Getting media attention for your self-published book can seem like an impossible task. Unlike authors with big publishing houses behind them, indie authors typically don’t have access to publicity teams and advertising budgets. So how can you cut through the noise and get your book noticed by the media? It takes strategy, persistence, and knowing where to pitch.
The first step is researching where your target readership gets their information. Are they listeners of public radio? Readers of niche magazines? Fans of bookstagrammers? Make a list of media outlets, journalists, influencers, and venues that reach your ideal audience.
Next, get clear on your hook. What makes your book truly unique and compelling? Come up with two to three sentences that capture the essence of your book and why it matters. This hook will serve as the foundation for all your pitches.
When reaching out to media, avoid generic inquiries like “Would you like to cover my book?” Instead, customize your pitch to each outlet, highlighting why your book is a great fit for their audience. Mention specific articles they’ve published that relate to your topic. Help them visualize how a piece on you would fit into their publication.
While your book itself may not be newsworthy, you can pitch stories around themes and topics related to your book. For example, if you wrote a memoir about overcoming addiction, you could pitch articles about rising addiction rates or new treatment methods. This allows you to tap into what’s currently capturing media attention.
Work your local connections first. Smaller regional outlets are much more likely to cover local authors than large national publications. Build relationships with local radio hosts, newspaper editors, and bloggers. Offer yourself as a guest expert for relevant stories. Once you gain local media coverage, use this to build your credentials when pitching larger outlets.
Use social media to make valuable connections with journalists and influencers. Share and comment on their content. Become part of their community before asking for anything. When you do reach out, be clear on what you’re offering them of value – whether it’s an interview, guest article, or book giveaway their audience would appreciate.
Partnering with non-profits related to your book’s message can provide media opportunities. Organize a fundraising event, donate a portion of proceeds, or offer your time. This creates a newsworthy story the media may cover.
While mainstream media may seem impossible to crack, podcasts are a great way for indie authors to reach their audience. Do research to find podcasts that align with your genre and message. Then listen to episodes to customize your pitch. Offer the host an interview or guest appearance.
Once you secure media opportunities, make the most of them. Come prepared with talking points related to your hook. Have stories and anecdotes ready to bring your book to life. Share multimedia content like book trailers, photos, or videos to provide visuals. Send the interviewer a copy of your book and other relevant materials.
After an article or interview goes live, amplify it through your social platforms. Share it with your email list and ask readers to post reviews. Pitch the piece to other relevant outlets. With each media mention, your credibility grows, making the next one easier to land.
Persistence is key when trying to get media coverage. Follow up politely if you don’t hear back after pitching. But also know when to move on. Getting the attention of top-tier media takes time, especially when you’re starting out. Focus on building genuine relationships that could pay off down the road.
While media attention provides validation, it isn’t required for success as an indie author. Many quietly sell thousands of books through word-of-mouth without major coverage. Focus on writing a great book, connecting with readers online, and slowly growing your platform. Media opportunities will naturally follow over time. But avoid gimmicks or controversies just for attention.
With strategic outreach, persistence, and patience, indie authors can get their book noticed by media. But ultimately, nothing beats crafting a book that resonates with readers and spreads organically. Media buzz fades, but a book that profoundly impacts people will continue changing lives for years to come. Keep your focus on writing with purpose and meaning. The rest will follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of media outlets should I pitch my self-published book to?
Start local with smaller regional outlets like local radio, newspapers, and blogs. Once you gain local coverage, use this to build credibility when pitching larger national publications. Podcasts are also a great target.
How can I customize my media pitch?
Avoid generic pitches. Research the outlet and highlight why your book specifically fits their audience. Mention their past related coverage. Help them visualize how a piece on you would fit their publication.
What if my book itself isn’t that newsworthy?
Pitch stories around themes and topics related to your book. Connect to current events and trends that are capturing media attention right now. Offer yourself as an expert source.
What’s the best way to connect with journalists and influencers?
Engage genuinely on social media by sharing and commenting on their content. Become part of their community before asking for anything. Communicate what you can offer them of value.
I’m not getting any media bites – what should I do?
Persist with follow-ups but also know when to move on. Focus on building relationships over time. Success doesn’t rely on media – keep writing a great book and connecting with readers. Opportunities will follow.
