What Can a Publicist Do For You?

PLEASE WELCOME MY GUEST, Lauren!!!!

Being an author is hard work. You have to write your book, edit your book, and now they want you to market it as well (while you’re most likely still living life and writing something new)? I’m not a published author…but I do write, and to be published one day is a goal of mine. However, I’ve worked with various authors on many levels of their promotion and I know how time-consuming and confusing it can be.

Therefore, I would recommend a publicist. No, it’s not for everyone. Some people are quite capable of promoting on their own or just prefer it. And I know publishing companies often do what they can, but if your book isn’t a TOP PICK for them…it can get lost in the shuffle. It’s not your fault, right? So think about hiring an independent publicist, which is what I am. I’m relatively new but I’ve already worked with many authors in the past (and through my business, Shooting Stars Promotion).

But back to you, the writer. What can a publicist do for you anyway?
Here are some reasons you should think about branching out (and yes, these all apply to me):

1. They’re on your side. They want you to succeed on some level.
2. They have less books and authors to focus on than a publishing company so you get more of their attention.
3. They are often happy to work with unique avenues of promotion instead of over-covering the same places.
4. They can be cheaper than you think, as long as you do your research.
5. They are easier to get a hold of when you need them.
6. They are happy to work with your own ideas/suggestions.

Here are some things that I like to do with my own clients:

1. Work with businesses that sell products related to client’s book…cross-promote.
2. Find the best blogs to promote on and not just all YA blogs (you’re hitting much of the same people).
3. Make sure my client isn’t overspending for anything. While you do pay me, I don’t want you wasting money.
4. Try and find similar authors/books you could cross-promote with.
5. Figure out the best forms of swag to use for your particular novel.
6. Target other websites, newspapers, magazines…if applicable.

I’ll be the first to admit that not everyone needs a publicist, but I think it could be a big help to a lot of people. You just need to do your research and find someone you want to work with that fits your budget.

To learn more about me and my business, visit my website:

www.laurenashleybecker.com. I also blog at www.shootingstarsmag.blogspot.com and www.letsgetbeyondtolerance.blogspot.com. You can contact me through any of these sites.