Introduction: The Big Dilemma
Once your book is published, you’re faced with a choice: Do you market it yourself, or do you invest in professional publicity services?
DIY may seem cheaper, but it can quickly become overwhelming. Professional author publicity packages can save you time and amplify results—but are they worth it? Let’s compare.
DIY Marketing: What It Looks Like
Pros:
- Low cost (your time is the main investment)
- Full control of messaging
- Grassroots authenticity
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for PR tools and strategies
- Requires hours per week of pitching, posting, and promoting
- Easy to burn out with little return
👉 Example: An author spends 10 hours per week trying to secure podcast appearances, with only a 10% response rate.
Professional Author Publicity Packages
What’s typically included:
- Press release creation + distribution
- Podcast and media pitching
- Book reviews and endorsements
- Social media campaigns
- Speaking engagement outreach
Pros:
- Industry relationships you don’t have
- Expertise in positioning and storytelling
- Faster, broader exposure
Cons:
- Higher upfront investment
- Less direct control over day-to-day tactics
Cost vs. ROI
- DIY cost: $0–$500 in tools, but 10–15 hours per week of your time.
- Publicity package cost: $2,000–$10,000 depending on scope, but can result in major media, podcast features, and speaking opportunities worth far more.
👉 If your hourly rate is $200 as a coach, 50 hours of DIY effort equals $10,000 of your time—often more than the package itself.
When to Choose Each
- DIY is right if: you’re testing the waters, have more time than money, or love the PR hustle.
- Packages are right if: you want to maximize results fast, focus on your core business, and build momentum without burnout.
👉 Inspired Press Publisher offers author publicity packages designed specifically for non-fiction coaches and consultants. Book a consultation to see if we’re the right fit for your goals.