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It's hard to say it any better: "Publicity is the voice of visibility." This is a terrific message to all of you authors out there. When it comes to getting the word out about your book in order to drive sales, nothing can beat a great public relations campaign.

But how do you find a publicist that best fits you and your book? Here Marsha Friedman, CEO of Event Management Services Inc, a national publicity firm shares her 10 tips to find the best publicist for your book.

1. Publicists often specialize in different genres of books (e.g., non-fiction, fiction, children's books, religious titles, etc.). If you book is financial, find a firm that works exclusively with that genre of book. Marsha Friedman says, "Same goes for all of the other genres as well."

2. If your book has a very unique subject or audience -- e.g. charitable giving, or secrets of the cable TV industry, etc. -- it's unlikely you will find a publicist who specializes in just that topic. Marsha Friedman says, "Instead, you'll want a publicist who will take the time to familiarize themselves with your topic or book and will craft a campaign to match your special needs."

3. Make sure that the publicist is a specialist in your choice of media. Marsha Friedman says, "Not every publicist is a master at every medium. Many publicists specialize in one medium and will refer business to other specialists when it's best for their client." So if you have written an exercise book, then TV would be best. Thus you would need to find a publicity firm that specializes in TV.

4. Ask for sample campaigns. Sure, it will be the publicist's best foot forward, but a sample will still demonstrate their skill and proficiency at obtaining media.

5. Along with reviewing sample campaigns, speak to past clients, too, if you have the slightest hesitation about engaging their services.

6. Find a firm whose fees are in range with other firms. When choosing a publicity firm it is more about their results than their fancy metropolitan locale.

7. And speaking of fees - in the book industry you'll find many publicists who work on a performance or project basis. This is not at all common with PR firms in other industries -and an opportunity you want to take advantage of. I strongly suggest that you avoid monthly retainer based firms and focus on finding ones where you pay for THEIR performance."

8. Look past the hype. Marsha Friedman adds, "Sales people can really build confidence, but in the end they are not the ones that will be handling the campaign So, don't be shy about asking who will be writing your press releases and who will be pitching you to the media. Find out how long they've been with the firm. Ask what their level of experience is. After you worked so hard on your book you want to be handled by the best."

9. In your search for the right publicity firm - don't just talk to local agencies. Especially if you're looking for regional or national reach. Virtually none of the work with your publicist will require "face time", so just look for the best ... period!" 9. Finally make sure that the publicity firm is enthusiastic about your topic! Many times, the determination of your publicity team can be a major reason for their successes in obtaining media coverage for you.

So think about it: Nothing can get your book more visibility than the right publicist! The journey to finding the perfect publicist for your book is down to these ten easy tips.If you would like to learn more about gaining national or local media attention for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Marsha is available to be of service . Feel free to contact her directly at mfriedman@emsincorporated.com or visit her firm online at http://www.emsincorporated.com. As a public relations expert Marsha Friedman has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without monthly retainers .

Marsha Friedman has been a leading authority on public relations for nearly two decades as CEO of Event Management Services, Inc (EMSI). If you would like to receive her free Ebook "How to Be a Great Talk Radio Guest" visit http://www.emsincorporated.com.