The Built-In Newsworthiness of Nonfiction Books

The news is good for authors planning to self-publish a nonfiction book -- your chances of gaining publicity can be quite favorable if you collaborate with the right people to help you stand out. A book marketing services professional's job is to secure media coverage for your book. While more media outlets are available today—thanks to the internet and traditional media—the competition remains intense, so you need to make the most out of every opportunity. The first step for authors is to become proactive communicators. You might already do it as a part of life if you're naturally outgoing.

Engage on social media, write blog posts, or even create bylined articles for media outlets to increase your visibility. The more quality content you share, the more you gain attention from media gatekeepers such as editors, producers, and search engines. Establishing yourself as an expert in your field is vital, and publishing consistently will enhance your reputation. It's important to remember that the writing doesn't stop once your book is finished. You'll need to create additional content that connects to your book, typically in articles with a byline and a book mention. 

Authors in fields like business, wellness, health, and current events are often expected to provide exclusive, timely articles for the media, as they are critical components of contemporary book publicity strategies. These articles should resonate with your book's target audience and be genuinely newsworthy. If your articles attract attention, some media outlets may invite you to become a regular contributor, opening up even more publicity avenues. Since others may have similar ideas, it's essential to be quick to respond and take action. Easy availability is an excellent way to win media coverage.

Although a book publicist will spearhead your promotional efforts, your involvement as the author is equally crucial. No one understands your subject matter and potential readership better than you do, so collaborating with your publicist is key to achieving success. Staying informed about current events can also help you identify ways to relate your book to the news, creating opportunities for publicity. While your publicist has the media connections and expertise to pitch your ideas, you must prepare compelling content that aligns with trends and topics of interest to your target audience.