It’s the beginning of a new quarter and the time to begin quarterly tasks. It’s important to have an updated media list for publishers who send authors to your store so they can do their own media outreach. So let’s make sure your media list is current.

There are two types of media lists. One is a list of top media outlets in your area with specific contacts for tv, radio, newspaper, etc., that can be used as a tool for publishers who do media outreach for events. The other is a press list for news releases, which can be local, statewide, or national.

Media List

Has anyone retired or moved on to a different market? It takes just a few minutes to call those on your list to verify that the contacts you have are still appropriate. Media outlets should include radio, television, and all of the weekly, daily, and specialty newspapers in your area. If the newspaper is large enough to have a book page and a children/family writer, list names for these individual specialties. And news directors at radio and television stations tend to change often, so be sure to call them. For each individual listed, include the name, title, e-mail address, phone and fax numbers, and mailing address.

Once you’re finished, add an “Updated 07/01/14” footnote, then save it as a PDF. Now it’s ready to send to any publicist who might be sending an author your way.

Press Release List

Since these releases are best sent via email, errors can leave an long-lasting digital trail. Look at the reports from the latest releases you’ve sent. Are the bounces consistent? Some emails bounce because a mailbox might be full, or the recipient’s email service might have some other temporary glitch. But if an email address consistently shows up in the bounced field, you probably have a bad address. A quick web search or a phone call will yield the correct address for press releases.

Is your reach extended far enough? From how far will customers drive to your store for an event? Pre-event coverage in area papers can help increase attendance numbers, so be sure to include daily and weekly newspapers from a wide radius surrounding your store. Area press associations often provide a list of newspapers with contact information on their websites. Here is a directory of state, regional and national press associations from the Newspaper Associations of America.

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