It’s been years since I ingested cotton candy and thought it was fun. Not much more than sugared air, the memory of eating it only lingered as long as my blue lips. However, the good time I had at the county fair became a good memory. And a perfectly ripe apple keeps me coming back year after year to relive that experience. In marketing your book the goal is to keep the readers coming back to see whether you have anything new out, to share what they read with friends, and be loyal fans.
One of the quickest and easiest ways for your book to be noticed is to be a guest on a radio show. People still listen to the radio at work, while driving their cars, or as background at home. Most radio interviews happen on the phone, so you can sell books while in your robe and slippers. Make each minute count during your interview. Offer tips, be a storyteller, and catch audience’s interest. For most people it’s easy to talk or teach in an interview, however to capture someone’s attention long enough to have them buy your book takes skill and practice.
Making Your Radio Interviews Count Part I
Make sure listeners know who you are. Give the host an introduction that is exactly how you want to be introduced. What is the most advantageous way of describing you and your book?
Never say “the answer is in my book”. Both hosts and the audience hate that. Instead you could respond with “we address that issue through what we call problem solving tools. Active listening is one of the techniques we use. Active listening involves…” And then you can add “there are a number of other tools we offer in the book.”
Practice answering a list of questions in front of the mirror, with family, while driving in your car. Practice until you are easily answering the questions you include in your media kit. Then have your family ask questions not on the list and be spontaneous with your answers. (Or you can hire a radio show coach to guide you through the ropes.)
Clearly state how people can purchase your book, and inspire them to action. During the interview talk about your website. What else will people learn by going to your website? Make sure the host knows the name of your website so they can mention it also. Mention how your book might be a good gift for Aunt Susan who likes books on wildlife, or how Dad always wants to know more about cooking. Give them a reason to buy the book for someone else besides themselves.
Come back next week for Part II “Making Your Radio Show Interview Count”.
Copyright Mari Selby April, 2010 www.selbyink.com