Whether you are a multi-published author or in the process of penning your first novel, [share ]an author media kit is an essential time-saving tool.[/share] Also known as a “press kit,” a media kit is a collection of information pertaining to you, the author, and your book(s).
Why do you need a media kit?
Your author media kit will come in handy when you are reaching out to book bloggers, setting up book tours, contacting event planners, inquiring to publishers and agents, planning online promotions…etc. Imagine having to search through your computer files every time someone requests your author and book information. What a pain! Having it in all together in one doc will cut down on wasted time and let you get back to doing what you love- writing!
Making your media kit available on your website and blog is also a great way for others to easily find information on you and your book. You can add your media kit as an individual page, on the sidebar in a downloadable link – either way, be sure to label it clearly.
What should you include your author media kit?
Start with the basics:
Author photo
Author bio – both short and long version
Contact info – social media, email, phone number and mailing address (if applicable)
Book details – front cover jpeg, blurb, purchase links, praise/endorsements/reviews
Book awards
Press release; articles, mentions, interviews
You may also include:
Interview topics: 5-10 topics
Book club discussion questions: 5-10
Excerpts
Sharable posts and/or images
Final tips/thoughts:
Personally, I like to use Google Docs to create media kits. I like that it saves the live doc online and is easy to update and share. (This is really great for authors who collaborate with assistants and agents). You can download the doc into Word and save to your computer desktop so it can be pulled up quickly when needed.
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