12 Ways to Use a Press Release to Sell More Books
If you’re an author, you know that getting the word out about your book is super important. That’s where a press release comes in handy! If you sent your book on a date, the press release would be the smooth-talking wingman that helps seal the deal.
Why is a press release so important, you ask? Well, first of all, a press release can help you generate some serious buzz! When the media picks up your story, more people will hear about it and get excited to read it. Plus, it’s a great way to point out the benefits or highlights of your book and establish yourself as a respected author in your genre.
And that’s not all! By putting out a press release, you might just catch the eye of some influential reviewers and bloggers. This can lead to even more coverage and reviews of your book, which can help boost your sales and get your book into the hands of more readers. So, if you’re looking to promote your book and get people talking, a press release is definitely the way to go. Who knows, maybe you’ll even become the next big thing in the literary world!
1. Send The Press Release To Review Publications, Bloggers, And Bookstagrammers To Request Reviews
If you’re ready to unleash your book on the world, you’ll want to spread the word like a virus… but in a good way! One way to do that is by sending your press release to book review publications. Here are some tips to help you rock this strategy like a boss:
π΅οΈββοΈ Scour the web: First things first, you’ll want to find book review publications that are a match made in heaven for your genre.
π Woo them with words: It’s time to turn on the charm. Craft a pitch that’s as smooth as silk, introducing yourself and your book and giving them a taste of what makes it stand out from the crowd. Use your press release as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your pitch to each publication. Remember to link or attach the press release.
β‘οΈ Don’t be shy: After you’ve hit send on your pitch, don’t just sit back and wait. Follow up with each publication to ensure they received it and answer any questions they may have.
π Brag a little: Once the reviews start coming in, pat yourself on the back and let the world know how awesome your book is. Then, share those glowing reviews on your website and social media accounts and let them do the talking for you.
While your query letter asks them to review your book, your press release comes in like a dazzling magician, revealing all the wondrous elements of your book that’ll make them itch to dive in and review it.
Sending your press release to book review publications is like giving your book a VIP ticket to the hottest party in town. With some killer research, charm, persistence, and bragging, you can get your book in front of potential readers and start making waves in the book world.
Need a book review? Use Literary Titanβs Book Review Service to get a guaranteed review and entry into our Literary Titan Book Awards.
2. Share The Press Release On Your Social Media To Generate Buzz & Interest
Social media: it’s like a megaphone for your book, but with less shouting and more style. Social media is a great way to reach a wide audience and generate buzz for your book. Here’s how to make the most of your press release on social media:
π± Pick your poison: Start by figuring out which social media platforms are best for reaching your audience and where you feel most at home. Whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn, make sure you’re comfortable with the platform and its features.
π¬ Craft a killer message: When you’re posting your press release, make sure your message is snappy, sassy, and straight to the point. You can use sections or pieces of your press release to create social media content. Use eye-catching images or graphics to make your post pop, and don’t forget to include a link to your press release to provide even more information, which helps on places like Twitter where space is limited.
#οΈ Hashtag it up: Hashtags are the lifeblood of social media, so use them wisely! Use relevant hashtags that are popular in your genre or subject area, as well as ones that reflect your book’s themes or topics. And hey, if you want to make up your own hashtags, go wild.
Some Popular Reader Hashtags:
#Reader #BookLover #Books #Reading #BookWorm #Bookish #Bibliophile #BookNerd
π₯ Connect with your fans: Social media is all about building relationships, so make sure to respond to comments and messages from your followers. It’s a great way to build a fanbase and get people excited about your book.
Sharing your press release on social media is like throwing a party and inviting the whole world. With a killer message, the right hashtags, and some solid engagement, you can make sure your book is the life of the party.
Example
Exciting news! My new book, [Your Book Title], is available for pre-order! Check out the press release for more details on this must-read #book. [URL to Press Release]. Pre-order your copy today and share the press release with your friends, #readers, and #BookLover.
3. Link The Press Release In Your Email To Make It To Access & Share
If you’re serious about promoting your book, don’t let your email signature be an afterthought. Just like you wouldn’t go to a job interview in sweatpants, you shouldn’t send emails without a polished signature that includes a link to your press release. You want everyone you contact to be able to easily reach you and keep your book top of mind. Here are some tips for spicing up your email signature and making it work for you:
π Short and sweet: Make your link stand out by shortening it with a service like Bitly or TinyURL. That way, even the busiest bee will remember it.
How-to: You can either store the press release as a PDF on a cloud service like Dropbox, or you can create a Press Release page on your website.
ποΈ Give ’em something to remember: Along with your name and contact info, be sure to include that you’re an Award-winning Author if you received the Literary Titan Book Award. If you havenβt, then submit your book today to be entered to win.
π Know your audience: Different people have different interests, so consider customizing your signature for different groups. For example, include different links or calls to action to pique their curiosity and get them excited about your book.
π§ͺ Test it out: Before you hit send, make sure your link works properly and looks good in different email clients. You don’t want to miss out on potential readers because of a broken link.
Example
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Award-winning Author of [Your Book Title]
Get a sneak peek at my new book! Check out the press release here: [Shortened URL]
Follow me on Social Media: [Social Media Link(s)]
4. Use The Press Release To Pitch Yourself As A Guest On Podcasts, Blogs, Or Interviews With Journalists
Are you looking to get your book featured on podcasts, blogs, or in articles? A press release can help you do just that! Here are some tips for using your press release to pitch yourself as a guest or for interviews:
πͺͺ Find the right hosts/publications: First things first, do some research and find the podcasts, blogs, or publications that fit your book’s audience and style. No use pitching to a wine and cheese podcast if you wrote a book on raising goats!
βοΈ Make it personal: When reaching out, take the time to craft a personalized pitch that showcases why you’d be an excellent fit for their audience. Use your press release as a starting point and customize it to fit each host or publication’s interests.
β Be flexible: Be prepared to work around the host’s schedule and availability. If you can’t make time for a chat about your book, then they might just move on to the next author who is willing.
π§ Get ready to shine: Before your interview, do your homework! Research the host or publication, brainstorm potential questions, and practice your answers. That way, you’ll be prepared to knock it out of the park when it’s showtime!
By using your press release to pitch yourself as a guest, you can get your book in front of new audiences and grow your fanbase. While your query letter asks them to put you on their podcast or blog, your press release shows them why you would be an interesting person to interview. Just remember to be personal, flexible, and prepared β and don’t forget to have fun!
5. Share The Press Release With Your Local Newspaper To Get Coverage In Your Community
Looking to make your book the talk of the town? Sharing your press release with your local newspaper is a great way to do it, and I’ve got some tips that’ll help you get the job done with style:
π° Snoop around: Do some digging and find out which newspapers in your area are most likely to be interested in your book.
βοΈ Get personal: Write an email that really shows off your charming personality and tells the editor or reporter why their readers would be crazy not to check out your book.
π Attach away: Make sure that you attach a copy of your press release to your email so that the newspaper can get a glimpse of your brilliance. And offer to provide more information or do an interview if they want to learn more.
π Follow up (nicely): If you don’t hear back from the newspaper within a week or two, shoot them a friendly reminder email. Persistence pays off, but don’t be a pest!
By sharing your press release with your local newspaper, you’ll get your book in front of your community and create some serious buzz. So, get out there and show off your literary genius!
6. Use The Press Release To Pitch Yourself As A Speaker At Book Clubs, Libraries, & Other Events
Ready to take your book promotion to the next level? Pitching yourself as a speaker at book clubs and events is like slaying a dragon – it takes guts and preparation, but the rewards are worth it. Here are some tips to make your pitch a success:
π Scout out the scene: First, identify events in your area that would be a good fit for your book and target audience. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new venues!
π€ Flex your expertise: Use your press release to show off your skills and experience. After all, you’re not just an author; you’re an expert in your field! Highlight previous speaking engagements, relevant credentials, and any other accolades that make you stand out.
βοΈ Get personal: Craft a pitch that speaks directly to the event and its audience. Use your press release as a starting point, but make sure your pitch is tailored to their interests and needs. Remember to include a link to your press release so they can easily see all the awesome things about you and your book.
π€ Bring your A-game: When you’ve landed the gig, it’s time to prepare for battle. Plan out your presentation, practice your speaking skills, and be ready to engage with your audience. Remember, you’re not just promoting your book – you’re building relationships with potential readers.
With these tips, you’ll be slaying it on the book club circuit in no time! So, don your armor, sharpen your sword, and pitch yourself as the fearless speaker you were born to be.
7. Send The Press Release To Bookstores & Libraries To Request They Stock Your Book
Listen up, bookworms! If you want your book to fly off the shelves at bookstores and libraries, you need to use your press release to get noticed. Here are some tips to help you get the job done:
π΅οΈββοΈ Hunt down potential bookstores and libraries: Identify the ones that cater to your target audience or that are relevant to your book’s genre or topic.
π Make them an offer they can’t refuse: In your query email, explain why your book is a perfect fit for their readers. Highlight what makes it unique and why it’s worth stocking on their shelves. Go ahead, and let them know that your book is the missing piece to their puzzle. Of course, link or attach your press release, as it does all of this in one place.
π Ask, and you shall receive: When reaching out to bookstores and libraries, make a specific request for them to stock your book. Don’t be shy; ask for what you want and provide them with all the information they need to order your book quickly and easily. Also, be sure your book is available through Ingram Content Group or Baker & Taylor.
π¨ Follow up like a boss: After sending your press release, make sure to follow up with them. Check-in to see if they need any additional information, answer their questions and offer help. Keep the conversation going, and you might make a few new friends in the process.
By using your press release to request that bookstores and libraries stock your book, you’ll be getting one step closer to your goal of becoming a household name. So, don’t just sit there. Instead, start putting these tips into action, and let the magic happen!
8. Share The Press Release With Your Email List To Keep Your Followers Informed & Engaged
It’s time to spread the word about your book release to your followers! Sharing your press release with your email list is the way to go. Here are some tips for crafting an email that will catch their attention:
π Add a personal touch: Don’t just send out a generic email. Address your followers by name, and let them know what you’ve been up to. Share some juicy details about your writing process or what inspired you to write this book.
π Get to the point: Your followers are busy people, so don’t beat around the bush. Highlight the most important aspects of your press release, such as the release date, the book cover, and any notable endorsements or reviews. Give them a sneak peek and make them hungry for more.
π¨ Ask for help: Encourage your followers to spread the word about your book. Ask them to share your press release with their own networks, and make it easy for them by providing pre-written social media posts or other shareable content.
π Sweeten the deal: Give your followers a little something extra to sweeten the deal. Offer them a special incentive to pre-order your book or attend your book launch event. How about a signed copy of the book, an exclusive Q&A session with you, or a limited-edition book-related item?
By sharing your press release with your email list in a personalized way, highlighting key points, encouraging sharing, and offering a special incentive, you can make the most of this opportunity and connect with potential readers. Get ready for your inbox to blow up!
9. Host A Virtual Book Launch Party And Share The Press Release As Part Of The Invitation And Promotion
Throwing a virtual book launch party is like throwing a virtual rave, except with less glow sticks and more books. Here are some tips for making your press release the life of the party:
π Slap the press release on those invites: When you’re inviting guests to your virtual shindig, make sure to include a link to your press release. That way, they can start getting hyped about your book release, and you won’t have to yell over the music to explain what your book is about.
π¬ Use the press release as a conversation starter: During your party, use your press release as a conversation starter to get guests talking about your book. It’s a great way to answer any questions they may have and to give them a taste of what’s to come.
π± Share the press release on social media: Keep the party going by encouraging your guests to share your press release on social media. This way, you can reach even more potential readers and show off your book to the world.
π Offer swag and goodies: No party is complete without some sweet swag, so consider offering incentives like signed copies of your book, exclusive content, or even a virtual high-five for attending. It’ll keep your guests engaged and excited about your book long after the party ends.
By incorporating your press release into your virtual launch party, you can make your book release a party to remember, connect with potential readers, and leave everyone wanting more. Plus, who doesn’t love a good virtual rave?
10. Use It To Create Ads Or Other Promotional Content On Social Media
Using your press release to create ads or other promotional content is a great way to amplify your book launch and reach a wider audience. Here are some tips for using your press release to create effective ads and promotional content:
π Find your juiciest bits: Before you start crafting your killer content, hone in on the key messages or themes from your press release that will make your book stand out from the crowd.
πΈ Eye-catching visuals are a must: Want to catch people’s attention? Use visuals that are just as stunning as your prose. Whether it’s a gorgeous photo or a slick video, make sure it’s on brand and on point.
π¨ Keep it platform-specific: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook… each platform is its own unique universe, with its own quirks and vibe. So, tailor your message accordingly! Pithy tweets or snappy hashtags can make all the difference. Keep it snappy, but don’t leave them hanging! Be sure to drop a link to your press release, so they can dig deeper if they’re so inclined.
π£ Tell ’em what to do: Want people to take action? Don’t be shy – include a call to action in your ads or promotions. Make it easy and clear for readers to pre-order or learn more about your book.
π Keep tabs on your success: How do you know if your ads are working? Analytics! Use tools to track your progress, see whatβs working, stop whatβs not, refine your strategy, and keep the buzz growing.
So go ahead and amp up that book launch with some killer promotional content. Your readers (and your wallet) will thank you!
Example
Let’s say you recently published a book called “The Magic of Storytelling.” Using the key messaging from your press release, you can create an eye-catching social media ad to promote the book on various platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
The ad could feature a striking image of the book cover, along with a short and punchy tagline, such as “Discover the magic of storytelling today!” or “Unlock your imagination with ‘The Magic of Storytelling.'” You can also include a brief description of the book’s themes and benefits, as well as a call to action to purchase the book.
Remember, creating compelling ads and promotional content requires a mix of creativity, strategic messaging, and attention to detail. By leveraging your press release, you can make this process easier and more effective, helping you reach more potential readers and drive book sales.
11. Share The Press Release With Book Festivals And Other Literary Events To Increase Your Chances Of Being Selected As A Featured Author
Sharing your press release with book festivals and other literary events can help you increase your chances of being selected as a featured author. Want to get your book in the spotlight at literary events? Follow these tips to make sure you’re hitting all the right notes:
π Do your homework: Before you start sending your press release to every literary event under the sun, do some research! Find the events that fit your style and target audience, and focus your efforts there.
π€ Follow the rules: If there’s one thing literary events hate, it’s authors who can’t follow the guidelines. So, ensure you’re reading the fine print and submitting exactly what they’re looking for.
π Make it personal: Want to stand out from the crowd? Add a little personal touch to your pitch! Explain why your book is the perfect fit for their event and show off your qualifications. They want to get to know you, so give them a taste!
π Don’t be afraid to follow up: We all get busy, so it’s okay to send a gentle nudge to event organizers to make sure they got your press release. Plus, it shows you’re eager and excited to participate.
β³ Be patient, but keep hustling: Literary events get a lot of submissions, so it may take some time to hear back. Keep promoting your book and building your brand while you wait – the right event will come along soon enough!
By sharing your press release with literary events, you’ll get your book in front of the right audience and increase your chances of being the talk of the town. So go ahead and show off that book – the literary world is waiting for you!
12. Share The Press Release With Literary Agents And Publishers To Demonstrate Your Ability To Generate Buzz And Interest In Your Work
Sharing your press release with literary agents and publishers can be a power move that demonstrates your ability to generate buzz and interest in your work. Here are some tips for doing so:
π» Research like a pro: Before you hit send on that press release, do your homework and research literary agents and publishers who specialize in your genre or niche. Find ones who have worked with authors similar to you and are likely to dig your style.
How-to: You can use pw.org or Query Tracker to search for literary agents.
π Personalize your pitch: You’re not just another writer in the slush pile, so don’t sound like one! When you send your press release, personalize your pitch to show why your book is perfect for them. Highlight your relevant experience or qualifications and explain why your book will appeal to their audience.
π Give some context: Help agents and publishers understand the bigger picture of your press release. Explain why you chose to make your announcement at this particular time and how it fits into your overall marketing strategy.
π§ Don’t ghost: After you send your press release, don’t be afraid to follow up with agents and publishers to show your continued interest. They’re busy, so a gentle nudge can make all the difference.
πΌ Stay classy: Remember to be professional and courteous in your communications with literary agents and publishers. First impressions are everything, so make yours count!
Sharing your press release with literary agents and publishers can boost your book’s visibility and increase your chances of landing representation or a sweet publishing deal.
Need a query letter? Literary Titan can write a professional Literary Agent Query Letter for you.
Bonus: Distribute Your Press Release To News Sites
Publishing your press release on news sites offers a range of benefits. Firstly, it helps you reach a wider audience beyond your existing network, increasing your book’s visibility and potential readership. It also lends credibility to your book and author brand, as news sites are seen as trustworthy sources of information. Additionally, having your press release published on news sites can improve your search engine rankings, making it easier for readers to find your book online. Overall, publishing your press release on news sites is a powerful tool to generate buzz and promote your book to a larger audience.
So, you’ve got a killer press release, but how will you get it out there? Sure, you can try using sites like NewsWire ($349) or eReleases ($399), but there’s no guarantee that your news will get published. It’s like trying to get a date with a supermodel – tough luck! But don’t worry. We’ve got your back with our Press Release Distribution Service. For a price that won’t break the bank ($69), we’ll make sure your press release gets published on over 400+ news sites. Yeah, you heard that right. No more playing hard to get with the media – we’ll get your news out there. Let’s make some headlines together!
Remember
With these tips, you’ll be sure to create a cohesive and impactful marketing campaign that will help you draw in the crowds and make your book marketing a smashing success.
These are just a few ideas, but there are many ways to use a press release to promote your book. Get creative and think outside the box!
π Check out some of the press releases we’ve written, click here.
Don’t Have A Press Release Yet?
I get it. Youβre a writer, not a salesperson. Bragging about yourself and your book is hard and may feel uncomfortable. You may be asking, what makes my book special? What would people be interested to know about me? How do I string all this together in a short and punchy sales pitch? All these questions are answered in a press release.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But I’m not a marketing genius!” Well, lucky for you, you don’t have to be. Let the pros handle it. And by pros, I mean Literary Titan’s Press Release Writing Service. Weβll take your humble little book and turn it into a shining beacon of literary greatness.
So go ahead, let us do the bragging for you. Trust me, your book (and your ego) will thank you.