Begin with the end in mind. This is one of Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Successful People. It's potent, catalytic and essential at the beginning of any journey. Begin with the end in mind. . . How often do we merely begin with just the next step in mind? And rush forward with no real sense of what the big picture will look like. No real sense of the resources we will need, or the amount of energy we need to commit.As promised in my last post, over the next six months, Robin and I will be breaking down the seemingly unnerving task of bringing a new book into the world-- introvert-style. We are using my new book Ten Lucky Things... as the proverbial guinea pig.
We'll consult industry experts and successful authors who know how to build a buzz. We hope to hear from some of you that have launched titles-- what efforts were well-spent, and what you might not do again, next time down the road? And, we want to hear from the pre-published, too. What ideas do you have?
So, what is the end that I envision? What do I hope to have accomplished by my release date in July?
I visualize myself with a profound sense of satisfaction that I have done all that I can possibly do to assist my editor and publicity dept over the past months. I am rested, excited and optimistic. I have a number of books signings and speaking engagements lined up. The independent booksellers in my area could easily pick me out of a lineup. My website is professional and updated. I have created a press release and I'm not afraid to use it. (This being one of those stretch goals). I have used what I know about my personal style and my skills to create a buzz that that is creative, enticing, and focused. I am confident, excited and ready to see my work in the hands of readers.
Week One Homework:
1. Contact editor and let her know I'm RWA (ready, willing, available) to start. Brainstorm some possible activities for the next few months, e.g., book conferences, ALA.
2. Do some on-line browsing, shopping for reasonable postcards, bookmarks, etc. Play with design. (Ask SVP readers for fave companies!)
More to come!
Mary
2 comments:
I am making notes of these assignments for my own future reference!
I once saw a publicist speak at a writer's conference. He talked about targeted press releases. For example, if you grew up in Chicago, you emphasize that fact in releases to the Chicago area so they have an extra hook. If you now live in Orlando, you emphasize that in Orlando releases.
You may know this already, but I mention it for whatever it's worth.
Thanks, LA!
Great tip-- yes, I think you use whatever tie-in you can. I know I'm always interested in reading/seeing/hearing about people that are locals or that I feel some connection to.
Best,
Mary
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