Related Article Content

It's hard to say it any better: "Publicity is the voice of visibility." And its lesson to authors is clear nothing can spotlight your book faster than good publicity.

But how do you find a publicist that best fits you and your book? Here Marsha Friedman, CEO of Event Management Services Inc, a national publicity firm shares her 10 tips to find the best publicist for your book.

1. Publicists often specialize in different genres of books (e.g., non-fiction, fiction, children's books, religious titles, etc.). So, if your book is religious, find a firm that specializes in religious media as they'll have the strongest contacts and will know which shows and publications represent the best exposure for you. Marsha Friedman says, "Same goes for all of the other genres as well."

2. If your book has a very unique subject or audience -- e.g. charitable giving, or secrets of the cable TV industry, etc. -- it's unlikely you will find a publicist who specializes in just that topic. Marsha Friedman adds, "You don't want a publicist that will rush through your topic and campaign to varying successes. Choose one who is interested enough to ask questions and really grasp what your message is."

3. Make sure that the publicist is a specialist in your choice of media. Marsha Friedman says, "Every publicist you come across may not be specialized in the tv, radio or print that you desire. It is a known fact in the industry that if a publicist does not specialize in the media you choose, they will refer your business to another company." So if you have written an exercise book, then TV would be best. Thus you would need to find a publicity firm that specializes in TV.

4. Make sure that you request to see sample campaigns. Sure, it will be the publicist's best foot forward, but a sample will still demonstrate their skill and proficiency at obtaining media.

5. Along with reviewing sample campaigns, speak to past clients, too, if you have the slightest hesitation about engaging their services.

6. Make sure to look at the price tag and shop around. Don't use the most expensive publicity firm simply based on the fact that they have a fancy address in a major metropolitan city.

7. And speaking of fees - in the book industry you'll find many publicists who work on a performance or project basis. This is not at all common with PR firms in other industries -and an opportunity you want to take advantage of. So, steer clear of monthly retainer based firms."

8. Get past a prospective PR firm's sales hype and find the firm you feel will get the job done. Marsha Friedman says, "The problem an author can run into is the sales person they speak with and build confidence in, is not always the person who will be handling their campaign. So, don't be shy about asking who will be writing your press releases and who will be pitching you to the media. You need to see what their experience level is, the amount of time they were at the firm and anything else you want to know about them. After all the time, money and hard work you invested in writing your book, you want to make sure your campaign isn't being delegated to a rookie out of college."

9. Don't limit your search to local agencies. Especially if you're looking for regional or national reach. You don't have to regularly have face-to-face meetings with your publicity firm. The work involved can be done via phone. So focus your efforts on finding the best publicity..period!" 9. One last point - find a firm that has an understanding of your topic and an enthusiasm for your message! Many times, the determination of your publicity team can be a major reason for their successes in obtaining media coverage for you.

So there you go! Go out and there and find the best publicist!just make sure to use these 10 vital tips! If you would like to learn more about gaining national media exposure for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Marsha Friedman is here to help . Feel free to contact her directly at mfriedman@emsincorporated.com or visit her firm online at http://www.emsincorporated.com. As a public relations expert Friedman has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without budget busting monthly retainers.

Marsha Friedman has been a leading authority on public relations for nearly two decades as CEO of Event Management Services, Inc (EMSI). If you would like to receive her free Ebook "How to Be a Great Talk Radio Guest" visit http://www.emsincorporated.com.