BLOGS for authors

Click this link for an interesting article on how more authors are starting and maintaining blogs.

posted by Traci Bisson @ 9:39 PM 1 Comments Links to this post

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Tuesday, February 01, 2005

What is a Pitch/Hot Topic Letter?

A pitch or hot topic letter, is a brief letter, almost never longer than one page, written to accompany media kits and interview requests.

In the first sentence, try to give the reporter something that will make him/her say either "Gee, I never knew that" or "That's an interesting angle for a story".

Pitch letters serve one purpose...to pique the reporter's interest in your story. They needn't tell the whole story. Rather, they are "teasers" for the meat of your story angle.

Tell us about a success story you have had with writing a pitch letter.


posted by Traci Bisson @ 2:33 PM 2 Comments Links to this post

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What is a Media Kit and what should it contain?

A Media Kit is a professional portfolio specifically designed to "sell" yourself to the media. Whether you are pitching a story about a new service or product or some other idea, you will need additional information that you can send to the media upon request.

A Media Kit should contain:

  • Pitch/cover letter
  • Brochure if available
  • Book flyer with specs
  • News releases
  • Articles
  • A prepared list of 10 questions about your product and/or service, background, etc.
  • Review copy of book

What else have you used that has been successful in your media kit?


posted by Traci Bisson @ 2:30 PM 0 Comments Links to this post

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What Does A Publicist Do?

A publicist promotes individuals, businesses, and groups. They arrange for and often write newspaper articles, and schedule interviews, lectures, or other public appearances. With authors, a publicists goal is to promote you and your book to your target market in your demographics. Without properly targeted public relations, a well written book will sit on the shelf.

Today, there are more than 700,000 books in print. Competition is fierce. You need to become highly visible in order to make a name for yourself and convince consumers to purchase your book. What better way then by harnessing the strength and credibility of the media.

Before hiring a publicist, make sure they have the experience and connections to reach your market. You should also feel completely comfortable having them on your team.

You should ask about the following when interviewing a publicist:
  • What is your professional background?
  • Who are some of your clients?
  • What genres do you work with?
  • Do you have any industry specializations?
  • Do you require a contract?
  • What demographics do you cover?
  • Who will be on the team handling my campaign?
  • What is your fee structure?
  • Can you provide me with references?


First impressions are important when meeting with a publicist. How do they represent themselves to you? Keep in mind this is how they will represent you and your book. Be prepared to establish a partnership with your publicist, stay involved - have a plan in mind before meeting with them on how you might like to see your book and professional image promoted.

What experiences have you had either good or bad with publicists? Any pointers on what authors should look out for or be aware of?


posted by Traci Bisson @ 2:23 PM 0 Comments Links to this post

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