WRITERS INFORMATION NETWORK
The Professional Association for Christian Writers

? create a marketing plan

? update author bio

? write book synopsis/description

? write fact information sheet compile media list for book galleys

? compile media list for press releases

? compile list to receive review books

? compile direct mail list of friends, relatives, associates, etc.

? solicit endorsements

? write cover letter to send with galleys for book reviews

? design author/speaker/new book flier and/or brochure

? have professional PR photo taken

? write press release

? decide about hiring a publicist

? secure a distributor/fulfillment plan for radio interview ordering

? write and submit magazine articles

? send galley copies if your publishing house is not going to do it

? send pre-publication announcements to media, friends, organizations

? design & print extra PR materials: postcards, bookmarks, T-shirts, pens, etc.

? mail review copies to those you know can help get the job done

? schedule media interviews with local radio and TV stations

? secure speaking engagements

? plan launch party

? create book signing opportunities

? compile endorsement page and quote review page

? work on news and feature write-ups for press

? contact local newspaper columnists and community newspapers

? collect samples of other authors PR pieces

? take another author to coffee to pick their brain about PR ideas

? check on upcoming conferences, fairs, conventions for booth space

? look into attending CBA or ABA

? establish relationships with other speakers for co-op selling

? find tie-in opportunities: homeschoolers, retirement communities, conventions

? write several professional talks based on your book

? get the word out that you're available sell yourself and your abilities

? create a newsletter for your fan club and interested friends

? establish a board of directors and list of prayer partners

? develop key contacts with the influencers in your specialty field

? Pray a lot. Keep pushing on doors.

[Excerpted from: Savvy Approach to Book Sales…Marketing Advice to Get the Buzz Going, Elaine Wright Colvin, Essence Publishing, 2000, $9.95. Used by permission of author.]