While having a positive attitude is important to pursuing your goals, you’re going to need some help along the way

Who cares if you wrote a book or started a new business that you’re really excited about? Is your enthusiasm going to pay your bills and earn you the kind of status you’ve been working hard to achieve? Is that gung-ho attitude going to allow you to break “even” on the money you’ve already invested in your project?

While having a positive attitude is important to pursuing your goals, you’re going to need some help along the way. Let’s be realistic. Your book (business) may do OK by word of mouth and press releases but just think of what could happen with something called “mega publicity.”

No, I’m not talking about one radio or newspaper interview in your community. I’m referring to the ability to reach the masses. I refer to it as “flooding the market” with a media blitz to get you the kind of exposure you’re seeking.

So how do you do that? You could try calling Oprah and if she calls you back---the rest is history. Of course, for the vast majority of us, the phone will never ring but that shouldn’t stop you from putting a plan of action together that could, very well, get Oprah’s attention in the future.

BUILD A MEDIA PLAN

Identify the radio and or television shows you would like to be interviewed on. Listen to those programs so you can get an idea of the interviewing style of the host. Find out the kind of topics he or she tends to focus on to see if you would be a good fit for their show. The worst thing you can do is send an email or media release to someone who focuses on politics and you want to talk about gardening. Also, it certainly doesn’t hurt to let the host know you listened to a particular show and how much you enjoyed it as you pitch yourself as a guest.

Don't limit yourself to just the stations in your immediate area. Make sure you cover as much territory as possible.  Another thing:  remember, radio interviews can be done over the telephone. Another thing: If you know you're going to be on vacation in a particular area on a specific date, contact the stations in that market and let them know you'll be available. You don't have to tell them you're on vacation---just that you'll be in the area. And don't be afraid to hype up the fact that the Host is getting a great opportunity to interview you.

Know the News of the Day: By knowing what's happening in and around your world, you should figure out how you can tie in your book---especially if you're a non-fiction author. For example: If there's a school shooting in your community and you've written a book young people and crime, call all of the media outlets and offer yourself as an expert.

If you want to know more about how to get media exposure, then you need to make plans to attend the Women's Media Summit sponsored by WECAI Network.

I have been asked to speak at the Conference by the WECAI Network Founder & CEO Heidi Richards. My topic will be: Who are YOU...and why should the Media care? There are a host of fabulous media experts who will give you their take on what it takes to get the attention you deserve. For more information, visit:  http://www.womensmediasummit.com

Tomorrow I’ll talk about shifting career gears and the media.