| Many authors are reluctant to contact celebrities | | | | cameraman, a set designer, or a make-up artist from |
| asking for a testimonial for their book. Don't make the | | | | a Hollywood film? These 'unsung heroes' can be just |
| same mistake! | | | | as effective. |
| Endorsements are a powerful way to promote your | | | | 'Celebrities' have egos the same as everyone else. |
| writing and get your message out there. Readers are | | | | And if your book is getting publicity and media attention, |
| much more likely to listen to a public figure or | | | | this is also going to benefit them. |
| high-profile expert saying they can't put your book | | | | In this Internet age, it's never been easier to access |
| down. A little of their 'celebrity' magic tends to rub off | | | | celebrities and public figures. Many have their own |
| on you and you get to bask in their reflected glow. | | | | web-page, website or ezine. Many also have |
| I'm not saying that you should write to every celebrity | | | | Facebook and Twitter accounts. Even if they don't run |
| or expert you can think of. However, ask yourself if | | | | the accounts themselves, they have staff who will |
| there is a tie-in with your book, either obvious or | | | | pass on messages. Another way of contacting them |
| tenuous. Have they written a book on a similar subject | | | | is via their agents, publicists, or even their publishers. |
| to yours? Have they ever given a speech or an | | | | Make it easy for them by writing 5 of your own |
| interview on the same subject? Is there anything in | | | | testimonials. When you contact them, point out that |
| their professional or personal lives that ties in with your | | | | they can choose one of your templates if they wish. |
| subject matter? Have they endorsed similar books to | | | | Send them a short precis of your book and your |
| yours before? | | | | professional experience, rather than frightening them |
| Brainstorm a list of at least 100 celebrities to approach. | | | | off with a 200-page manuscript. |
| These can be people who are either nationally or | | | | Anything that saves them time or having to wade |
| internationally recognized. Obviously, A-listers are going | | | | through tons of material, may sway them in your |
| to be the most difficult. But there are plenty of B-listers, | | | | favour. |
| C-listers, and even Z-listers, who are approachable and | | | | Be prepared for lots of rejection, but be politely |
| amenable. | | | | persistent. You may have to approach 100, even 500, |
| Say you've written a book about film for example. | | | | celebrities before you get a "yes". But remember, you |
| Chances are you won't get an endorsement from | | | | only need ONE to make a massive difference to your |
| Angelina Jolie or Meryl Streep. But what about a | | | | book sales. |
