WRITING A PRESS RELEASE
When you’re launching a newly written book you need every bit of help that you can find, a press release is something which gets overlooked by a lot of independent /self-publishers and that’s a real shame. A great deal of authors will not take the time or even take themselves seriously enough to make the extra push in sending out a release, they will think that they’re too small or that it simply isn’t interesting enough for a journalist.
One thing you need to keep in mind is that journalists are actively searching out for items to fill the column inches, your book launch (if you approach it with the right angle) could be the exact thing they’re looking for.
One thing you need to keep in mind is that journalists are actively searching out for items to fill the column inches, your book launch (if you approach it with the right angle) could be the exact thing they’re looking for.
So here we have seven great ideas and tips to help you in your press release.
1) Size – keep it to one side of A4 paper or at most 350– 400 words if in an email
2) Headline – You need to start with a great headline which will grab the journalist’s attention; a weak start and only 20% will read any further. Do your research and take time to select something which will ensure they keep reading your sales pitch to them.
3) What’s the angle? – Sending in a release which simply says you’ve written a book is not going to make the news, but telling them how it was the outcome of a rags-to-riches, triumph against all odd…..etc. will stand a better chance of being picked up by the journalist.
4) Mind your language – be careful with your use of language when writing your release and avoid using clichés, telling them it’s the most revolutionary ground breaking book which will touch all who read it will only prove to them your lack of imagination, you’ll need to think a little deeper for a more original description.
5) Starter for 10 – the first 10 or so words of your release will be the most effective (along with the headline) make sure they are well chosen and entice the journalist to read further.
6) Who’s it going to? – Make sure you send it to not only the right journals, newspapers and blogs but also the correct journalist within them. Research where you’re sending it to and address your press release to the exact journalist personally.
7) What’s your number? – Make sure you include contact details so the journalist can get back in touch with you, numbers, email address and website.
Make sure you take your time on the press release, if you get this correct it will help in securing a great deal more interest for your book, research is key and there are plenty of site giving out ideas on titles and formats, you can download a free Press Release Outline by clicking on the button below.
1) Size – keep it to one side of A4 paper or at most 350– 400 words if in an email
2) Headline – You need to start with a great headline which will grab the journalist’s attention; a weak start and only 20% will read any further. Do your research and take time to select something which will ensure they keep reading your sales pitch to them.
3) What’s the angle? – Sending in a release which simply says you’ve written a book is not going to make the news, but telling them how it was the outcome of a rags-to-riches, triumph against all odd…..etc. will stand a better chance of being picked up by the journalist.
4) Mind your language – be careful with your use of language when writing your release and avoid using clichés, telling them it’s the most revolutionary ground breaking book which will touch all who read it will only prove to them your lack of imagination, you’ll need to think a little deeper for a more original description.
5) Starter for 10 – the first 10 or so words of your release will be the most effective (along with the headline) make sure they are well chosen and entice the journalist to read further.
6) Who’s it going to? – Make sure you send it to not only the right journals, newspapers and blogs but also the correct journalist within them. Research where you’re sending it to and address your press release to the exact journalist personally.
7) What’s your number? – Make sure you include contact details so the journalist can get back in touch with you, numbers, email address and website.
Make sure you take your time on the press release, if you get this correct it will help in securing a great deal more interest for your book, research is key and there are plenty of site giving out ideas on titles and formats, you can download a free Press Release Outline by clicking on the button below.
