A literary publicist promotes an author’s book through media exposure, often using connections to secure interviews and create a captivating story. Communication skills and a bachelor’s degree in communications or public relations are typically required.
A literary publicist ensures that an author, especially a first-time published author, gets as much exposure as possible to promote their book. He may work as an independent agent or be part of an advertising or public relations management organization. Some literary publicists conduct business from ordinary offices and others maintain a home office.
After an author’s book is published, a literary publicist’s job is to make sure everyone who is somebody knows about it. If he is a successful publicist, he probably has connections in the media industry that could get the author hired as a guest on a television or radio show. Typically, this requires the publicist to meet with the author and develop a positive but intriguing perspective on the writer that captures public attention and piques media interest.
The author’s vision can be a little controversial, but being captivating is often more important and durable. If investigating the author isn’t absorbing or interesting, it’s the publicist’s job to create a story. It shouldn’t be an outright lie, but just an embellishment that makes the author more endearing or mysterious enough to warrant interviews that might reveal more fascinating facts. The general belief is that if the publicist treats the author like a famous celebrity, he will become one – or at least be treated as such by the media.
A successful literary publicist is usually required to take on many roles. He is expected to present himself as a friend of the author when arranging interviews and meetings with industry contacts who can help with his promotional efforts. If the only way to get your author airtime or in some way is to hook him up with a bigger celebrity and market the two as a package deal, your role becomes that of a smart negotiator who has only the best. interviewer’s interests or media location in mind.
Exemplary communication skills often contribute immensely to a literary publicist’s success. In order to promote his client more efficiently in the media sectors, he is frequently and simultaneously contacting key people via phone, email, text messages and in person. If he does his job well, he often has to juggle his time between multiple sources to fully promote his client.
Generally, a bachelor’s degree is required to become a literary publicist. Four-year programs with a concentration in communications, public relations, publicity management and journalism are typically offered by most colleges and universities. Degrees with specializations in these areas are strongly preferred. Work experience in public relations or media communications is desirable.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
