...There are no "secrets" to landing an interview with a newspaper columnist, a magazine editor, a known blogger, or a TV or radio personality. I simply call it perseverance. When I see an opportunity, I ask! But, some writers have a real problem when faced with that chance for their book to be noticed by the media.
I have no qualms asking for a favor or presenting my idea for an interview to people I know, or just met in the course of a gathering or networking event. Why should I? They are looking for opportunities to write articles, interview folks, or find someone who might be up and coming in their community. It is a perfect exchange: they have their article and I have exposure. Simply by asking!
I have enjoyed several interviews, but having air time is crucial. I have done a few taped and "live" shows that are tangible items to use for dissemination. Some interviews have been via blogs; my favorite blog being with Gael McCarte, and as long as you keep their links handy, they will be at your fingertips in cyberspace. I do appreciate all, but my all-time favorite ones were with Punto de Encuentro Revista Radial in April, Univision 40 in July, and Silicon Valley Latino Magazine in October. I keep track of all of them and the exposure that my book received hopefully turns up in sales which is what every author wants. Another aspect is that these links may be very beneficial in helping to land a literary agent or future publisher... One can only hope, right?
As authors, we have been told that a platform is a necessity and it becomes real when they (agents and publishers) ask for proof. Show them your interviews, media clips, etc. and be proud to have done a great job. ~ And yes, go ahead and ask!
Note: I will use this opportunity to thank the following - In order of appearance:
- El Show Internacional, with Paula Maruri.
- Punto de Encuentro Revista Radial with Monterrosa y Mejia.
- Punto de Encuentro Revista Radial with Monterrosa y Mejia.
- Colorful Journey of Success with Clare Mullin.
- GaGa Sisterhood, article by Donne Davis.
- Hispanic Lifestyle, online issue.
- Experimenta Magazine, Oct online issue, pg 32-33.
- Silicon Valley Latino Magazine, by Jose Posadas, Oct print & online issues.
P.S. Currently, a short piece is "in the works" for Vision Magazine, online issue.
ElenaMartina
Questions? Please write to: onlyelenamartina@aol.com
