Erica Thomas
Maximizing Your Authorship: The Power of Hiring a Manager and Publicist
Updated: Nov 13

Aspiring authors often enter the world of writing with a singular focus: to create and share their stories with the world. However, once their manuscripts become published books, the challenges of managing their brand, marketing their work, and navigating the complex terrain of ebook distribution can be overwhelming. That's where the services of a manager and publicist come into play, offering invaluable expertise and freeing authors to focus on their true passion—writing. Additionally, being aware of ebook platforms beyond Amazon, such as Smashwords, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Apple Books, can significantly impact an author's brand awareness and sales.
The Power of a Literary Manager:
Hiring a literary manager is akin to having a trusted ally in the publishing world. These professionals possess extensive knowledge of the industry, including market trends, distribution channels, and contractual intricacies. Here are some compelling reasons why authors should consider working with a literary manager:
Strategic Planning: Literary managers can help authors devise long-term strategies for their careers, including book releases, marketing campaigns, and brand development.
Negotiation Expertise: When it comes to contract negotiations with publishers, literary agents can secure favorable terms, protect an author's rights, and ensure fair compensation.
Time and Stress Management: Authors can devote more time to their writing while their managers handle administrative tasks, allowing them to maintain focus and creativity.
Industry Insights: Managers have insider knowledge of the publishing world, including emerging trends and opportunities for authors to expand their reach.
Network Building: Managers can connect authors with industry professionals, including publishers, editors, and fellow authors, fostering valuable relationships.
The Influence of a Publicist:
Publicists are the architects of an author's public image. They play a pivotal role in crafting and promoting an author's brand, ensuring that their work reaches the right audience. Here's why having a publicist is advantageous:
Media Relations: Publicists have established relationships with journalists, bloggers, and influencers, making it easier to secure media coverage and reviews for an author's work.
Strategic Promotion: Publicists design comprehensive marketing and publicity plans tailored to each book, maximizing its visibility and impact.
Social Media Management: In the digital age, a strong online presence is crucial. Publicists excel in managing an author's social media platforms, engaging with readers, and expanding their online reach.
Events Coordination: Whether it's book launches, signings, or speaking engagements, publicists ensure that an author's events run smoothly and garner maximum attention.
Reputation Management: Publicists help authors build a positive reputation by monitoring reviews and addressing any issues or controversies promptly and professionally.
Expanding Beyond Amazon: The Importance of Ebook Platform Awareness:
While Amazon is a dominant player in the ebook market, it's essential for authors to recognize the vast landscape of ebook distribution platforms beyond this giant. Ignoring platforms such as Smashwords, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Apple Books can be detrimental to an author's brand awareness and sales for several reasons:
Diverse Audience: These platforms attract readers who may not be Amazon users, broadening an author's reach to a more diverse and global audience.
Market Share: Collectively, these platforms represent a significant portion of the ebook market share. Focusing solely on Amazon means missing out on a substantial customer base.
Discoverability: These platforms often have features and promotions that can help authors gain visibility and attract new readers.
Reader Preferences: Some readers prefer specific ebook platforms for their user experience or device compatibility, so being present on multiple platforms accommodates these preferences.
Risk Mitigation: Relying solely on one platform exposes authors to potential disruptions or policy changes that could impact their sales and brand visibility.
At the end of the day, authors should consider hiring a manager and publicist to leverage their expertise and support their journey in the publishing world. Additionally, expanding their ebook presence beyond Amazon to platforms like Smashwords, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Apple Books is essential for maximizing brand awareness and sales. With the right team and a comprehensive approach, authors can thrive in the competitive and dynamic world of publishing.