A Writer’s Success from the Perspective of a PR Pro

A Writer’s Success from the Perspective of PR Guru Pam Perry by B. Miller

Q1 – When I first started writing my biggest concern was learning the craft of writing. It still is, come to think of it. But now as I get closer to being “publisher ready,” I’m learning how important it is to have a brand and or a platform.  Has this always been true in publishing or is this a new phenomenon? Yes, I always say if you don't have readers, you're just "journaling."


Q2 – How does a writer build a brand or an audience following? By giving out free information (positioning yourself as an expert) and speaking a lot! Also, building your writer's resume! You have to have some clips somewhere!

Also, how do you as a PR person work with the author to build that following? I work with authors a number of different ways. They can hire my company, Perry + Williamson and we do a full campaign (which is a 3 month min) or they can get coached to know what I know in a group coaching here or they can hire us as a "Pay per Placement" agent for things like an Amazon campaign or a Blog tour.

  My book, Synergy Energy, explains all three methods. They can go to www.MinistryMarketingSolutions.com/blog  and get the book or amazon. 


Q3 – If a writer chooses to work with a PR company what can they hope to gain that they couldn’t accomplish on their own?

A publicist:
·         Prepares promotional material such as press kits and press releases
·         Submits news releases and E-Blasts to media outlets (MMS has lists of them)
·         Schedules radio and/or T.V. interviews; deal with media
·         Schedules local and national appearances and/or book signings
·         Has a plethora of resources, contacts, and connections in the industry
 and help you think of creative ways to market your book (keep your market in mind) plus help with speaking Engagements are a way to promote and sell your books (You are the expert on what you write about)

Q4 – What are some of the biggest changes that you’ve seen in the publishing industry since the advent of ebooks and products like Amazon’s Kindle, Nook and the Sony Reader?
 You said it. 90% of all books are now bought online. So if that's where the readers/buyers are - so should the authors! But they are not keeping up!

Q5 – What would you say is the biggest misconception about what it takes to be a bestselling author?
 That all they need to do is have successful book signings. I have a list of 10 Tips to What Makes a Best Seller on my Blog (www.perrywilliamson.com/swag).

Q6 – What advice would you give to writers who are considering self-publishing?
 Write your marketing plan first! If you don't, you will not know what to do to move your books!  There's questions on my website where an author can do a self-assessment to see if they have what it takes to Self-Publish. If they have em. then it's a green light. If not, they know they have work to do! LOL. They can get it www.LaunchLikeAsuperstar.com  

Q7 – Before you go, Pam, I have one more question for you. Being that this is a humorous storytelling blog, we like to have a good time. What is or was your favorite TV sitcom? 

I love Seinfield. I know. I'm old but It's a classic.