Launchpad: Tips for a Successful Book Launch
TIPS FROM …
Ruth Chamblee, vice president, retail marketing, National Geographic Books
1. Use author questionnaires.
We have an extensive author questionnaire that asks about the authors’ media contacts and experience; for ideas of courses and awards the book might be appropriate for; and people they think might offer a quote for the book. We also ask about their previous marketing experiences. We utilize our authors to the fullest extent.
2. Rethink book tours.
I think the traditional author tour with visits to around 20 cities is waning, and there are other ways to get media in those markets. Book tours are exhausting for authors, and I’d rather take their time and do a satellite radio or TV tour. You can very efficiently reach more consumers.
- Companies:
- Barnes & Noble
- Time Inc.
- YouTube
- People:
- Ruth Chamblee