Boost Your Author Brand with Effective Interview Techniques
A Step-by-Step Guide for Authors to Ace Every Interview
Interviews are one of the most valuable opportunities an author can have to connect with readers, build brand recognition, and gain traction in a crowded book market. They provide a chance to delve into the heart of your work, reveal insights about your creative journey, and reach potential fans who may not yet know about your book. But to truly shine as an interview guest, preparation and professionalism are essential.
Whether you’re speaking on a podcast, a live-streamed video, or even at a literary event, the way you handle yourself in an interview can make a lasting impression. From refining your speaking style and managing technical aspects like lighting and sound to answering unexpected questions with poise, there are numerous factors that contribute to a memorable interview.
This guide will walk you through each step, from preparing answers to potential questions to ensuring your camera setup is on point, so you can approach every interview with confidence. By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to highlight your story, connect with your audience, and make your book stand out.
Step 1: Practice Makes Perfect
Preparation is essential for a successful interview. The more you practice, the more naturally you’ll be able to communicate your thoughts, respond to questions, and represent yourself and your book. Here’s how to approach your practice sessions to ensure you’re confident, polished, and ready for anything:
1. Start with a Mock Interview
Ask a Friend or Colleague for Help: Having someone you trust act as the interviewer can be a huge help. They can give you honest feedback on your answers, body language, and delivery.
Simulate the Real Environment: Practice in a quiet place where you can focus, and if possible, use the same equipment you’ll use for the actual interview. This will help you get comfortable with the setup and reduce technical surprises.
Record Yourself: Recording your mock interview lets you watch yourself from the viewer’s perspective. Look for areas where you could improve, like filler words, stuttering, or unclear phrasing. Aim for clear, concise answers that stay engaging.
2. Prepare Your Core Messages
Define Key Takeaways: Think about the main points you want to convey. What aspects of your book are you most proud of? What inspired you to write it? These points can act as your “north star” during the interview, helping you stay focused.
Create a List of Talking Points: Write down key themes, topics, or unique insights about your book. Think about what will resonate most with your audience—whether it’s the themes, your writing journey, or specific characters and scenes. Make sure these points are memorable and can be easily woven into your answers.
3. Anticipate Common Questions
Consider Standard Questions for Authors: Practice answering common questions like “What inspired your book?” “Who is your target audience?” or “What do you hope readers take away from your story?” These will often come up, so being ready with natural, thoughtful answers can set you up for success.
Develop a Flexible Mindset for Unexpected Questions: Interviewers may ask questions that surprise you. A great way to prepare for this is to practice pivoting back to your key messages. If an unexpected question comes your way, take a breath, think, and answer as close to your main message as possible.
4. Practice Reducing Filler Words
Identify Your Fillers: Everyone has a few words they lean on—“um,” “uh,” “like,” or “you know.” These fillers can distract from your message, so listen to yourself in recordings and see which ones you use most.
Pause to Think Before Responding: Instead of filling gaps with “uh,” try pausing briefly before you speak. A well-placed pause can make your responses feel deliberate and composed.
Use Simple Exercises: Practice answering questions while actively focusing on avoiding filler words. Over time, this will help train your mind to naturally skip these distracting words, making your delivery sound smoother.
5. Practice Speaking About Your Book without emphasizing time
Avoid Overly Timely References: Instead of saying, “This book comes out tomorrow,” mention that it’s a new release and emphasize that your target audience will love it.
Stick to Lasting Ideas: Focus on what’s meaningful and impactful about your work in a timeless way. Think about what makes your story unique and worth reading years from now.
6. Practice Empathy and Audience Connection
Consider Your Audience’s Perspective: Think about what your potential readers might want to know about you and your book. Tailoring your answers with empathy helps make your responses relatable and engaging.
Practice Telling Your Story with Enthusiasm: Authenticity and enthusiasm are contagious. Readers love hearing from authors who are genuinely passionate about their work, so practice conveying your excitement naturally.
Regular practice will allow you to go into any interview feeling confident and prepared. Every bit of rehearsal will refine your responses, helping you deliver a smooth, impactful performance that will leave a lasting impression on your listeners.
Step 2: Research the Interview Platform and Host
Understanding the platform where you’ll be interviewed and the background of your interviewer is crucial. This preparation not only helps you tailor your responses to fit the tone of the show but also demonstrates your genuine interest in the host and their audience. Here’s how to dive into this research effectively:
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Platform’s Audience
Review Previous Episodes or Articles: Listen to or read past interviews on the platform to understand its style, typical audience, and recurring topics. Are the interviews casual, informative, or heavily focused on specific genres or themes?
Identify the Audience Demographics: Take note of the audience’s general age, interests, and expectations. Are they literary enthusiasts, genre-specific readers, or people interested in broader cultural discussions? Tailor your language and topics to align with what will resonate with them.
Match Your Tone to the Platform: If the platform is known for serious, in-depth discussions, a formal tone might be appropriate. If it’s more light-hearted and conversational, feel free to bring warmth and humor to your responses. Matching your tone makes you feel like a natural fit for the interview.
2. Understand the Host’s Style and Background
Research the Host’s Work: Look into their other work, social media presence, or even their published writing if available. Understanding their background and interests can help you anticipate the questions they might ask and gauge which aspects of your book they’ll likely highlight.
Note Their Interview Style: Is the host known for asking provocative questions or keeping the conversation friendly and open-ended? Being aware of their style helps you prepare mentally. You’ll know whether to prepare concise, pointed answers or stories that flow more naturally.
Prepare to Connect on Shared Interests: If you discover any shared interests—like a mutual appreciation for a particular genre, theme, or cultural topic—mentioning these can create an instant rapport with the host. Just be mindful to keep these connections genuine and subtle.
3. Review the Host’s Most Common Questions
Identify Themes or Patterns: Many hosts have go-to questions they ask all guests. Listen for recurring questions in recent interviews, as they can offer insight into the themes the host finds valuable or intriguing. Preparing answers for these frequently asked questions can give you a head start.
Anticipate Unique Questions They May Ask You: If your book or personal background touches on areas the host hasn’t previously covered, they may ask questions to explore these. Think about what makes your story unique in the context of the platform’s usual content.
4. Tailor Your Key Messages to Fit the Platform’s Interests
Connect Your Book’s Themes to the Platform’s Focus: Think about how your book’s content aligns with the platform’s areas of interest. For instance, if the platform often discusses self-improvement, highlight the personal growth of your characters or the insights you hope readers take away from your work.
Showcase Relevance to the Host’s Audience: Craft responses that showcase why your book is relevant to the platform’s listeners. This helps make the interview feel like a natural fit and increases the chances that listeners will see your work as appealing.
5. Prepare Customized Responses and Insights
Mention Past Episodes or Interviews: A great way to show you’ve done your homework is by referencing past episodes, particularly if there’s an element that overlaps with your work. For example, if a recent guest discussed a theme that your book also covers, briefly mention it as a segue into your own perspective.
Share Unique Insights Aligned with the Host’s Interests: If you know the host has a strong interest in a specific genre or topic, see if you can weave in a relevant insight about your own work or literary journey that will appeal to their preferences.
6. Prepare a Few Tailored Questions for the Host
Engage the Host Directly: Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates that you’re actively engaged in the conversation. For example, you might ask the host’s opinion on a particular trend in your genre, or get their perspective on an element related to your book’s themes.
Keep Questions Open and Light: Avoid questions that may come across as overly specific or potentially controversial. Aim to show your curiosity in a respectful way that invites a light-hearted or insightful response from the host.
7. Plan a Personal Thank-You for the Host and Platform
Prepare a Personalized Thank-You: Consider preparing a thoughtful thank-you message that references the platform’s role in supporting authors or sharing unique stories. After the interview, expressing your appreciation in a specific and genuine way makes a lasting impression.
Mention the Platform in Future Promotions: When sharing your interview with your audience, be sure to highlight the platform and thank the host publicly. This not only strengthens your relationship with the platform but also shows your professionalism.
Thorough research is key to making a strong impression. By understanding the host’s and platform’s unique interests, you can craft responses that feel genuine and engaging, increasing the likelihood that listeners will connect with you and your book.
Step 3: Test and Prepare Your Technical Setup
A polished technical setup can make a world of difference in how you’re perceived as a guest. Clear audio, good lighting, and professional camera quality convey professionalism and show respect for the interview and audience. By testing your equipment and making a few key adjustments, you can enhance the viewer’s experience and let your words shine.
1. Set Up High-Quality Audio
Invest in a Reliable Microphone: Audio quality is often even more critical than video. Background noise or muffled sound can be distracting and detract from the impact of your message. A USB microphone or even high-quality earbuds with a built-in mic can make a significant difference.
Test for Clarity and Volume: Do a sound check before the interview, recording yourself to hear how you sound. Ensure that your voice is clear and doesn’t fade out or peak. Position the microphone about 6 to 12 inches from your mouth to capture the best sound.
Eliminate Background Noise: Find a quiet room, close windows, and use soft furnishings to dampen noise. If you’re in a noisy environment, a headset with noise-canceling features can help block out ambient sounds.
2. Optimize Your Lighting
Use Natural Lighting When Possible: Position yourself facing a natural light source, such as a window, to ensure even, soft lighting. Avoid having bright light sources behind you, as this can cast shadows and make it difficult for viewers to see your face.
Use Artificial Lighting to Supplement: If natural light isn’t available or it’s inconsistent, invest in a ring light or two adjustable LED lights. Place one on either side of your screen to create an even, flattering light that reduces shadows and highlights your facial expressions.
Avoid Overhead Lighting: Overhead lighting can cast harsh shadows and make you look tired or washed out. Try to position lights at eye level and avoid yellow or dim lighting that may lower the quality of your image.
3. Check and Adjust Your Camera
Use a Quality Camera: If possible, use an external webcam for better quality than most built-in laptop cameras can provide. HD webcams are affordable and give a clearer, more professional appearance.
Position the Camera at Eye Level: Keep your camera at eye level to avoid awkward angles, which can be distracting. If necessary, elevate your laptop or webcam using a stack of books or a stand to align it with your line of sight.
Frame Yourself Correctly: Sit a comfortable distance from the camera, with your head and shoulders filling the frame. Position yourself so there’s a bit of space above your head and you’re centered in the shot. Avoid sitting too close or too far away, as this can make your appearance feel unbalanced or awkward.
4. Ensure Stable Internet Connection
Choose a Reliable Internet Source: A strong, stable internet connection is essential for smooth video and audio transmission. If possible, use an Ethernet cable connected directly to your router for a more stable connection than Wi-Fi.
Test Your Connection Speed: Before the interview, test your internet speed to ensure it meets the platform’s requirements. Streaming video typically requires a minimum of 3-4 Mbps upload speed; for high-quality video, aim for 10 Mbps or higher.
Close Background Applications: Close any unnecessary applications or browser tabs that could drain your internet bandwidth and slow down your connection.
5. Conduct a Full System Check
Do a Practice Run with Your Setup: Using the exact lighting, audio, and camera setup, record a brief test video to see how it looks and sounds. This gives you a clear idea of how you’ll appear on screen and helps identify any adjustments needed.
Test with the Platform Software: Some platforms, like Zoom or Skype, have specific quirks. Open the software or app you’ll be using and check that everything connects and displays correctly. Run a sound and video test to confirm all components are working smoothly.
Adjust as Needed: After the test, make any final adjustments based on how you look and sound in the recording. A few tweaks, like adjusting lighting or camera angles, can make a big difference.
6. Keep Essentials Nearby
Have Water on Hand: Speaking can be surprisingly tiring, and having water nearby will help keep your voice clear. Just be sure to drink quietly and off-camera if you need a quick sip.
Bring Notes or Key Points: Have a notepad or a digital document nearby with key points you want to cover. Avoid reading verbatim, but having a few reminders can be helpful to keep your thoughts organized.
Prepare Contact Information for After the Interview: If the interview format includes a post-recording discussion, have your contact information ready to share in case the host requests it.
Setting up your technical environment thoughtfully creates a more enjoyable experience for both you and your audience. When everything is clear, crisp, and professional, your personality and message can shine through without technical distractions.
Step 4: Prepare for Any Question
In an interview, being prepared for any question is key to showcasing your expertise, building rapport with the host, and keeping the audience engaged. From in-depth questions about your book to spontaneous curveballs, mastering a range of responses will help you handle even the most unexpected moments gracefully. Preparing in advance gives you the confidence to answer clearly, without getting flustered or sidetracked.
1. Anticipate Commonly Asked Questions
Author Background and Motivation: Interviewers will often ask why you wrote the book, your inspiration, or your journey as an author. Reflect on your personal story, significant moments, and influences to craft a compelling answer. Share authentic details that connect with the audience but keep it concise and relevant.
Key Themes and Messages: Prepare to discuss your book’s themes, main takeaways, and any deeper messages you wish to convey. Think about how these themes might resonate with readers and prepare to explain them in accessible, relatable terms.
Plot and Character Details (for Fiction): Be ready to discuss your plot and main characters without giving away spoilers. Consider how to describe your characters’ personalities and challenges, as well as what makes the story unique. Focus on creating curiosity rather than divulging too much.
Research and Real-World Relevance (for Non-Fiction): If you’ve written a non-fiction book, the interviewer may ask about your research process or real-world examples. Prepare a few compelling anecdotes or research insights that illustrate the practical relevance of your topic.
2. Rehearse Responses to Challenging Questions
Handling Controversial Topics: If your book touches on sensitive or divisive topics, think carefully about how you’ll discuss these. Maintain a balanced, respectful tone, and practice responses that show empathy and depth without alienating your audience.
Addressing Criticism or Weaknesses: Interviewers sometimes ask about challenges you faced while writing or areas where your book might draw criticism. Prepare responses that acknowledge challenges openly and show how you addressed them. Avoid getting defensive, and instead focus on your growth through the process.
Responding to Broad or Unexpected Questions: Some questions might catch you off guard, like “What’s one thing you’d change in the world?” or “Who are your heroes?” Think about broader topics in advance to avoid filler words like “um” and “uh.” Your answer doesn’t have to be perfect—just authentic.
3. Formulate Key Talking Points
Memorable Phrases and Concepts: Develop a few memorable phrases or “sound bites” that summarize key aspects of your book. These help listeners remember your message and create a stronger impression. Think of these as concise, catchy ways to express the essence of your book and themes.
Core Values and Goals: Outline the values you want your audience to associate with your work. Think about what makes your book unique, and use these as guiding principles to ensure your answers stay aligned with your vision.
Examples or Anecdotes: Stories are more engaging than abstract ideas. Have a few short anecdotes ready—personal or related to your book’s content—that illustrate your points and make your answers more relatable. Briefly rehearsing these anecdotes in advance will help you tell them smoothly.
4. Practice Your Delivery to Minimize Filler Words
Speak Slowly and Pause: Filler words like “um,” “like,” and “you know” tend to slip in when we’re rushing or unsure. Practice speaking slowly and incorporating natural pauses instead. A calm, deliberate pace will help you appear confident and composed.
Use Transitional Phrases: If you need time to think, use transitional phrases like “That’s a great question” or “Let me think about that for a moment.” These phrases help fill silence without feeling forced and give you a second to collect your thoughts.
Pause Before Answering: Taking a brief pause before you answer allows you to organize your response and reduces the chance of using fillers. It also shows that you’re giving thoughtful consideration to the question.
5. Keep Your Answers Focused and Concise
Stay on Topic: Avoid rambling by sticking to the question asked. If you find yourself veering off-topic, bring your answer back to your main point. This helps keep the conversation engaging and allows the interviewer to move smoothly through their questions.
Know When to Stop: Overly lengthy answers can lose the audience’s interest. End your responses with a concise wrap-up phrase, like “That’s why I’m passionate about this subject,” to cue the interviewer and audience that your thought is complete.
Practice Staying on Track: Rehearse with a friend or in front of a mirror, keeping each answer to about 30-60 seconds. This will help you avoid over-explaining and keep your responses sharp and to the point.
6. Remember to Be Yourself
Show Your Personality: Interviews aren’t just about facts—they’re a chance for the audience to get to know you. Don’t be afraid to show a bit of humor, vulnerability, or enthusiasm. Audiences connect more with a real person than a rehearsed speaker.
Let Passion Shine Through: Speak with genuine passion about your work. Enthusiasm is contagious, and when you truly care about your book and its impact, the audience will be more likely to connect with you and remember your message.
By preparing for a range of questions and practicing your delivery, you’ll be ready to handle anything that comes your way with confidence.
Step 5: Eliminate Filler Words and Improve Fluency
Using filler words like “um,” “uh,” “like,” and “you know” can make you seem less confident and distract from your message. Although they’re common in everyday speech, eliminating these verbal pauses helps you come across as more polished, authoritative, and prepared. Fluency is a key part of being an effective interviewee; it lets your audience focus fully on your insights and stories.
1. Understand Why Fillers Happen
Nervousness and Lack of Preparation: Filler words often sneak in when we feel uncertain or unprepared. When you’re nervous, your brain sometimes uses fillers to buy time while you think. Practicing your responses can give you the confidence to speak without relying on these verbal crutches.
Thinking While Speaking: We use filler words when we’re processing our thoughts mid-sentence. Becoming more comfortable with brief pauses instead of fillers can help you collect your thoughts without breaking the flow of conversation.
2. Practice with Mindful Pauses
Use Silence Strategically: Replace fillers with brief pauses. It’s okay to pause for a second to gather your thoughts—listeners are more likely to perceive a brief silence as you being thoughtful, not unsure. Practicing these pauses helps you become comfortable with moments of silence.
Slow Down Your Pace: Speaking too quickly can make it harder to avoid fillers because your brain is constantly trying to catch up with your words. Slow down slightly and allow natural pauses to become a part of your delivery, making your answers more deliberate and engaging.
3. Prepare and Memorize Key Phrases
Create Anchor Phrases: Think of key phrases or “anchors” that summarize important points, like “The central message of my book is…” or “One thing I’m really passionate about…” Memorizing a few anchors will help you feel grounded, reducing the urge to use fillers while you think of what to say next.
Break Down Your Responses: Structuring your answers with a beginning, middle, and end makes it easier to stay on track and avoid fillers. Before each interview, think about how to structure your main points for easy recall. Practice makes it easier to deliver your answers fluidly without unnecessary pauses.
4. Engage in Focused Practice Sessions
Record Yourself: Record yourself answering common questions, then listen for filler words and assess your fluency. This process can be eye-opening, as you’ll become more aware of your verbal habits and can work on reducing filler words in subsequent practice sessions.
Use Tools to Help Track Progress: Some apps and software programs detect filler words and track them over time. These tools provide helpful feedback as you work to reduce unnecessary verbal pauses. Additionally, practicing with these tools can help you feel more comfortable speaking fluidly in a live setting.
5. Replace Fillers with Transitional Phrases
Use Transitions to Buy Time: When you need a moment to gather your thoughts, replace fillers with phrases like “Let me think about that” or “That’s an interesting question.” These transitions serve as natural placeholders, keeping your response flowing without distracting the audience.
Avoid Common Crutch Words: Words like “actually,” “so,” and “basically” often sneak in as fillers. When you feel yourself about to use these words, pause briefly instead. Replacing these with silence or purposeful transitions creates a more professional impression.
6. Work on Clear Enunciation and Breathing
Practice Speaking Clearly: Articulating your words fully and speaking at a measured pace can help reduce fillers. When you speak clearly, you give yourself extra time to think between phrases, helping prevent filler words.
Breathe to Maintain Control: Nervousness can lead to shallow breathing, which disrupts your speaking rhythm and increases filler words. Take slow, steady breaths to keep yourself calm and in control. Controlled breathing helps you maintain a steady pace and stay present.
7. Seek Constructive Feedback
Practice with a Trusted Friend or Coach: Practicing in front of someone who can provide honest feedback is invaluable. A friend, colleague, or coach can point out fillers you may not realize you’re using. For more focused improvement, consider a coaching session with Tia, founder of Order of the Bookish, to gain tailored guidance on enhancing your fluency.
Accept That Perfect Fluency Isn’t Always Necessary: Remember, your audience is more interested in your ideas than perfect speech. Aim to reduce fillers, but don’t let the occasional “um” or “uh” derail your confidence. Even the most seasoned speakers slip up occasionally.
8. End with a Confidence Boost
Reframe Your Nerves as Excitement: Approaching each interview with a positive mindset will help you feel more comfortable and reduce filler words. When you view interviews as opportunities rather than challenges, it becomes easier to maintain fluency.
Visualize a Successful Outcome: Picture yourself confidently delivering smooth, impactful answers without fillers. Visualization is a powerful tool that can set the stage for a more polished performance.
By reducing filler words and improving your fluency, you’ll not only sound more professional but also feel more confident during interviews.
Step 6: Connect with Your Interviewer and Build Rapport
Connecting with your interviewer is key to a successful interview experience. Establishing rapport makes the conversation feel more natural, which benefits both you and the audience, as it fosters a genuine and engaging discussion. Building a positive relationship with the interviewer also increases the chances of being remembered and invited back for future interviews.
1. Research the Interviewer’s Background and Interests
Understand Their Style: Familiarize yourself with the interviewer’s style by watching or listening to past interviews. Do they prefer a conversational approach, or are they more formal? Knowing their style can help you adapt your tone and responses to align with theirs, creating a smoother flow.
Identify Shared Interests: Look for common interests, hobbies, or professional experiences. These shared points can serve as conversation openers or subtle mentions throughout the interview, adding depth to your interaction. For instance, if you find out they love historical fiction and your book has elements of history, mentioning it can make the interview more engaging for them.
2. Engage in Light Conversation Before Going Live
Break the Ice: Often, you’ll have a few minutes to chat before the interview officially begins. Use this time to establish rapport by asking the interviewer how their day is going or mentioning a recent interview of theirs you enjoyed. Simple gestures like these help make a strong first impression and set a friendly tone.
Show Interest in Their Work: People appreciate genuine interest in their work, so acknowledging the interviewer’s role or work can help foster a mutual respect. You could say, “I really enjoyed the way you explored [topic] in your last interview. It made me think about…” This shows you value their work, which encourages them to be more invested in your interview.
3. Be Attentive and Engaged During the Interview
Listen Actively: Truly listen to the questions being asked. Rather than thinking of your answer immediately, focus on the interviewer’s words. This shows respect and prevents misunderstandings. Taking a moment to respond thoughtfully makes your answers feel genuine and tailored.
Maintain Eye Contact (if on Video): On video calls, looking at the camera rather than your screen can simulate eye contact, making you appear engaged. If it’s an audio-only interview, convey attentiveness through your tone, pace, and by responding to the interviewer’s prompts directly.
React to Their Input: If the interviewer adds their own thoughts or relates a story, acknowledge it. Smile, shake your head, laugh. Small phrases like “That’s a great point,” or “I hadn’t thought of it that way, thanks for sharing” show that you’re engaged in the conversation, not just waiting for your turn to speak.
4. Answer Questions with the Interviewer and Audience in Mind
Keep Their Perspective in Focus: Think about the kind of information or tone that might be meaningful to both the interviewer and their audience. If you’re on a show that appeals to readers, balance personal anecdotes with insights into your writing process and story inspiration. On industry-focused platforms, you might include more technical or business-related elements.
Be Concise and Clear: Keep answers informative but concise. Long-winded responses can disrupt the flow and leave less time for follow-up questions. Delivering concise yet impactful answers allows you to cover more ground and makes for a dynamic interview.
5. Ask Relevant Questions to Keep the Conversation Flowing
Make It a Two-Way Dialogue: When appropriate, ask the interviewer questions that reflect genuine curiosity. If they bring up an intriguing point, ask them to elaborate or share their thoughts. For example, you might say, “How do you see this topic evolving in the future?” This not only builds rapport but also shows that you’re invested in a collaborative conversation, which viewers will love to see.
Show Interest in Their Perspective: If your interviewer has a unique perspective or role, ask for their insights. Phrasing questions like, “From your experience, what have you noticed about…?” acknowledges their expertise, making them feel valued and engaged in a dialogue.
6. Follow Up After the Interview
Send a Thank-You Note: A brief, personalized thank-you email within a day or two of the interview goes a long way in reinforcing a positive impression. Mention something specific you appreciated about the conversation to make your message genuine. For example, “I really enjoyed discussing [topic] with you, and I loved your perspective on [point they made].”
Share the Interview: Once the interview is published, share it on your social media or website and tag the interviewer or their platform. Publicly acknowledging the interview helps show appreciation, and it also broadens the audience reach—something most interviewers will appreciate.
7. Stay Connected for Future Opportunities
Engage on Social Media: Follow the interviewer on social media and engage with their content from time to time. Occasional likes, comments, or shares can help you stay on their radar without overwhelming them.
Reach Out Periodically: Don’t hesitate to follow up in the future, especially if you have new projects or updates that may interest them. Briefly sharing relevant news could lead to a new interview or collaboration down the line.
Establishing rapport with your interviewer helps create a dynamic, engaging conversation that’s enjoyable for you, the interviewer, and your audience. Not only does a positive connection make the current interview more impactful, but it also opens doors to future opportunities.
Step 7: Promote Your Book Authentically and Memorably
Promoting your book during an interview is crucial to capturing the audience’s interest without sounding overly sales-focused. The goal is to inspire curiosity, engage listeners or viewers, and position your book as a natural extension of your passion and expertise. When done authentically, you’ll leave a memorable impression that resonates with both the interviewer and the audience.
1. Focus on Storytelling Over Selling
Share Personal Experiences: Rather than reciting a synopsis, focus on why you wrote the book and what it means to you. Sharing the inspiration or backstory behind your book’s theme or characters offers an emotional connection, making the promotion feel genuine and relatable. For example, you might say, “I wanted to explore [theme] because it’s something I personally struggled with, and I thought readers could relate.”
Highlight the Book’s Unique Message or Insight: Rather than listing all of the book’s details, choose a few key insights or messages that stand out. For instance, if your book sheds light on a specific topic or explores an unusual angle, discuss this with passion. “What I wanted readers to take away from this book is…” conveys a meaningful message without sounding like a sales pitch.
2. Incorporate Anecdotes to Illustrate Key Points
Use Examples from the Book: If you’re discussing a theme or idea, use anecdotes or brief examples from your book to illustrate these points. For instance, “One of my characters goes through [experience] to show how…” gives the audience a taste of the book’s essence, sparking curiosity.
Relate Themes to Everyday Life: Try connecting the book’s themes to common experiences or issues that the audience might find relatable. For example, “This book explores the complexity of relationships, which I think we can all relate to…” makes the book feel relevant to listeners’ lives.
3. Be Concise and Intentional When Mentioning the Book
Weave Mentions Seamlessly: Avoid repeatedly mentioning your book in every response; instead, weave references naturally as the conversation flows. For example, if you’re asked about your writing journey, you might say, “While working on my book, I discovered how challenging it is to…” This approach subtly keeps the book in the conversation without forcing it.
Choose Words That Highlight the Book’s Appeal: Use words that emphasize what makes the book unique, memorable, or engaging. For instance, rather than saying, “It’s a story about [plot],” try, “It’s an exploration of [theme] that challenges readers to think differently about…”
4. Speak to Your Ideal Reader
Know Who Your Book Appeals To: During the interview, subtly describe the type of reader who would enjoy or benefit from your book. This helps listeners self-identify as your target audience. For instance, “I think readers who enjoy stories about resilience and personal growth would really connect with this book.”
Address Readers’ Potential Questions: Think about questions readers might have about your book’s content or message, and address these during the conversation. This helps clarify your book’s value, making it more appealing. For example, “People often ask me if this book has a happy ending, and while I won’t give spoilers, I will say it offers hope.”
5. Create Memorable Phrases or “Hooks”
Use a Catchy Line or Phrase: Develop a phrase that captures your book’s essence and makes it easy for listeners to remember. Think of it as a tagline for your story. For example, “It’s a love story set against the chaos of revolution,” is a simple yet memorable line that sticks with people.
Emphasize Your Book’s Takeaway: Think about one main takeaway or message you want readers to remember about your book. You might say, “This book is ultimately about finding strength in unexpected places,” which leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
6. Stay Genuine and Avoid Overselling
Let Your Enthusiasm Shine Through: Authentic enthusiasm is contagious. Show genuine excitement and pride in your work, as this will naturally make listeners curious. Avoid forced enthusiasm or “hard sells,” as these can feel insincere.
Accept That Not Every Listener Will Be Your Audience: Understand that not everyone listening will be the perfect match for your book—and that’s okay. Instead, focus on making a connection with those who are likely to enjoy your work.
7. Encourage the Audience to Take Action Naturally
Provide a Call to Action That Feels Inviting: When it’s time to mention where readers can find your book, do so in a welcoming way. For example, you might say, “If this sounds like a story you’d enjoy, I’d love for you to check it out. You can find it on [platform] or at your local bookstore.”
Mention Any Upcoming Events or Resources: If you have an upcoming reading, event, or downloadable resource, mention it as an added way for the audience to engage with your work. “I’ll be hosting a book discussion on [date], and I’d love for you to join!”
8. Encourage Follow-Up with a Professional Touch
Offer a Way to Connect Further: At the end of the interview, you can mention where listeners can stay updated on your journey or reach out if they have questions. Mention your social media handle, website, or newsletter if applicable.
Emphasize Long-Term Impact: Close with a reminder of your book’s enduring message or value. “This story is one that I believe will stay with readers long after the last page,” leaves a thoughtful and lasting impression.
Bonus: One-on-One Coaching for Authors – Perfect Your Interview Skills with Expert Guidance
Ready to take your author platform to the next level? Book a one-on-one coaching session with Tia, a seasoned self-publishing author, branding, and marketing expert.
Tia will provide personalized guidance to help you:
- Master the art of the interview: Learn how to captivate audiences, deliver compelling soundbites, and leave a lasting impression.
- Craft your author brand story: Develop a strong personal brand that resonates with your target audience.
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- Leverage social media: Utilize platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to build a loyal following.
With Tia’s expert coaching, you’ll gain the confidence and skills needed to succeed as an author. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your career and achieve your publishing goals
HOW TO CONNECT WITH INTERVIEW HOSTS
Connecting with interview hosts is a crucial step in securing valuable media opportunities. Here are some effective strategies to help you reach out:
1. Identify Your Target Hosts:
Research: Explore podcasts, radio shows, and TV programs that align with your book’s genre, theme, or target audience.
Analyze Their Content: Familiarize yourself with their past interviews, topics, and audience demographics.
2. Craft a Personalized Pitch:
Highlight Relevance: Clearly explain how your book’s content aligns with the host’s interests and audience.
Offer Unique Insights: Highlight specific angles or stories that would make for a compelling interview.
Keep it Concise: A brief and impactful pitch is more likely to capture attention.
3. Leverage Your Network:
Reach Out to Mutual Connections: Ask friends, colleagues, or other authors if they know any potential hosts.
Join Author Communities: Participate in online forums and groups to connect with other authors and industry professionals.
4. Direct Outreach:
Email: Send a professional email introducing yourself and your book, and include a brief pitch.
Social Media: Engage with hosts on platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. Share their content, comment on their posts, and send direct messages.
5. Consider a Media Kit:
Prepare a Media Kit: This document should include a high-resolution author photo, a brief bio, a book summary, and media coverage.
Share Your Kit: Send your media kit to potential hosts to provide them with all the necessary information.
Remember, persistence is key. Don’t be discouraged by initial rejections. Keep reaching out, and you’ll eventually find the right opportunities to showcase your book and expertise.
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