Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Want to Create more buzz for your book or ministry? Online Marketing is what is hot!

In 2010 We are introducing a BRAND New Ministry Marketing Solutions - teaching social media & internet marketing! Creating major Christian book buzz online!





The Web 2.0 World


Of course the latest to trend in the network and internet marketing community is the Web 2.0 world of blogs, YouTube, Twitter and the like. The use of videos in various social networks in order to communicate and establish a following with the subscribers has become ubiquitous. The net result of all this is that seemingly the most effective way to communicate with potential subscribers, or even to acquire subscribers and customers these days is probably through the use of videos.

Videos have a number of advantages, including the ability to present yourself as a sincere and a knowledgeable person in a face-to-face way. A potential subscriber or customer is more likely to buy from someone they they feel like they know.

So consequently, it’s almost imperative these days that you use the video medium in order to communicate with potential prospects to turn them into eventual customers.

Click here to join Easy Video Producer
This new easy video producer software system appears to offer a simple and easy, no cost way for the experienced, and particularly the relatively inexperienced non-technical networker to make effective use of videos for viral list building and business promotion. My new affiliate partner!


Written in part by Rich Keesling

Check it out! You can visit the site at bit.ly/ministryvideos

See http://www.pamperryprcoach.com/too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/!

Monday, December 21, 2009

My Prayer for Christian Authors in 2010




Heading into my first full decade of doing business as Ministry Marketing Solutions, I am happy for all that I have seen in the world of Christian publicity. But on the other hand, I am saddened by the ego-starved “gospel celebrities” it has created.  I mean, when did the authors and preachers try to outshine the TRUE Source?  
 

When I first stepped out of the corporate boat to this “calling” to help authors-with-a-Message market themselves, I struggled. I personally took a pay cut (really pay halt for the first few years) and personally sacrificed a lot to make it work.
But I knew God called me to this arena and I remained faithful giving the best I had to ministers, churches, Christian authors & publishing companies. My mission: To Market the Message in Excellence. I stay true to my mission – helping those who are serious to brand better, market more consistently and learn how to use technology to expand their ministry. (see http://www.ministrymarketingsolutions.com/)

But over the last decade, I have seen some things that would shock and amaze most.  Ministry Marketing has changed – it’s more competitive.  And when there is competitiveness, it breeds jealous and envy. And where there is envy, you get confusion and you know that’s where all evil work lurks.
My prayer for 2010 and beyond for those in the industry of ministry:

1.       To know that no matter how wonderful you write or how pretty your website is, if you do not have the right heart motive – it won’t fly.   If you are “Christian” because you think there is a “market” for your stuff and you’ll make a ton of dough – you’ll be in for a shock. God don’t like ugly . So, don’t try pimp or play with God’s people. Playing with fire will get you burnt.

2.        To learn how to represent JESUS in a contemporary, fresh and creative way.  Know that the standard you give to your “regular” job is even higher when you put a “Christian” label on it. Our “brand” can change lives. So, my prayer is that authors and ministry leaders take the time or invest the money to make it as professional possible. If vulgar hip hop artists spend tons of money on branding – why can’t a Christian? It just takes creativity and the right team. Image matters even when you are trying to attract people to Gospel. Who would want to attend a church that is broke down? Consequently, who would want to read a book with a cover that is “jacked up” or a hot mess? Step it up. Don’t copy the world – out do ‘em! Our God is greater.

3.         To learn how to work together and create synergy energy. There is strength in numbers – and an anointing when we combine God-given talents and resources.  So many ministries and Christian authors tend to think they are the only one hearing from God. Not true.  God wants His people to work as one body jointly fit together.  This is hard for many because they want to get all the credit or be in the spotlight – well, you can get the spotlight and miss the real applause from the one who matters the most - JESUS!  My prayer is that I quit getting so many emails asking me to help them get on the New York Times best-seller list or Oprah – and they concentrate on what God really told them do.  God will provide provision for the vision. Trust HIM. I pray that greed be removed from the heart of ministry leaders and they concentrate on doing purpose.  In doing purpose, it may take a team of folk to complete it – and that’s good.  It’s about a movement. It’s about unity. It’s about something bigger than you.  



When you contact a marketing company – as with anything – pray first.  Know why you want to hire a firm and how much you’re willing to pay.  Keep your expectations realistic.  Don’t expect them to build your platform in 3 weeks. Anything that is sustaining will take time. There are no over-night successes.  And then, look at the company’s track record and see who they have partnered with in the past.  Their associations matter because you can see where you “fit” or if you will fit at all. You can tell a lot about a person by the company they keep.
Finally, select a company that will help you get to where you need to go based on what God told you – FOR this season. And honor that company by being professional and having integrity when engaging their services.  Stay true to the vision that God gave you, be diligent and He will bring it pass.  Remember, humility before honor.

Free resources: See http://www.pamperryprcoach.com/too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/com!
Pam Perry PR


Hear the Synergy Energy podcasts at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ministrymarketingsolutions
Wordle: pam perry

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

5 Ways To Increase Your Website Traffic


Have you screamed, "I need traffic to my website!"? With over 500 million Google searches taking place daily: How do you get traffic to your website?



It’s evident that anybody could own a website because there are millions online today. With the internet being the fastest growing information vehicle everyone is taking it for a ride.


Think about it! How many people do you know are using the internet to sell their own products and services to reach their target market? How many of these individuals place strong efforts to promote their website with a low marketing budget?


Out of the millions of websites on the internet today, the vast majority aren’t experiencing continuous traffic all day through. What these individuals or businesses lack are the most essential factors of success – applicable and practical techniques that work.

I give kudos to those who have mastered the ability to capture website traffic every hour. However, should you be in need of assistance to increase your traffic, here are few affordable and practical techniques.




Search Engine Submission is one of the most basic and practical techniques anyone can implement.



This is an inexpensive method of traffic generation through the use of search engines. The action is just as it reads, which is submitting your website to search engines. There are two types of search engine submission – manual and automatic.



- Manual Search Engine Submission – the process of visiting each search engine and submitting your website, by filling out the required information.



- Automatic Search Engine Submission – completing the require fields, the software or web based service would forward the information to other search engines


A few other practical techniques to increase website traffic to your website are:

- Banner Advertisement

- Classified ads

- Text links

- Section sponsorship


These techniques will cost more, but these methods will help you reach your target audience wherever they frequent the most on the internet.

This is a process, so remember that the effects of these practical traffic generation techniques will grow over a time span, so be sure to monitor your website traffic to learn which methods and techniques are working.

The time is now; find an effective and affordable traffic generation technique to increase your current results on the internet today.




=================

About The Author

C.F. Jackson, author and website makeover trainer offers a free downloadable Website Makeover 101 Session at Get LinkedOut. Ms. Jackson has been interviewed on Writers Life Chat, Millionaire Monday Series by John Di Lemme, Millionaire Blue Print Now and Atlanta’s WVEE (V-103) radio shows, to name a few. Use LinkedIn to reach 1,000s of your target market's email boxes...weekly or daily
=================


What if you could increase your web traffic by 70%…. What would you do? It’s easy! Learn more about how to increase your website traffic using 8 simple steps on LinkedIn, C.F. Jackson invites you to claim your Free VIP training when you visit www.bit.ly/getlinkedout
 
 
 
Also get free Twitter training videos at www.brandingsuperstar.com

Tuesday, December 08, 2009

This is it: The #1 Solution to make 2010 better than 2009! Social Media Marketing Teleseminar


DON'T WAIT FOR THE MEDIA...BE THE MEDIA!





   



(get the mp3 replay)



I'm giving away my secrets about online branding & PR!







Get the free "Be The Media" mp3 download of David Mathison (author of Be the Media) with Pam Perry (of Ministry Marketing Solutions) discussing Web 2.0, PR trends and new media techniques.

www.pamperrypr.com

David Mathison is an internationally recognized media expert with more than 20 years experience in content distribution. Some of the world's largest - and smallest - publishers use his solutions to directly connect with massive audiences for maximum exposure. His legacy provides global citizens with free news, financial data, audio and video information on the web's most popular sites.

 ------------------------------------------------
Hey, you are going to love this!


Have you ever wondered why some artists, authors and entrepreneurs make a fortune, while others struggle financially?


Would you like to learn how to boost your business, spread your message to more people, and earn a lot more money based on your expertise, products, or services - without a lot of work or expense?

 
Well, I have great news. I'm doing a YEAR-END special teleseminar next Tuesday, Dec. 15 that will tell you how to market yourself like a media pro.



In this teleseminar you'll learn how to:


  • Infuse your traditional PR methods with new social media tools
  • Create PR campaigns that will extend your reach and coverage
  • Raise your online visibility and drive website traffic

This teleseminar will be loaded with practical advice and will include a downloadable workbook that will be your social media guide for 2010!





In other words, it's a terrific handbook for promoting your business, your ministry, or your book with the same level of professionalism a publicist might employ.



This YEAR-END Teleseminar with me will be the best way to learn how to "reinvent" yourself, brand better and help you build out your platform for the new decade!



  
Don't miss this important teleseminar and learn how to:


Self-publish your book, podcast, video, blog and leverage internet syndication, create radio and television shows and promote on social networks


Control your future by developing multiple streams of income from diversified sources


Deploy surprisingly easy strategies to get massive publicity and tons of media exposure


Discover simple things you can immediately do to dramatically increase the profit you make from your books, products and services



I will reveal my secret on how to get on the first page of google!

 
Order now, and get FR.EE one-hour mp3 of me and David Mathison, author of "Be The Media." You'll learn how Mathison pre-sold 5,000+ books on Twitter and secured a slot on the radio dial with a major network through Facebook.


But wait. There is even more!




Get The Synergy Energy book by me and the Obeys.


ALL FOR JUST $47.00


 Order and get access the mp3 download NOW:


http://www.pamperrypr.com


You will be glad you did!


PS: I am so confident that you will be satisfied with this mp3 teleseminar that I am offering a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. So, you have NOTHING TO LOSE!








 God bless - follow me on Twitter & Join my fan page. :)


Pam Perry, PR Coach & Social Media Expert


http://www.ministrymarketingsolutions.com/


www.twitter.com/pamperry


www.facebook.com/pamperryfanpage









See http://www.pamperryprcoach.com/ too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/!

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

So, you want to Self Publish A book....

Social Networking - Grow Your Business
Click and hear branding super star Guest blogger: Lashanda Henry on Blogtalk Radio SYNERGY ENERGY SHOW from Dec. 2, 2009. Here's her post:

As a Black Entrepreneur, finding the finances to fund your project is often easier said than done. It is for that reason that self-publishing my first book sounded like a great idea to me and possibly the same holds true for you. Having self-published several books, I've learned a few things along the way that I thought might be of interest to any writer interested in entering the world of self-publishing.



This is the first of several of my featured posts entitled 'Black and Self Published.' In these posts I'd like to share with you everything I've learned as a young author/ Black Entrepreneur. I'm going to show you how I published my first book, what resources I used, why I both love and hate self-publishing, and the valuable lessons that I have learned along the way.


First and foremost I want to point out that self-publishing is not for everyone. I chose to self-publish for a number of reasons. I had very little startup capital. I didn't want to spend months or even years sending my story to publishers. I had the word processing/graphics skills to design my own book and I was really eager to see my work in print. In hindsight, I now realize that rather than seriously planning a business strategy for publishing and marketing my book, I was more focused on printing the book at a price I could afford. At that time, it seemed like the best thing to do, but honestly you can never go wrong when you sit down and seriously device a plan that is both realistic and will benefit you in the long run. I'll go into more detail about this a little later, but I wanted to start off by making it clear that self-publishing isn't an easy alternative to creating your book. Like mosts things it has both benefits and drawbacks.


As I mentioned above, dealing with publishers was the last thing I wanted to do so that first thing I did was goolge 'publishing your own book', which quickly opened my eyes to the world of self-publishing. Of the many websites I stumbled upon the two that stood out were iUniverse and lulu.com. I was impressed by iUniverse when I learned that several well known authors started off from the site, but I ultimately chose to go with lulu.com because I wasn't interested in paying for an editor/cover designer/etc. I planned on doing that stuff for myself and I honestly didn't have a couple of hundred of dollers to invest in their services. Though their program wasn't right for me, it might be right for you if you need that extra guidance and support.


Once I signed up for lulu.com, I was ready to transform my ideas from pen to print. Lulu.com is a premier self-publishing website. It is free to join and they provide print-on-demand services. The great thing about print on demand is that you only need to pay for the books that you order to be printed, which is a great way to cut your initial startup costs. However, what I learned later is that the less you pay initially for the printing of your book, the less you gross back in profit. Print on demand books tend to cost more to publishing because generally speaking, the orders are smaller.

In other words, the more you order in bulk the cheaper the cost per book. This is why many self-published authors tend to invest several hundred dollars into initially printing a bulk of books. In doing so they can charge less for their books without needing to markup the price to make up the profit. This is why print-on-demand books tend to cost more money, especially illustrated books printed in color. It is almost impossible to publish children's books through print-on-demand because the cost per book is just too high. But again, apart of cutting printing costs is being able to shell out the cash required to print larger quantities of your book.



As for my book, I was more than satisfied with lulu's services. Being able to pay for copies on an as needed basis and selling my books on lulu for a small fee, was perfect. My biggest expense was purchasing the book's isbn number through lulu. An isbn number is basically a unique tracking number used by retailers to identify your book. Beyond selling your book online or at select events, you can not sell your book in bookstores or to large online retailers like amazon.com without an isbn number.



Once I purchased my isbn number I was ready to take my work offline, which was truly an eye opening experience. Contrary to my initial dreams of having my book sell big numbers on amazon or generate huge sales in the store of my choice, promoting one's book as a self-published author is very different from what I expected. Most bookstores generally get their inventory through book distribution companies, which specialize in selling published books to stores. I quickly learned that in order to get my book on the shelf, for some stores, my book first had to be on the list of one of their distributors.

As luck would have it, though I was able to avoid the process of dealing with publishers, I was going to have to begin an almost identical process by mailing distributors, requesting that they distribute my work to their stores. In some cases, I did find a few stores that work with self-published authors, but they generally do so through consignment. This means they initially take a few copies of your book (say 5 for example) to see if they sell, and if they do sell, then the store will take more. When books are sold the store gets 60% and you get 40% of the sale. Ultimately this means that there is no initial big lump sum of money sent your way, you have to first pay for the printing, supply the stores with copies, and then wait for payment of profit when books are sold. If no books are sold, stores generally give the books back, which is why the chances of you finding a store that will pay for your books upfront is pretty slim.


A similar concept holds true as far as getting your book on sites like amazon.com. Getting listed is only half the story. Initially amazon.com will take only one or two copies of your book, and if you don't put in the effort to get that copy sold, they won't request more copies of your book. Again, the process starts with printing costs, and book sales, before the possibilities of profit. When I understood this very important piece of information, I came to realize the other, less talked about side of self publishing. It might seem like initially you aren't putting in much money, but you might find you ultimately have to spend more than anticipated to get your book in the right places to be sold.

 This is why it is very important to set aside a budget, however small for your publishing project factoring your printing costs, book price, and estimated return after all expenses are paid for. Last but not least you have to factor in the cost of marketing as well as how you plan on developing a marketing strategy. Of course this question is completely determined by your motivations for creating a book. Is it enough for you to see your book printed, sell a few copies, or do you have dreams of writing the next best seller?



If you do want to gain noticeable exposure for your book, understand that there are tons of ways to go about book promotion.

NOTE:  Get the "Get Out There kit" at http://www.e-junkie.com/pamperry

 It's up to you to do your research and find out what works best for you. Some authors enjoy the extra income and additional exposure than comes with doing speaking engagements or book signings. Some sellers opt to invest in vendor tables at book fairs, expos, and trade shows. I've met a number of self-published hustlers who hit the streets, get their vendor permits and sell their books on corners, with promotional t-shirts, postcards, or bookmarks in hand. While others promote strictly online by setting up blogs, sending out press releases, writing articles related to their work, advertising on sites that cater to their target audience,freely distributing short excerpts of their work, or developing a fan base on social network communities like myspace.

Whatever marketing strategy you use choose, remember that sales made by self-published authors are 50% up to them and 50% up to readers actually being interested in their work. As for my own work, I've probably tried each of the above mentioned strategies at least once. Trying to get a sense of the pros and cons of each, and which strategies work best for me not just as an author, but as a sales person and business woman. It goes without saying that as a self-published author, you will wear many hats and play many roles. In hindsight, I would have spent more time better understanding each of these roles before I started the publication of my book, but again it is because of my wrong choices that I learned so many right lessons along the way.



Of all my lessons the most important is this, whether you choose to self-publish by investing the capital to print in bulk,to self-publish through print on demand, or to use the more traditional route and submit to publishing companies, at some point you can not avoid having to pay. You are either paying for initial print costs and marketing fees or your paying as far as the time you put in to get your work noticed by publishers or readers using whatever marketing strategy available to you. On the flip side, choosing to find a publisher requires you to roll up your sleeves, develop a thick skin and be prepared to deal with waiting for responses, possible rejection letters, and learning to navigate through the world of publishing. And in the event that you do receive that acceptance letter that every aspiring writer dreams of, you can enjoy the benefits of book signings and signing bonuses without worrying about production costs or setting up promotion.


Just keep in mind that the more costs your publishers take care of, the smaller your percentage of the profit. One of the pluses of self-publishing is that you retain a larger percentage of the sale, but if you are getting 80% of 10 books sales vs. 15% of 1000 plus sales, which one is really better in the long run. Ultimately it all depends on three things from two perspectives, how much money, time, and skill (as a writer/sales person) are you looking to both put in and get out of your publishing experience.

If you can put in all those three things and then some with 200% of your best effort then perhaps self-publishing is the best solution for you. But if you are more interested in increasing your chances of getting those three things out of your experience, then you might want to focus more on getting into a publishing company that can help you promote your work on a bigger scale and give you access to professionals that can help you better perfect your craft.



As for me, I love being black and self-published. It's a lot of work, and sometimes I honestly do put in more money than I get out, but the thrill of turning the pages of my own books and making a sale at an event, well that is priceless. But just the same, I have presently decided to invest my time into more lucrative projects until I can either put more time/money into self-publishing, or research publishing companies that I would like to work with. But that is a another chapter, in my book, for another time. As far as your own work, there is no better time like the present to learn more about self publishing. Whether you sit on the floor in Barnes and Nobles, go to the library, signup for a seminar, or search the internet, it's important that you educate yourself about this process before investing your time and effort into getting your book published. Of course there is no process without having an actual book, so at least start working on an outline or your first draft as a means of personally committing to the task of seeing your work published.

Web Entrepreneur LaShanda Henry talks about how she self-published her books for FREE using Lulu.com and creates eBooks for Web Entrepreneurs, which is one way she makes money online. Get her Ultimate Online Kit

Click here to view more details for her awesome tool for authors & ministries! The Ultimate Money and Marketing Course 

I love her stuff!!! She inspires me. Success leaves clues. Click all the buttons....you are on click away from awesome.

So, are YOU Ready to go to the next level?  See http://www.prbootcamponline.eventbrite.com/ too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/!

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Chocolate Pages Interviews Demond Wilson, TV Star, Author, Minister


Demond Wilson is known to millions around the world from starring roles in programs such as, "Sanford & Son" (NBC), "Baby Im Back" (CBS), "The New Odd Couple" (ABC), and "Demond Wilson and Company" (BET Network).

Demond also starred in the long running TV series "Girlfriends" on cable TV. He's also starred in a number of Broadway, and off Broadway roles. His films include: "The Dealing" (Warner Bros.), "The Organization" (Sam Goldwyn Studios), "Full Moon High" (Indie), "Me & the Kid" (Indie) and "Hammerlock" (Indie).

Demond accepted the call on his life in 1983 when he preached the gospel of Jesus Christ around the world, and across America. He formed Restoration House of America in 1995, for the rehabilitation of former prison inmates across the racial divide. Demond has written eleven children stories and his book "The New Age Millennium" is in its second printing. He has written two screen plays titled "Nat Tyler Freedom Fighter", and "Bay City Blues," and has also written a sitcom titled "Hawkins for the Defense."

His latest book is titled "Second Banana: The Bitter Sweet Memoirs of the Sanford and Son Years." Demond is currently starring in a film titled "Faith Ties."

Hear him on the Chocolate Pages Show with Host Pam Perry.


Hear Demond Wilson on the Chocolate Pages Show with Pam Perry on Dec. 3 at 4 pm. EST -
Call in (646) 716-8098 or listen online at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/chocolatepages

Brand YOUR Best Life!

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Social Media Marketing: Making a Good First Impression with Internet Graphics


Post by Guest blogger and the creator of my "magazine cover" on the left - Dawn Papandrea-Khan. I love her work! Met her on twitter via Willie Crawford. Social media connections!  Plug into your social media connections too and work YOUR synergy energy. Thanks Dawn. Here's her article:

The most important aspect of any website or blog, when it comes to design elements, is whether or not you are making a good first impression. Catching the attention of your visitors is crucial.


If you have something that you would like to promote or sell, it is important to come up with creative ideas that will draw potential readers and buyers in. And since many of you, who have internet businesses, may not have the opportunity to meet in person with your clients, your best bet is to create and use eye catching internet graphics that will make a good first impression.

Internet graphics can be anything from a custom optin box graphic, website or blog header, an Ecover design, a button ad, or even a social networking icon. These graphics are seen all over the internet. They paint a picture for us about a particular website, blog, book, or even product.

Here are a few ideas that will help you incorporate internet
graphics that are sure to make a good first impression:

Eye Catching is Better than Boring – Catching the attention of your visitors, clients, or potential buyers is extremely important. If your biggest focus is to build your list and gain subscribers to your site or blog, then you definitely want your optin box area to pop on the page that people land on. You can do this by adding a colorful background or border. Or you can also hire a professional graphic artist to design something special that will work specifically with the design of your site. Here is an example:




As you can see, the optin box has been custom designed to match the site’s header incorporating the colors and logo. And when you enter the site, you immediately see the optin box right at the top.


Make your Purpose Clear – First time visitors may leave your site in a hurry if they cannot quickly and easily determine what the site is about. In just a few seconds, your site or internet graphics should communicate why your reader should spend their time or money there.

A website or blog header is a great example of an internet graphic that can be used to paint a picture of what you, your site, and your product is all about.


A header graphic should include the basic title and tagline as well as logo or images that would best represent what the site is all about. The header above is for a toddler nutrition site. As you can see they have all the necessary design elements which in turn makes the purpose very clear.


(sample from www.faithlogos.com)


Keep it Simple – Many times, people try to put too much into one website or graphic. This can be a turn off. The last thing you want is to turn someone away because your site or internet graphics are cluttered or busy. The layout and design should never distract from the content. There should be a flow to both. This is where a professional graphic designer comes in. They can help you decide what would work well visually. Keeping things simple will depend on elements such as wording, font style, colors, size, etc.



Add Visual Interest – Internet Graphics are all about visual interest and appeal. Just like a logo design, they can help a person recognize a website, company, or brand. Wording is important in a graphic, but sometimes the image will leave an even bigger impression. As humans we are extremely visual. Just think about all the times you have seen the yellow McDonalds arches or the Nike swoosh, we automatically know who it is. This is the same for graphics and logos that we see on the internet. It is important to tie in that visual appeal into your internet graphics.

For instance if you have a Ebook that you are working on that ties in with your website. Take the design elements from your site and bring that into the Ecover design. Here is an example:





So, as you can see, the header and the actual Ecover carry the logo image which tie it all together nicely. These types of things are very important in adding visual interest.

When a visitor stops by your site for the first time, what do they see? What grabs their attention? Do you have an eye catching header? Is your site clean and attractive? Is it engaging and informative? Is your purpose clear? The best way to find out the answers to these questions is by having a few people critique your site and your graphics. Be open to constructive criticism, because in the long run you want your site and your graphics to be the best that they can be.

Hiring a professional graphic designer can make a huge difference. Custom designed graphics can give you just the push you need to make your site, business, or product look it’s best. You would be surprised at how affordable it can be as well.

If you are interested in graphic design work, DPK Graphic Design would be happy to help you with your next project. They specialize in custom website & blog headers, ecovers, logos, twitter backgrounds, button ads, and so much more! Their prices are very reasonable and they work one on one with their clients to come up creative and inspiring designs. Be sure to check out their extensive design portfolios and do not hesitate to contact them today! http://dpk-graphicdesign.com/


See http://www.pamperryprcoach.com/ too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/!
Also see http://www.ivorycoastmedia.com/ for book trailers and video graphics!

Monday, November 16, 2009

7 Tips On Getting Media Interviews and Paid Speaking Engagements

Build a Platform - Get Paid to Speak





1.Write and promote a book.


The best way to validate yourself is to write a book about your expertise. If done professionally, you will find that this leads to tons of publicity and speaking opportunities. Even better, consider writing an e-book and giving it away for free. (see http://www.ebook2eriches.com/)



2. Start a blog.

Starting a blog is a great way to promote yourself. Use your blog to regularly express your opinions and insight. Soon enough, you will be highly respected for your intellect, and will be a prime candidate for radio talk shows. A free blog can be established at Blogger.com or WordPress.com



3. Write columns.

Regularly writing and distributing columns to the press wil get you front placement in hundreds of newspapers. If your columns are intriguing, people will remember you and you’ll become in –demand. Be sure to mention in your tagline that you are a public speaker, include your contact info and web site.



4. Get professional headshot.

Before someone hires you as a speaker or invites you onto their show, they will likely want to see a professional photo of you. Because they may not personally know you, this is their means of determining whether or not you are… well, professional. A good photographer will only charge you about $100 for this.

Here's a good sample of a head shot with some "personality" - Evangelist Ty Adams,
author of "Single, Saved and Having Sex"

5. Get listed on BlackExperts.com and Blackspeakers.com

These web sites are excellent directories to have your profile listed on. Hundreds on journalists and meeting planners use these sites to find possible candidates. The cost to be listed is just $200 -$250 a year, but you can make 5-10 times that from just one paid speaking engagement. Excellent SEO too!



6. Just ask.

Don’t wait for an invitation. If you are interested in speaking at a specific event, just ask the people in charge. You may not be paid the first time, but perhaps the second time around they’ll budget for you. See http://www.frasernet.com/



7. Stay in contact.

Knowing the right people can be very helpful in getting speaking engagements and media interviews. Attend networking events and establish new contacts. From time to time, follow up with them. Remind them of that you still exist.

Dante Lee is the founder of Diversity City Media, a multicultural marketing empire.
Visit his daily blog at www.DanteLee.com


FREE Teleseminar: Make $2,500.00 A Day As a Public Speaker http://www.speakertrainingteleseminar.com/?11291


 
PR Boot Camp starts Tuesday! http://www.prbootcamponline.eventbrite.com/
See www.PamPerryPRCoach.com
too and join www.ChocolatePagesNetwork.com & hear the Chocolate Pages Show.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

PR Boot Camp Graduate Grateful for the Training - Ready to Win at the Social Media Game!

A "Pam Perry PR Boot Camp Graduate" Tells about her Experience



Dear Pam,



You are truly a "Gem"..."Rare and Priceless!" You were absolutely called to do this! God tailor-made you to teach others how to most effectively market their books.

The information you shared will be of great benefit as I brand myself as a successful author. As I apply the tools you provided I feel confident that I have adequately been prepared to navigate social media to get massive online exposure, prepare my press kit, promotional PR plan and get speaking engagements.

The PR Boot Camp was fun, enlightening and everything I was hoping it would be. You really taught me how to define my target market and why that is so important.

You essentially gave complete campaign strategies to successfully sell books and so much more!

You are a gift to the Body of Christ. I expect great things! Thanks for your guidance and generosity of knowledge!

Love,



Cheryl-In-California.
Empowerment Coach and Successful Home Business Owner
Cheryl Green "C Money"
http://cmoneyraps.com/


Pam Perry PR BootCamp Graduate


See http://www.pamperryprcoach.com/
too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/


www.BrandingSuperStar.com for free Twitter Training

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Getting Media is Easy When You're a Nice Person...Kindness Matters!

Take the Time to be Kind - Live to GIVE.
Thanksgiving should be everyday...not just when you want to be in the media.





My friends, Stacye and Rev. Angelo Henderson of Radio One



Recently a friend said, “Thanks for remembering me.” Her business had just recently celebrated its one-year anniversary. I didn’t make the celebration but I did call to say, “Congratulations.” Taking the leap of faith to go into business is worth celebrating and to be around after a year calls for an ovation.


Another friend just emailed me because I had missed several events that he hosted. “Did I offend you?” the email read. Becoming installed as a pastor is a really big deal. Holding services requires support of friends.


But sometimes we are just so busy. We feel as if our feet can’t move fast enough – we need roller blades.


When is there enough time? Between working, taking care of the family, home maintenance and making sure your body, mind and spirit are nourished – I don’t have time to even retrieve my voice messages.  Now I must "tweet" once in a while the twitter followers who are following me! LOL! But voice mail AND the land line and the cell phone is tough.  Messages are in both places!


Maybe I should band the voice message system. Just go with Caller-ID. Might make my life simpler. Or I could leave a message like this:



“Hi, this is Pam. Isn’t life just a speedway? Don’t get upset, offended or take it personal if I don’t call you back. Just pray for me – I’m doing the best I can.”

Can you imagine what it is like for the media? Whew.


Life without friends is miserable. But not having time for friends is sadder still. No one should be this busy. Relationships are critical - networking is important. Keep the "social" in social networking.

Everyone wants to be remembered. Don’t forget to be kind – there’s always time for that. Thank the Lord you have friends – and take time to tell them “thank you” for being there. 

Thank the media this year during the holidays. Send them a card. (more about that later). Quit hawking them like they "owe" you and be kind to the media. They are nice people when you really get to know them. They're just busy like eveyone else - well, maybe a little bit more busier because they have constant PUBLIC deadlines. Tweet them a note at least or join their fan pages. :)

Thanks for joining mine!  I am grateful to have so much love...that's what's really important.


See http://www.pamperryprcoach.com/ too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/ and make some friends!

(get his book) :)

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

Personal Branding Step One: Buy YOU. Get your own Domain before someone else does.



You need to own yourname.com or a website that aligns with your  BRAND in some way. I have http://www.pamperrypr.com/ and http://www.pamperryprcoach.com/ (by the time I figured out I needed to my own domain/URL - someone else had it) Oh well, so I did the next best thing.


Tip: Depending on who you are, you MUST either start a website or blog or have someone else do set this for you.  



Those who blog will have a stronger presence than those who don’t because blogs rank higher in search engines and lend more to your expertise and interest areas over time. (Plus you get comments back)


My next blog will talk about Personal Branding Step 2 Social Media Profiles like twitter, facebook, etc. (but you need a blog first - and get yourname.com first)

BRAND YOURSELF LIKE A SUPER STAR!

http://www.brandingsuperstar.com/

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

10 Places to Promote Your Book with Articles

Many authors receive thousands of dollars worth of free publicity by publishing articles and excerpts from their book in other publications. Writing your book is only one step in the process of establishing yourself as an expert in your field.

Once your book is written, make a plan to promote it using the following venues, and begin formatting your writing to fit in the appropriate publication.


1. Books that relate to your subject can include quotes from your book as a reference. Keep an eye out for other authors writing books who will surely need reference material for their own writing. Also, books that include stories from multiple authors can be a great marketing tool to promote you as a writer as well as promoting your book.


2. Seminar handouts that you use when you are giving a presentation can be an excellent way to keep your name and your book in front of the reader. Provide the audience with interesting materials written by you to take home and read.



3. Trade publications will print articles relating to your book that are relevant to the specific industry. Research to find out which publications and journals will fit your topic best and submit your articles to the appropriate departments for considerations.



4. Magazines can provide mass exposure to a targeted audience for your book. Call the advertising department and ask for a copy of their editorial calendar. This free resource will allow you to see where your topic fits into their schedule. Once you see where your story fits, email or write the editor of that section to present your story idea. This must be done several months in advance to make sure there is plenty of time to include your story.




5. Local and national newspapers are always looking for story ideas. Tie your book in to current events or trends to make it newsworthy. Try to stay off the Book page, and try to get your book featured in the sections that are more widely read.


6. Community newspapers and journals usually come out on a weekly and monthly schedule, so an article reprint has the opportunity to be highly read. Make a list of all the smaller community newspapers within a 50 mile radius of your city. Submit your article to all potential sources.


7. Newsletters that are related to your book topic provide a reader base interested in learning more and will eagerly read your article. Find out what newsletters are mailed out to specific subscribers, as well as online newsletters that may consider reprinting your article or excerpt.


8. E-zines are growing in popularity online. Try to get your article reprinted inas many e-zines as possible. The more people who read your article, the more possible book sales you will make.(see mine: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Pam_Perry)


9. Your own website & blog is a necessary location to place articles for publishers of e-zines, newsletters, magazines, and newspapers to retrieve. Your own readers will enjoy learning more about your book topic and will visit your website more often if you add valuable information for them to read.


10. Other websites & blogs that allow you to post your articles and excerpts for their visitors are a great resource to spreading the message of your book.



Visit http://www.ministrymarketingsolutions.com/ today for more resources, tools, and coaching. Or get PR Coaching at http://www.prbootcamponline.eventbrite.com/






See http://www.pamperryonlinepr.com/ too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/!

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

10 Items to Include in Your Press Kit for Authors



Building your press kit takes time and planning. Your press kit will play a major role in getting free publicity for your book, so you want to make sure that it includes as much valuable information about you and your book as possible.


You want to make it as easy as possible for the media to feature you in a story. Once you have gathered your information, make sure to post it online for journalist to have access to it 24/7.


Your press kit will always be a work in progress as you are constantly updating your information to reflect the success that you are having with your book.



1. A standard press release announcing your book, giving information about you as a writer, and your availability for speaking engagements is a standard inclusion in your press kit. (see previous post on blog)



2. A press release that uses an interesting angle, topic, or media tie-in will make it easier for the media to write multiple stories about you.



3. A pitch letter giving the media all the different angles that could be featured from your book. Be as creative as possible, but make sure that you don’t stretch too thin. The angles that you provide have to directly tie-in to your book so that it can be a featured resource.



4. A list of possible interview questions will help the reporter put together an interview more quickly. You have taken a lot of the work out of their hands. Also, this helps you get the information out to the audience that you think is important in the promotion of your book. (contact Ministry Marketing Solutions for samples).



5. Include a media alert that refers to any recent news or events and how it is relevant to you and your book.



6. Your author biography is vital to your press kit. The media will want to know what authority you have for writing your book as well as any interesting facts about your past that could be used as a media angle.



7. Your professional photo should be a headshot and have good quality for scanning and reproduction. Make sure that it is updated at least every two years to reflect how you look at the current time.



8. Any copies of stories written about you relating to your book should be included so the journalist can see how others have reported on you. You should keep an ongoing file to keep all printed stories you have been featured in.



9. Your book tour schedule, which may be 5 local book signings, or 50 booksignings and speaking engagements around the country should be included to give the journalist an opportunity to attend and write about it in their story. The media loves photo opportunities, so plan as many events as possible.



10. One of your business cards which includes your contact information and possibly a photo of you and your book.


We offer a PR Coaching for this whole process at our website and at http://www.prcoachingonline.eventbrite.com/  that will help you get out there!


See http://www.pamperryprcoach.com/ too and join http://www.chocolatepagesnetwork.com/!

Monday, October 26, 2009

12 Ways to Get 10 Times the Value of Calls From A PR Coach






As I continue to do PR Coaching with authors - and they're seeing success, I find that PR is new to a lot of them - and so is coaching. So, I want to lay out some guidelines to help authors get the most from their coaching experience. 


1. Create the "Coaching Experience" - Think carefully about what you want to cover before the call begins. Most coaching calls are brief, 15-45 minutes, and coaching isn't cheap, so make every minute count. Ask yourself the question, "If I could cover just one thing on the call today and have it be worth the entire month's coaching fee, what would it be?" Another powerful part of creating the coaching experience means taking a few extra minutes before the call to mentally prepare yourself, rather than 'jamming' the call into an already overly full day. 

For example, when I book a call with my coach, Michele Lisenbury, I write down the time of the call in my calendar then I book in an additional 15 to 30 minutes for prep time. This way I assure myself that I will be ready to reap the benefits from Michele's wisdom. I may take a short walk during this prep time. I may look over my prep form, whatever. I make sure that I take the time to 'shift gears' from my usually busy day. It pays off in big dividends. 

2. Start With a Full Plate - Working off the question above, make a list, not of one thing, but of 5-10 things that would be important and valuable. Have more on your plate than you think you can possibly go over, then go for getting them all addressed. Of course, you don't want to be slipshod about it. Some matters take longer than others, so don't get upset if you only cover 1-2 items, just make sure they are important ones. 

3. First Things First: One way to see to it that your call is well worth the time and money, is to prioritize what you want to go over. Coaching calls are not the place to save the best for last. Put the most important item at the top of your list. That way, even if that's the only item that gets handled, the call will have been well worthwhile. 

4. Make Clear Requests - Once you have your list and the priority, write down what requests for coaching you have in one or two short, clear statements. For example, let's say that your number one item to cover is, "How can I make my business more profitable in the next 60 days?" That right there is a good start in requesting coaching. You might take it one step further by asking yourself, "How do I want my coach to support me in this?" Do you want to brainstorm some new ideas, run some ideas you already have by him/her, get some resource information from your coach, etc? 

5. Cut the Chat - Keep the "chitchat" to a minimum. In one sense I hate including this step because I love to "hang out" with my clients and I enjoy chatting with my own coach, but not if it takes up half the call. That's not really what I'm paying her for. Now, if that's your style and that's what you're paying your coach for, that's fine, just realize it may be a costlier friendship than it needs to be. Chat with friends who aren't charging you to talk to them. Get down to business with your coach. 

6.Turn the Tables - Turn the tables on your coach by asking questions and making requests. Two common and effective coaching techniques is to ask clients pithy questions that can uncover or reveal important insights or pearls of wisdom, and to make unreasonable requests of a client. Well, these same techniques can work well in reverse. I recently asked my coach what specific actions could she see me taking to develop my "capillary marketing system" and she sent me a ton of information on what to work on, all from one simple question. In this way, she's earning her keep, after the call as well as during the call. 

7. Front Load the Details - Handle as much of the preliminary or background information as possible before the call. I find one of the highest time drains is a client who feels the need to tell me all the history about something before we can get to work on what their request is. While some background is needed, most of it can be handled before the call.
One of the greatest value-leveraging devices my coach introduced to me and that I quickly incorporated into my practice is the Prep Form. I fill out the prep form a few hours prior to our call and e-mail it to her so she has the necessary background information before we ever say a word. In this way we start the call already running rather than warming up. Filling out the prep form also helps me become more focused. It's a great structure for planning the call. 

8. Debrief Yourself - A second form that is also valuable is the Review Form which is sent to your coach a day or so after the call. The review form helps me debrief the call by helping me realize what I got out of the call, as well as helping me see what we didn't cover that we can address in the next call. 

9. Be 100% Responsible - Take full responsibility for the coaching. This one is so important it probably should be higher in the listing. Don't hire a coach to do your work for you. Don't expect him or her to 'do coaching' on you. Coaching is a partnership that empowers you to make a difference in your own life! A healthy approach to coaching is to consider yourself 100% responsible for how the relationship goes and what value you get out of each call. At the other end of the spectrum, I recommend coaches take the same view, that they are 100% responsible for the relationship as well. In this way you have a 200% responsible partnership which is an awesome experience.
10. Know What Works and Tell Your Coach - Give regular feedback to your coach so he/she knows what works and what is of most value to you to do more of it. Also, let your coach know what's not working or has less value so it can be eliminated. Of course, at first you might not know what's of most value but it won't take long before you'll start to realize that some calls are very powerful whereas other calls were so-so. Begin to look at what was different about the two calls. 

11. Not Just Insights but Also Action - Remember this equation: Insight + Action = Breakthrough/Evolving/Growth. During your coaching call don't drop out the critical component of action. Once you've had an insight into your life, how can you apply it? As one of my first coaches used to say, "An insight without action is like a pinch in the ass; momentarily interesting but hardly life altering." 

12. Capture the Call - Record the call for listening to later. Sure, you can take notes but note taking is slow and can take your attention away from the conversation so make arrangements with your coach to record the conversations. The simplest way to get high quality recording is to buy a small adapter for hooking a tape recorder to your phone line. These are readily available at Radio Shack and other electronic stores. Remember, it's illegal to record a conversation without getting permission from the other person, so ask first. Not only will you capture those important nuggets of information but you can also use the recording to train yourself in making the next calls even more focused and powerful. 

by W. Bradford Swift, Guest Author

Visit www.PRBootCampOnline.eventbrite.com if you want PR Coaching. Or if you want the PR coaching in a kit: go to - www.e-junkie.com/pamperry. GET OUT THERE! 


See www.PamPerryPRCoach.com too and join www.ChocolatePagesNetwork.com!