Traditional media has an immediate and powerful impact. It also has the advantage of a targeted audience. Imagine someone you know is going to be interviewed on TV. You’d call up your friends all excited saying, ‘guess what? Johnny’s on Ellen tomorrow!’ A little more impressive than Johnny’s just updated his blog, Facebook status, or Tweeted something. Of course not everyone gets onto a national TV show, but you get the gist. It would be just as exciting to be on a local or state wide TV program. And if you do get invited, you can Tweet it ‘til the cows come home, splash the news all over Facebook, and update your LinkedIn profile to include ‘guest commentator on National TV’ or however you want to spin it.
But traditional media doesn’t work that way. They want the best. Why would they choose someone with no ‘real world’ experience to be a guest on their shows? Media professionals need authors and experts who are authorities in their field. They want to interview novelists and non-fiction writers with professional credibility and accomplishments, as well as a good story to tell.
Above all, traditional media outlets have a stable and established viewing audience. Online you don’t have this advantage. A Facebook or Twitter post is never guaranteed to reach tens of thousands (or even millions) in one go, like a TV or radio interview. Unless of course, you’re already famous.
TV appearances and radio interviews can really spice up your bio.
Here are two short bios. Which one sounds most impressive?
Environmental strategist Jack Jones has written a book on environmental protection, ‘Saving the Planet.’ He has a Facebook page with 790 friends, is on LinkedIn and uses Twitter. He has a blog and a website, with 16 followers. He also has some amateur videos on You Tube.
Jack Jones, an environmental strategist, has been interviewed repeatedly on NPR, PBS, CNN and ABC News, sharing his expertise on environmental protection, which he outlines in his new book ‘Saving the Planet.’ Jones will also be featured on the National Geographic Channel this Fall.
Securing appearances on major media outlets is an asset, putting you far ahead of the competition.
Since it’s such a selective process, the media will notice you because of your impressive platform, and here’s where having an active presence online is important. Information about your knowledge and accomplishments must be easily accessible, and a website or blog is essential for this purpose. Just make sure they’re good. Most people will have to aggressively market themselves and pitch media professionals with ideas for shows or features, convincing producers and journalists that they’re a great fit and have something valuable to offer viewers/listeners/readers.
Through blending the traditional and new media you get the best of both worlds, and reach a truly diversified audience.
Media expert, producer and journalist Alison Hill, coaches authors and speakers, helping them secure traditional media attention that can elevate their careers. Alison also teaches authors how to prepare for these important engagements, by creating clear, compelling messages to successfully market themselves and their work. And she offers interview tips that help authors really connect with audiences, who are all potential readers and fans! Make a lasting impression with every appearance. Become a Media Darling with Alison Hill.
Alison also offers marketing strategy sessions and media pitch reviews for individuals or groups, through Alison Hill Media. We will review your material and background, and offer a strategy and marketing plan that will make you stand out. If you want to be recognized and sell more books, you must first dazzle the media. http://www.alisonhillmedia.com/
You can find this information and more in Alison Hill’s new workbook, ‘Media Ready, Media Savvy, The Media Workbook for Authors.’ WHAT to say. HOW to say it. WHO to say it to. http://www.mediaready-mediasavvy.com/
Alison,
You have done it once again. I’m so impressed with your intuitiveness and ability to express it ways that connect with others. You have an innate characteristic that exudes passion for what you believe in. You are where you should be. You are serving your dharma.
Continue your vital and important work.
Best Regards,
Don
Donald L. Vasicek
Olympus Films+. LLC
The Zen of Writing
http://www.donvasicek.com
dvasicek@earthlink.net