How to Create a Publicity Plan

If you’re writing a book, odds are, you’ve thought about your marketing strategy, but have you devised a publicity plan? This is a strategy that helps you gain free press and brand exposure through media outlets. A traditional example would be interviewing with the local paper or tv news station, while a modern example would be collaborating with a social media influencer.

 

Whichever route you take, the purpose of publicity plans remains the same: to gain mass exposure through the media.

 

To do this, you’ll need to create a foolproof strategy that will help you stay laser-focused on your goals.

 

Here’s how to get started!

 

A 5-Step Publicity Plan for Authors

 

Determine Your Goals

 

Before you can begin anything, you need to know your goals. 

 

Are you trying to expand your current audience, or are you hoping to gain a new one? 

 

Do you want to create brand awareness or drive people to complete an actionable task?

 

Once you answer these questions, you’ll have a better understanding of which media platforms and strategies will best suit your needs.

 

Start a Media Outreach List

 

Now that you know who you’re targeting and what outcome you’re after, it’s time to create a media outreach list. This simply means to devise an ongoing list of reporters, news stations, influencers, podcasters, or anyone else you’d like to target.  

 

Once you have a solid 10 to 20 people on your list, research each individual so you can make your pitches more personalized.

 

Prepare Your Tools

 

The next step in your publicity plan is to prepare any printed or digital content you may need. Most traditional news or entertainment outlets will require an electronic press kit or press release, while YouTubers and social media influencers are looking for more value-driven content and ideas that connect with their target audience.

 

If you need help creating an electronic press kit, tap here, and if you need help brainstorming ideas for modern media outlets, book a quick, complementary call with me today!

 

Know Your Marketing Strategy

 

Before implementing your publicity plan, ensure everything aligns with your marketing strategy. This means being aware of your social media content calendar, email marketing campaigns, and any public events like signings or launch parties. That way, it’ll be easier for you to schedule press conferences, interviews, collaborations, or any other media events.

 

Implement All the Things

 

Alright, now that you’ve determined your goals, started a media outreach list, prepped your tools and materials, and checked your marketing calendar, it’s time to start implementing your publicity plan! 

 

Send those emails, devise a follow up list, and start booking your calendar with any leads!

 

Did this article help you? If so, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! If you still have additional questions about a publicity plan, then don’t hesitate to schedule a call with me today! Whether you just need a little extra guidance or someone to do all the work for you, I’m here to help!

 

Tap here to get started!