On Air: How to Find the Names of TV and Radio Producers - article

Do you want to see a big spike in book sales? You have to get the word out. One way to do this is to book TV and radio spots. Interviews on air will expose you to new readers, and yeah, some of them will buy books. Big name authors do this all the time. They have hired publicists to do the legwork for them. But you can’t afford a publicist. It’s just not in your promotion budget.

Still you have to get the word out there about your book because it is awesome and deserves a readership. You have to do everything yourself. Fine. You are staring at a blank sheet of paper. Where do you begin? The best place to start is with data collection.

This will take on a two-pronged approach. Write down all the connectors you know. These are the kind of people who know everyone. They will know local TV and radio producers. These connecters come with the added bonus of being able to introduce you to their contacts. This will be your single best way into local and national media markets. The most important thing to remember here: don’t be shy.

Once you have sent emails to all of your connectors, it’s time to fire up the Internet search engines. A quick search should turn up a stack of local media outlets. Try searching by the name of your town with the words, “radio stations and TV stations.” The most likely places to feature authors are local talk shows. NPR and PBS stations are a great place to start. Look for the contact button on their websites. These stations always have programs geared toward books. Don’t just think about promoting in your town, but consider your entire region. Contact regional stations in a 100- to 200-mile radius from your home. Don’t go farther out than you are willing to drive.

Expand your search to national markets if you believe your book has national appeal. The producers and program directors of all programs will be listed in the contact pages of program websites. Keep a running log of all contact information. Include information such as when you contacted the producer and a column for a status check and an answer. If emailing doesn’t work, try calling. Keep a log of phone calls, too. The station producer will most likely direct you to the producers of specific shows. The process will start again. Keep a well-documented list of contacts and all answers received.

This process is work, but well worth your efforts. Remember you are the best voice and advocate for your book. You took the time to write it and see it published. Go the last mile and promote it. The first step for radio and TV stations is easy. Make a list.

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  • You have to promote your book yourself you have to put in the legwork you have to produce the reviews yourself and I am already doing the legwork for my new book coming out soon