top of page

Group

Public·118 members

Smith Publicity
Smith Publicity

Surprise: U.S. Mail Still Helps Book PR



There's no denying that the internet—through email, blogs, and news sites—significantly impacts book marketing services today. However, with print books still far surpassing digital sales by over 4-to-1, the distribution of physical copies remains essential during marketing campaigns, often relying on traditional mail. Many influential reviewers and journalists appreciate receiving hard copy media kits, emphasizing the role of snail mail. This aligns with direct marketing insights showing that mailed items, like postcards and flyers, are highly effective since people tend to prefer tangible copies. 


Further supporting snail mail, surveys indicate that more than half of Americans enjoy receiving physical items in their mailbox. This preference extends to business communications, where hand-addressed envelopes can increase response rates, as recipients generally overlook generic junk mail. Thus, combining traditional mail with electronic outreach can significantly enhance marketing effectiveness during a promotional effort. Sending hand-addressed mail to those likely to ignore emails gives you a competitive advantage and is a cost-effective strategy to explore for most book launch campaigns. 


Some authors, publishers, and their publicists also make use of overnight delivery services to capture the attention of high-profile media. While this approach can be costly and should be reserved for special moments, it undoubtedly grabs attention. This highlights the enduring importance of traditional media coverage, an essential (and somewhat classic) tactic for promoting books. Although online promotions are crucial, they also have their limitations. Industry professionals generally agree that high-profile books need more than just online marketing strategies; they require diverse support to stand out truly. 


Successful book marketing and promotion today necessitates careful planning and a dedicated budget; it's not a task that can be done haphazardly. As you develop your strategy and allocate funds, it's wise to incorporate a snail-mail component alongside your email outreach. However, it's important to note that some media outlets prefer electronic review copies to save office space. Experienced PR professionals typically know which formats each outlet favors. This underscores the value of hiring a publicity firm to help you reach as many key contacts as possible, ensuring your book has every opportunity for success.

About

Welcome to the group! You can connect with other members, ge...

Members

Group Page: Groups_SingleGroup
bottom of page