Press kits are essential for promoting books through the media. Successful authors are proactive with their PR efforts, and a press kit is one of the first steps at obtaining much-needed ink.
Benefits of Online Media Kits
Online press kits, which are also referred to as electronic press kits, vary from the traditionally printed press kit. Many reporters and editors rely much more heavily on the online press kit, especially in light of the online news boom. Links and images are often required for news stories.
Electronic media kits have additional benefits as well. The individual elements can be distributed via e-mail, and they’re necessary sections of online newsrooms. The following components of online press kits for authors should serve as a guide. Books that cover highly technical or uncommon topics may need additional documents to explain complexities or jargon.
Components of Online Press Kits for Authors
- Biography – Media kits need a biography of the author that includes professional accomplishments, career milestones and other published books, if applicable.
- Book Synopsis – The synopsis is a one-page document that describes the book’s key points and themes. Include a synopsis for each book.
- Sell Sheet – Journalists need quick access to basic facts in a sell sheet, such as price, date of publication, format, book dimensions, page count and a brief summary. It should not exceed one page.
- Book Review(s) – An online press kit can include several book reviews. If published online, include links to the reviews too.
- Latest News and Press Releases – Categorize press releases and news announcements by date, the most recent displayed first. A “latest news” document with headlines and summaries can be e-mailed to a reporter if requested. Authors can also include podcasts and video clips of broadcast interviews.
- Images – A press kit should include headshots of the author and jpg images of book covers.
- Story Topics – If desired, authors can include a list of possible story ideas and interview topics related to their books.
- Contact Information – List the contact information for the author or the professional responsible for scheduling interviews and handling other media requests. Contact information can also include links to social media networks, such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
A press kit is one of the primary ways that authors can package books for the media. They provide journalists with information that’s necessary for crafting stories. They also enhance an author’s credibility with the media.
To learn more about working with the media, visit How to Prepare for a News Interview and How to Develop Relationships with Reporters.
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