Kim Alexander's Fiction Nation

[Jack Getze]

My recent interview with Kim will be broadcast this weekend on XM satellite radio, Saturday at 6 pm, Sunday at 10 am (EDT). My ex-PR guy was pretty excited about this, but I've learned not to expect sales results from such things. Any of you that have also been interviewed by Kim, did you see any immediate sales?

[Jack Getze]

No Sale.

[Neil Plakcy]

I don't know that you can expect immediate sales from any venue other than a direct e-mail campaign to your fans with a click-through. It's all about impressions; the more times people hear your name or the name of your book, the more likely they are to make a purchase (provided that it's a book they'd want to read.)

I've done three radio interviews so far and can't say for sure that anyone has even heard them, no less bought a book based on them. But they've been fun to do, and I figure it's all part of the marketing.

[Jack Getze]

I know you're right about this, Neil. But as any of my former dates will tell you, I'm always hopeful.

[Janet Reid]

My client Bill Cameron was interviewed by Kim. The interview itself may not drive sales, but you can use it to bring attention to the book one more time. Post a link to it on your blog, email your pals, post it on DorothyL.

And remember too, lots and lots of people read their mysteries in library books. One of the things you want to do is build recognition so people will ask for your new books at the library or even just read you for the first time cause they remember your name from seeing something about the interview.

I'm a former publicist so I'm of the opinion that it's never a waste of time to do any kind of interview when you're trying to build a career as a crime novelist.

[Jack Getze]

You're right, of course, Janet. Multiple hits. Use it again (I have). Libraries and even used book sales help build (we hope) a fan base. It's the career, not a book sale.

Still, the warrior in me likes to fight a daily battle. I like to wave my sword, huff and puff, seek the shining shields of my foe...trophies of my victories.