If you’ve never assembled a media kit before, determining the contents can be daunting. What should you include? What should you leave out? I’ve been a freelancer for 38 years and made many press kits. Buying folders is the first step.
Purchase folders that have slits for business cards. The color of the folder should enhance the cover of your book. I glue a cover printout to the front of the folder. Keep in mind that glue may not stick to a folder that has a glossy finish.
The next step is to make a contents list. A media kit has two purposes: 1) inform the media about your book; 2) save the media time. When a person opens your kit, they should get a feel for your book immediately. Here is my contents list.
Copy of your book. Giving away books is, by far, the cheapest form of advertising. I put the book on the left side of the folder, along with my cover letter.
Cover letter. Writing this letter can take days. Tell what makes your book stand out from the crowd. Be concise and bullet points if necessary. Thank the person for their interest.
Business card. Your business card is a mini portrait of you. If your cards are dated, get new ones. Though some websites let you design your own card, I hire a graphic designer. Be sure to use a current photo.
Bookmark. Bookmarks are useful and a form of advertising. I ask the same graphic designer to design my bookmark. Secure the bookmark to the folder pocked with a paper clip.
Publisher’s information sheet. WriteLife and BQB Publishing have excellent information sheets and you may as well take advantage of them. I also put this insert in the left pocket.
Reviews. Before your book went to press, you may have gotten reviews from influencers. Though these reviews are printed in the front of a book, I make a separate reviews insert.
Features and Benefits comparison sheet. This insert pertains to nonfiction writers. Here are the comparisons for my book, Happy Again! Your New and Meaningful Life After Loss.
Features Benefits
Casual writing style Easy reading, holds you interest
Bold headings Help you skim read
Information Packed with info and real-life stories
Resource list Additional grief support for you
Planning pages Encourage proactive steps
Q and A sheet for journalists/reporters. This is a time-saver for the media. Include questions such as, “Why did you write this?” “What is the theme of your book?” “Will there be a sequel?”
Newspaper or magazine article. An article proves your credibility. Resist the urge to include several articles. One article about your book is enough.
The newspaper article, Q and A sheet, features/benefits comparison sheet, reviews sheet go in the right pocket. Once you’ve gotten the hang of assembling a media kit, the job is easier and faster. You’re a published author and a pro!