I have. Then the understanding of the knowledge and skill that the person(s) who pulled it all together has sets in - along with the realization that although I probably could do SOMEthing, my finished product wouldn't be nearly as polished.
The issue isn't just doing it - but doing it WELL.
As writing is one of the very first things we learn in school, it's not a surprise that many, many people think they can do it well. There are lots of folks who have a way with words and can compose the heck out of a letter or company report - and that's great. The problem is this: composing a bio, putting together a press release, connecting with reporters, podcasters and radio hosts or answering emails from those who reach out to connect is much more than stringing words together coherently.
How hard could it be, right? It's just a quick summary or note. If it means saving a few ducats or avoiding the hassle of finding a person to assist, it might even seem like a great idea - until the understanding of the knowledge and skill of the people who pull things like these together all the time sets in.
Like any job, publicists don't spend time doing just one thing. Most are really strong writers, but they are also good conversationalists, great researchers and excellent relationship builders. The press contacts they've developed may have taken years cultivate. And those quick phone convos and emails sent are all about polishing those efforts to make the clients that employ them shine.
That polish is how they do what they do WELL.
More than a few people I come in contact with erroneously assume that polish isn't necessary and treat it as a thing they could just do without. The details in how a thing is said, they feel, aren't nearly as important as what is said.
They are also the same folks who never get their event specifics out on time, take forever to answer email queries and drop the ball on important dates. Seriously, if you handle your marketing and publicity yourself but keep people waiting for details, have even a few emails that you haven't answered or make people chase you down via social media inbox or instant message, you might not be as up on your "I can do that" game as you think.
Think about it this way: If you needed new windows for your home, you'd probably talk to an expert who knows the nuts and bolts of window glass, locks and installation costs, I'm sure. And if you hurt your foot or eye, you'd try to find professionals who specialized in treating injuries like yours because of their knowledge of the ins and outs, right? Why should your publicity needs be any different?
While the seeds for your next book, EP or event are still taking root, why not give a person who specializes in publicity, marketing or public relations or holler? They've probably been there and done that WELL already. Let them help you figure out how to do it WELL, too.
