Description:
Smith Publicity Inc. is among the publishing industry’s most well-known and successful book marketing, book publicity, and book promotion agencies. We have promoted more than 3,500 books and authors – the most ever by any book publicity agency in the history of publishing. Started in 1997 by Dan Smith, what began as a one-person operation has evolved into an industry leader.
Smith Publicity is ahead of the curve with innovative author promotion services and strategies. We also take pride in being an equal-opportunity book promotion company. We publicize quality books in all genres, both self-published or traditionally published. Our marketing services campaigns cultivate significant media interest and coverage of an author and book. The end goals are to spark book sales, build author brands, and create opportunities beyond the book itself.
Among leading-edge author promotion agencies, Smith Publicity is well-known for being the first book publicity firm to land a New York Times feature story for a first-time, self-published novelist. We also produced some of the earliest video book trailers. The agency is credited with developing the catch-phrase, “book as a business card,” and was the first company to promote this book marketing approach. Also, we were trailblazers in using bylined article pitches for non-fiction authors.
The subject of book PR often brings up questions from authors. For anyone wondering, “how do I market my book” and “how do I get media coverage of my book,” or similar questions, please give us a call. We’re always pleased to help!
In the past, some authors let their books speak for themselves, opting to forgo a website. However, those days are behind us. Today, a solid online presence is essential for successful book marketing, with a website serving as the hub for your online identity. Readers are more connected than ever, regularly turning to the internet to gather information about books and authors alike. Not having a website can limit media inquiries and impact book sales. Creating a website doesn’t have to be complicated. Success often lies in simplicity—user-friendly sites that are easy to navigate tend to resonate best with visitors.
Essential components of an author’s website typically include their biography, photographs, and details about their books, including purchase links. If you can handle printing and order fulfillment, you might consider selling books directly on your site. But it involves managing sales tax and logistical details. Many authors opt to include links to online retailers where their books are available, which helps provide purchasing options. Publicity experts recommend providing high and low-resolution downloadable photographs, along with offering your biography in short and long versions.
Longer bios should be concise—just a few paragraphs is plenty, not an exhaustive account of your life. Another strategy is to connect a blog to your website. It gives you a platform to share real-time posts on your book’s theme or any relevant topics. Many authors find that posting one to three times a week keeps their audience engaged. The key here is to ensure the content is informative and entertaining rather than overly self-promotional. Quality content will not only enhance readers’ appreciation of your website but will also improve your blog’s visibility, boosting traffic and search engine rankings.
One notable advantage of securing traditional media coverage is its longevity. Articles, interviews, and videos tend to remain accessible online for years, allowing audiences to discover your work on demand. Unlike the past, when publicity was fleeting, today’s online presence ensures your efforts endure. Including links to your media coverage on your website invites visitors to delve deeper into your work and can be a crucial factor in driving book sales and downloads. Ultimately, a well-crafted website can significantly enhance your visibility and connect you more effectively with your audience.
