Getting your book featured in major publications or on popular podcasts provides a level of third-party validation that money can’t buy. The challenge is that securing these opportunities is often less about what you know and more about who you know. This is the core advantage of working with professional book marketing experts. They bring years of established relationships with journalists, producers, and influencers to the table. Their network becomes your network, opening doors to placements that can transform your book launch from a simple release into a newsworthy event. Here, we’ll explore how to find a partner with the right connections to amplify your voice.
Key Takeaways
- Hire an expert to build your platform, not just sell your book. A professional marketer creates a comprehensive system to secure media, grow your audience, and establish your authority, freeing you up to focus on your business.
- Choose a partner based on proven results and a tailored approach. Look for a firm with a strong track record in your niche and a customized strategy that aligns with your specific goals, avoiding any one-size-fits-all solutions or bestseller guarantees.
- Focus on the true ROI: long-term brand authority. The real value of book marketing lies in using your book to gain media features, speaking opportunities, and industry credibility that extends far beyond initial sales figures.
What Does a Book Marketer Do?
Think of a book marketer as the strategic partner who connects your book with the people who need to read it. While you’ve poured your expertise into writing, their expertise lies in making sure your message gets heard. Their role isn’t just about placing a few ads; it’s about building a comprehensive system to generate awareness, create demand, and establish you as a thought leader in your field.
A great book marketer handles the heavy lifting of promotion so you can stay focused on your business. They dive deep into your book’s core message to build a promotional strategy that feels authentic to you and your brand. From shaping your online presence to getting your name in front of key media figures, they manage the moving parts of a successful book launch and beyond. Let’s break down exactly what that looks like.
Crafting Your Social Media and Content Strategy
Before a single post goes live, a book marketer starts with strategy. They work with you to pinpoint what makes your book unique and who your ideal readers are. This isn’t a guessing game; it’s a process of defining your book’s position in the market. Once they understand your audience, they build a content plan that speaks directly to them.
This plan goes far beyond simply announcing your book is for sale. It involves creating valuable content for your website, social media, and other platforms that establishes your authority and gives readers a reason to follow you. They ensure your online presence is professional, consistent, and geared toward attracting the right kind of attention for your book and your brand.
Building Your Email List
Your email list is one of the most valuable assets you have as an author. It’s a direct line of communication to your most engaged readers, and a book marketer knows how to grow and nurture it effectively. They handle the technical setup, connecting an email platform to your website and creating simple ways for visitors to subscribe.
More importantly, they help you develop incentives—like a free chapter, a helpful checklist, or an exclusive video—to encourage sign-ups. From there, they can map out an email strategy that keeps your subscribers interested without overwhelming them. This turns casual readers into a loyal community that will not only buy your book but also support your future projects.
Securing Media Placements
This is where a marketer’s connections become your greatest advantage. A skilled book marketer or publicist acts as your advocate, reaching out to their network of contacts in the media. They pitch your story and your book to journalists, podcast hosts, book reviewers, and industry influencers who can share your message with a much larger audience.
Getting your book talked about in reputable outlets provides powerful third-party validation that you can’t buy with ads. Whether it’s a feature in a major publication or an interview on a top-rated podcast, these media placements build credibility and drive significant interest. It’s their job to find the right platforms and frame your story in a way that gets editors and producers to say yes.
Developing Your Campaign Roadmap
A successful book launch doesn’t happen by accident. A book marketer develops a detailed campaign roadmap that outlines every step of the process, from pre-launch buzz to post-launch momentum. This plan includes key timelines, promotional activities, a clear budget, and specific goals to measure success.
This isn’t a “set it and forget it” strategy. A good marketer constantly analyzes data to see what’s working and what isn’t. They track website traffic, social media engagement, media mentions, and sales figures to understand the campaign’s performance. Based on that information, they make adjustments to focus on the most effective tactics, ensuring your marketing investment delivers the best possible results.
Why Hire a Book Marketing Expert?
You’ve poured countless hours into writing your book, sharing your expertise, and perfecting every chapter. But writing the book is only half the battle. Getting it into the hands of the right readers requires a completely different skill set—one that involves strategy, connections, and a deep understanding of the media landscape. While it might be tempting to handle the marketing yourself, partnering with an expert can be the single most important investment you make in your book’s success.
A dedicated book marketer or publicist does more than just send out a few press releases. They build a comprehensive campaign designed to generate buzz, secure media coverage, and establish you as a leading voice in your field. They know how to pitch your story in a way that resonates with journalists and producers, turning your book into a newsworthy event. This frees you up to focus on what you do best—running your business, working with clients, or even starting your next book—while they handle the intricate work of building your author platform. Ultimately, hiring an expert isn’t just about selling more copies; it’s about leveraging your book as a powerful tool to grow your entire brand and solidify your legacy.
Free Up Your Time and Focus
Let’s be honest: marketing is a full-time job. Between managing social media, pitching to media outlets, and coordinating launch events, the promotional work can quickly become overwhelming. As a CEO, founder, or industry leader, your time is your most valuable asset. Hiring a book marketing expert allows you to delegate the heavy lifting to a professional. Instead of spending your days chasing down contacts or trying to figure out the best way to get reviewed, you can focus on your core responsibilities. A marketer handles the entire promotional process, ensuring your book gets the attention it deserves without pulling you away from your primary work.
Gain Access to Industry Networks
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a professional is gaining immediate access to their network. Established book marketers and publicists have spent years building relationships with journalists, editors, producers, book reviewers, and influencers. These aren’t just names in a database; they are trusted contacts who are more likely to respond to a pitch from a familiar source. Tapping into this network can open doors to opportunities you simply couldn’t access on your own. Securing high-profile media placements is often less about what you know and more about who you know, and an expert brings that “who” to the table.
Solidify Your Professional Image
How your book is presented to the world directly impacts your professional brand. A strategic, well-executed marketing campaign makes you and your book appear more credible and authoritative. Professional marketing signals to readers, media, and industry peers that your work is a serious contribution to the conversation. It helps position you as a thought leader, not just an author. This polished image extends beyond book sales, enhancing your overall reputation and creating new opportunities for speaking engagements, consulting, and future projects. Just look at how many successful clients have used a book launch to amplify their entire brand.
Get a Strategy Tailored to Your Book
Every non-fiction book has a unique audience and a specific goal, whether it’s driving leads for a business, building a personal brand, or sharing a powerful message. A book marketing expert doesn’t use a generic template; they develop a customized plan tailored to your specific objectives. They’ll analyze your target readers, identify the best media channels to reach them, and craft a narrative that highlights what makes your book essential. These tailored PR strategies ensure that every marketing effort is intentional and aligned with your vision, giving your book the best possible chance to make a meaningful impact.
How to Choose the Right Book Marketing Expert
Finding the right marketing expert is less about hiring a service and more about finding a strategic partner. This is the person or team who will help share your story with the world, so it’s crucial to choose someone who not only has the right skills but also understands your vision. The best fit will be someone who feels like an extension of your own team. As you start your search, focus on four key areas: their past work, their understanding of your readers, how they collaborate, and their approach to measuring success. Getting clarity on these points will help you find a partner who can truly champion your book.
Vet Their Experience and Track Record
Before you sign any contracts, take a close look at a marketer’s portfolio. You’re looking for concrete proof that they’ve successfully promoted books similar to yours, especially within the non-fiction space. Ask for case studies or examples of past campaigns and check out their client results. Do they have a history of securing meaningful media placements? A seasoned expert will have a strong network and a deep understanding of the media landscape. Don’t just take their word for it; look for testimonials and see what previous authors have said about their experience. An expert with a proven track record brings not just skill, but confidence and industry credibility to your book launch.
Confirm They Understand Your Audience
A brilliant marketing plan for a sci-fi novel will fall flat for a business leadership book. That’s why it’s essential that any expert you consider can clearly articulate who your target readers are and how they plan to reach them. During your initial conversations, ask them to outline the audience for your book as they see it. A great partner will have already done some homework on your niche. They should be able to discuss specific channels and strategies, whether it’s through targeted podcasts, industry publications, or LinkedIn campaigns. This isn’t just about demographics; it’s about understanding the reader’s mindset, challenges, and where they go for information.
Align on Communication and Collaboration
A successful book marketing campaign is a partnership. You need to find an expert who will work with you, not just for you. A good marketer will take the time to understand your story and your goals, ensuring the promotional efforts feel authentic to you and your brand. Be sure to ask about their communication process. How often will you receive updates? Who will be your main point of contact? It’s important to find a team that is transparent and responsive. The right fit will make you feel involved and informed every step of the way, creating a collaborative environment where your feedback is valued and integrated into the strategy.
Ensure They Track Performance
Great marketing is driven by data, not guesswork. A professional book marketer should be able to tell you exactly how they measure success and what metrics they track. Vague promises aren’t enough; you want to see a clear plan for monitoring progress. Ask them what key performance indicators (KPIs) they focus on—it could be media mentions, website traffic from specific articles, or social media engagement. They should provide regular reports and be able to explain what the data means for your campaign. This approach allows them to see what’s working, what isn’t, and adjust the strategy as needed to get you the best possible results.
Top Book Marketing Companies to Consider
Finding the right marketing partner for your book can feel like a monumental task. The good news is there are fantastic experts out there who specialize in helping authors like you connect with readers. The key is to find a company that aligns with your specific goals, whether you need a comprehensive PR strategy, help with a book launch, or access to a massive audience of readers. To help you get started, here are some of the top book marketing companies, each with a unique approach to helping you share your story.
Leverage with Media PR
If your book is an extension of your personal brand as a CEO, founder, or thought leader, then a public relations-focused approach is essential. We at Leverage with Media PR specialize in securing high-impact media placements that build your credibility and authority. We focus on getting you and your message featured in top-tier outlets, podcasts, and publications. Book publicity is one of the most effective ways to reach a wide audience, and our tailored strategies are designed to enhance your brand, drive conversations, and connect you with the right people. We take a personalized, boutique approach to ensure your story gets the attention it deserves.
Reedsy
Reedsy operates as a curated marketplace connecting authors with top-tier publishing professionals, including marketers. It’s an excellent platform if you’re looking to build a custom team for your book launch. You can find experts who will help you develop a marketing plan, identify your target readers, and figure out the best channels to reach them, from social media to email campaigns. Reedsy vets its professionals, so you can feel confident you’re working with experienced marketers. This is a great option for authors who want to be hands-on and select specific book marketing services to fit their needs and budget.
Smith Publicity
Smith Publicity is a well-respected and long-standing agency in the book world, known for its work with both traditionally and self-published authors. They have a strong track record and are considered a top firm for book publicity. One of their key strengths is their use of specialized teams of publicists who have deep knowledge in various genres and topics. This means your campaign is handled by people who truly understand your niche. If you’re looking for a seasoned, reliable team to manage your self-published book marketing, Smith Publicity is a solid choice.
Author Marketing Experts
Author Marketing Experts (AME) focuses on building your author brand for long-term success, rather than just focusing on a single book launch. Founded by Penny Sansevieri, AME is known for creating customized marketing plans tailored to each author’s unique platform and goals. They understand that a successful book is often the cornerstone of a larger business or speaking career. If you’re an author who wants to build a sustainable career and a lasting connection with your audience, their strategic approach to brand-building is worth exploring.
BookBub
Unlike the other companies on this list, BookBub isn’t a marketing agency but a powerful book promotion platform. It’s a discovery tool for millions of avid readers who subscribe to receive daily emails about discounted ebooks in their favorite genres. Securing a BookBub Featured Deal can result in a massive spike in sales and visibility, often landing a book on bestseller lists. While highly competitive to get, it’s an incredibly effective tactic for reaching a huge, engaged audience. Many authors and agencies use BookBub promotions as a key part of a broader marketing strategy.
What Does Book Marketing Cost (and What’s the ROI?)
Let’s talk about the bottom line. Investing in book marketing is a significant decision, and you deserve to know what to expect financially and what kind of return you can anticipate. The costs can vary quite a bit, but think of it less as an expense and more as an investment in your author brand and long-term platform. A strategic marketing push does more than sell copies—it builds your authority, opens doors to new opportunities, and solidifies your legacy. The key is to find a partner whose services align with your budget and whose results justify the investment.
Understanding Pricing Models
The cost of hiring a book marketing expert depends entirely on the scope of your campaign. You might find a freelance marketer for a specific task starting around $50 per hour, but for a comprehensive strategy, you’ll be looking at a more significant investment. A dedicated book publicist, who focuses on promoting you as the author and thought leader behind the book, often works on a monthly retainer. The cost for a publicist can be upwards of $3,000 per month, typically for a three- to five-month engagement. This level of service goes beyond just the book, aiming to build your entire public profile.
Setting Timeline Expectations
A successful book launch doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of careful planning that often begins months before your publication date. Most comprehensive marketing campaigns require a commitment of at least three to six months to build momentum, secure media placements, and engage with your audience effectively. Before you even start interviewing potential experts, it’s a good idea to map out your goals and a realistic budget. Having a clear book marketing plan will not only help you find the right partner but also ensure you’re both aligned on the timeline and deliverables from day one.
How to Measure Your Return on Investment
For authors, especially entrepreneurs and CEOs, ROI isn’t just measured in book sales. The true return is in the growth of your brand. Are you getting more speaking inquiries? Are you being featured in industry publications? Is your credibility as a thought leader growing? A great marketing partner will work with you to define what success looks like and use advanced tools to track the metrics that matter most. They should provide clear reports on media mentions, audience growth, and engagement. The ultimate ROI is seeing your story connect with the world and watching new opportunities unfold as a result of your increased visibility, much like these client success stories.
Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring
Choosing a book marketing partner is a significant decision, and you want to make sure your investment is in good hands. While the right expert can make a world of difference, the wrong one can waste your time and money. As you vet potential partners, keep an eye out for a few common red flags. Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to look for, and it will help you find a team that genuinely aligns with your vision and goals.
Unrealistic “Bestseller” Guarantees
If a marketer promises to make your book a “guaranteed bestseller,” walk away. While achieving bestseller status is a fantastic goal, it’s never a guarantee. These claims often rely on manipulating lists for a short period rather than building sustainable, long-term sales and visibility. A reputable firm will focus on a comprehensive strategy that includes media placements, audience building, and strengthening your author platform. Paying for book promotion is an investment in your brand’s future, not a ticket to a fleeting title. Look for experts who set realistic expectations and focus on tangible outcomes like media features, increased web traffic, and authentic reader engagement.
Poor Communication or Lack of Transparency
Your book is personal. The right marketing partner should feel like an extension of your team, and that requires clear, consistent communication. If a potential firm is vague about its process, dodges questions about its methods, or is difficult to reach, consider it a major red flag. A great marketer works closely with you to understand your story and goals. They should be transparent about their strategy, provide regular updates, and be open to your feedback. You should feel like a valued collaborator in the process, not just another client on a long list.
One-Size-Fits-All Strategies
Every author and every book is unique. A marketing strategy that worked for a business book won’t necessarily work for a memoir. Be wary of any company offering a single, rigid package that they apply to all their clients. The best book marketing experts create special marketing plans tailored to your specific book, your target audience, and your personal goals. They should ask thoughtful questions to understand your vision and build a campaign that reflects your unique voice and message. A customized roadmap shows they’ve taken the time to understand what makes your work stand out and how to connect it with the right readers.
Ready to Hire? Here’s How to Start
Once you’ve vetted a few potential partners, the next step is preparing for your first conversation. Approaching this with a clear plan helps you and your potential PR firm determine if you’re a good fit. Think of it less like a sales call and more like the first strategy session for your book’s future, ensuring you start your partnership on the right foot. This preparation makes your initial meetings much more productive and sets the stage for a successful collaboration.
Prepare Your Goals and Materials
Before scheduling a call, define what success looks like. Are you aiming for more book sales, landing speaking gigs, or building your brand authority? Be specific and realistic about your goals. Gather your materials in one place: your author bio, a professional headshot, a book summary, and any existing press. Having these assets ready shows you’re serious and helps an agency see how their PR packages might align with your needs from the start. This preparation makes your first conversation much more productive for everyone involved.
Key Questions for Your First Call
Your initial consultation is a two-way interview. Come prepared with questions that go beyond pricing to understand their strategy. Ask how they identify a book’s unique angle and target audience. Inquire about their process for securing media placements and which outlets they think would be a good fit. It’s also smart to ask for case studies or to see the results they’ve achieved for similar authors. Their answers will reveal a lot about their expertise and whether their approach aligns with your vision for the book.
Set Clear Expectations from Day One
Hiring a book marketing expert is a partnership, not a hand-off. The best campaigns happen when the author is actively involved. From day one, be clear about your expectations for communication, including how often you’ll meet and what reporting will look like. Understand that you are still the face of your brand. A great marketer works with you to tell your story authentically. When you’re ready to find that collaborative partner and discuss your goals, you can book a consultation to get started.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the real difference between a book marketer and a publicist? That’s a great question, as the terms are often used together. Think of it this way: a book marketer focuses on the entire system of selling your book, which can include things like email lists, content strategy, and paid ads. A publicist, on the other hand, specializes in securing earned media—getting you and your book featured in articles, on podcasts, and on TV. For authors who are also business leaders, a publicist is often the key partner because their work builds your personal brand and authority far beyond just the book itself.
When is the best time to hire a book marketing expert? Ideally, you should start the conversation with a marketing expert or publicist about four to six months before your book’s publication date. This gives them enough time to develop a solid strategy, build relationships with key media contacts, and start creating buzz well before your launch day. A strong campaign requires a runway to gain momentum, so bringing someone on board early is one of the best ways to set your book up for success.
Can’t I just market my book myself using social media? While you can certainly use your own social media, a professional campaign goes much deeper. An expert’s role is to build a comprehensive strategy that leverages their industry connections to get you in front of new, larger audiences. They handle the time-consuming work of pitching journalists and producers, which provides third-party credibility that a social media post can’t replicate. It allows you to stay focused on your business while they focus on building your public profile.
Is book marketing only useful for a new book launch? Not at all. While a launch is a critical time, a book can be a powerful brand asset for years. Many authors hire experts to create ongoing “evergreen” campaigns that continue to generate media attention and opportunities long after the initial release. If your book is tied to your business or expertise, a sustained PR effort can help it find new readers and reinforce your status as a thought leader in your field indefinitely.
What does a successful campaign look like beyond just book sales? For most of our clients, book sales are just one piece of the puzzle. A truly successful campaign is measured by the growth of your entire brand. Success might look like a significant increase in speaking invitations, new high-value client leads for your business, or being asked to contribute to major industry publications. The goal is to use your book as a tool to open doors and create opportunities that solidify your reputation for years to come.
