When trying to promote your book, there are a variety of ways available for you to do so. One of the most effective and reliable ways of self-promotion is to use the media; they really do have a powerful voice and presence and can help you to raise your public profile and increase your profits.

First, you need to write a press release. When doing so, make sure that what you are presenting are facts not opinion. They should include your name, title of the book, a general synopsis (not retelling the entire plot), where the book can be bought or downloaded from, and a little bit about the author. That is all. Please do not add how wonderful the book is or that it is a ‘must read’ as this will be generally ignored  because no one believes an author when they are talking about their own book; they are going to say that it is wonderful. Simply stick to the facts and keep it short and simple.

Before you send in the press release either by fax or email, phone up the radio station, local paper or television station and talk to someone there if you can. Then when they receive the press release they will be able to identify the person they spoke to with the information at their fingertips and will more easily remember you. If at all possible, make an appointment to actually meet them in person as this will give you a better chance of being promoted; they will have a better feel for who you actually are and what you represent by talking to you.

Then what you need to discuss is how they are going to go about promoting you. Will they write about you as an author? Will they advertise your book? Will they conduct an interview or organise a Q & A session? There are many avenues open to you and you need to discuss them all.

Also do not forget online news sites which have a huge presence and impact. These can be especially useful if you have a non-fiction book and you can target their specific genre and readership. You may even be able to write a guest article for them and promote your book that way.

Another option available when using the media is to offer to write a guest column or review books. This will get your name and face known, especially in the local papers and, for a relatively short amount of your time, give you free publicity.

Magazines can also be useful, especially once again if you target a specific genre or interest. They may publish a short article about yours or offer to review your book.

As an author you really have to sell yourself and put yourself out there, something that is extremely difficult for many authors. However, if you want to sell those books, people need to know about you and more importantly your name. Using the media is an excellent way to achieve this, so start writing that press release today.