So I kind of love the Allstate Mayhem commercials. You’ve seen them right? They’re hilarious, and the goal: to get you all prepared and insured before mayhem strikes. Well, let’s replace mayhem with a book contract and insurance with a super sweet platform and marketing strategy, and we’ve got our topic for today and the next few weeks: Marketing Before You’re Contracted.

If you’re serious about a career as a published author, then the sooner you get started on the marketing piece of your journey, the further ahead you are…and the more attractive you are to agents and editors.

So in the next few weeks, we’re going to talk about some incredibly practical steps you can take to start marketing now. Over three weeks, we’ll look at a total of 20 tips.

Note: One thing we’re not going to talk about is websites, blogs and social media. I’m pretty certain most writers realize having a solid web presence is an absolute must at this point. However, if you’d like web/blog/social media tips, then I highly suggest reading MBT Social Media Coach Edie Melson’s posts here at the MBT flashblog.

Tips for Marketing Before You’re Published

1) Understand your message and know your audience.

One of the most important steps you can take to begin marketing now is to understand your unique message or story…and to whom it’s relevant. Who are your readers and what do you have to offer them? This is going to impact every marketing strategy you make from here on out and will help you determine where to focus your efforts.

2) Nail your book premise and be ready to give it at a moment’s notice.

The second someone asks you what your book is about, you should be able to answer. For a really cool take on answering the question, “What is your book about?” I recommend Rob Eager’s Sell Your Book Like Wildfire.

3) Start compiling your media list as early as possible.

This might seem like jumping the gun, but I promise, it’s not. Make a list of all the local media in your area. Compile contact emails and subscriber numbers. Think of niche media, too, who might be interested in your book…or you. For example, when I was preparing my book proposal, I contacted the editor of my college alma mater’s alumni magazine. I asked the editor if he’d be interested in doing a story on me or my book if it was published…he said yes. Their impressive subscriber number was a great thing to add to my proposal.

Compiling this information shows editors and agents you’re willing to do the legwork. And it might even pave the way for lasting professional relationships with valuable media contacts.

4) Join national writing or interest group organizations.

If you’re a member of MBT, you’ve already started this step. But don’t stop there. Get involved. For instance, did you know we have quite a few agents and editors at our annual pizza party each year? By getting involved, your name will begin to stand out. If you’re a member of ACFW, consider volunteering during the annual conference.

In addition to writing organizations, if your book includes a special interest—quilting, home decorating, gardening, human services—get involved in organizations where you’ll have a chance to connect with others of similar interest.

5) Join local chapters of national organizations.

You may not be able to be heavily involved in national organizations, but are there local chapters you can join? This helps you connect on a personal level with people who are sure to help cheerlead your writing efforts.

6) Be accessible.

Did you know that on average, website visitors spend less than five minutes on a site? A person should be able to figure out how to contact you within seconds of visiting your site. Same goes for printed materials, eblasts, etc. Make sure you offer a variety of contact avenues and clearly communicate that information!

Stay tuned for fourteen more tips in the next two weeks. If you have questions about any of the above, leave a comment and we’ll chat!

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Melissa Tagg is a former reporter turned romantic comedy author. Her debut novel, Made to Last, releases from Bethany House in September 2013. In addition to her nonprofit day job, she’s also the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy. Connect with Melissa at www.melissatagg.com and on Facebook and Twitter (@Melissa_Tagg).