.com/book_publicist
Key topics and bullets:
- Introduction to Helen McCusker
- The Digital Revolution in Journalism
- The Shift in Promotional Avenues
- Effective Pitching and Press Releases
- Engaging with Local and National Media Outlets
- Promoting Oneself and the Book during Interviews
- Utilizing Expertise and Building a Team
- Contacting Media Outlets for Publicity Opportunities
- Thinking about Publicity Early On
Time stamped overview:
00:00:36 Cross-industry professional found success in publishing.
00:03:43 Media landscape changed, social media dominant platform.
00:08:47 Think about publicity early; up to six months.
00:12:41 Importance of building a team for self-published authors.
00:16:11 Radio: powerful one-to-one medium with niche audiences.
00:19:40 Contact local radio for publicity and exposure.
00:23:42 Summary: Embrace local media opportunities for exposure.
00:27:51 Remote work and freelancing has changed publicity. Reach out before sending unsolicited books. Use pitches instead of press releases. Offer digital copies and follow up with finished copies.
Discussion questions:
- How has the digital revolution changed the way journalists work and how does it impact authors and their book promotion?
- What are some key strategies for authors to effectively utilise social media platforms in order to reach new audiences and find promotional opportunities?
- In what ways has the traditional method of relying on newspaper reviews for book promotion diminished? What are the alternatives?
- How can authors navigate the challenges of sending books to radio stations and media outlets that may have remote or home-based operations?
- What are some tips for crafting effective pitches or press releases for authors seeking media coverage? How can they stand out amongst the inundation of messages?
- What are some dos and don'ts for authors when it comes to interacting with producers and presenters of radio programs or podcasts?
- How can authors effectively promote themselves and their books during radio interviews? What are some strategies for engaging and captivating listeners?
- Why is it important for self-published authors to seek feedback and support from professionals such as editors, publicists, and designers? How can these experts contribute to the success of a book?
- What are some often overlooked aspects of book promotion that authors should consider in order to increase sales and reach potential readers?
- How can authors proactively approach media outlets, including local radio stations and national programs, to secure publicity opportunities? What are some strategies for building relationships with producers and being a valuable guest?
Keywords: publishing, independent publishing, radio journalism, press releases, publicity, Booked PR, nonfiction authors, media coverage, promotional opportunities, podcasts, newspaper reviews, advance information sheet, elevator pitch, self-published authors, advance proof copies, television coverage, audiobooks, audio platforms, ai sheet, thought leadership, non-fiction authors
