When I was just starting out in comedy, I did a lot of my own publicity. I got pretty good at it, and got spots, reviews and features in all types of national media, including Good Morning America, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, to name a few. While it’s a lot harder now to get press than it was in the early 2000s, here are my suggestions:
Tell A Good Story
Everyone emails people and tells them about their book, their comedy routine, their painting. But few really put a good story into the pitch. Why did you make this work? How can it help the publication’s readers to know this story? Make it as juicy as possible.
Keep Communications Short
At the same time, don’t get in there and start telling folks your life story. Tell them the most interesting pieces that must be shared, and then leave the rest for them to explore on their own, via links, images or other materials.
Make Your Subject Really Strong
“Email about my book” probably isn’t going to stand out. Think of something that is going to connect—maybe it’s a parallel between your project and something the writer created, or a mutual friend’s name. Whatever it is, put it front and center.
Don’t Give Up
Just because one person turns you down or doesn’t respond doesn’t mean your project isn’t worthy of press. I like to remember the story of The Beatles being turned down by 30 labels before they finally found one. I bet the others kicked themselves for years.
Press is hard to get, that’s why press agents charge a lot for PR services. But that doesn’t mean without gumption, you can’t get some, too.
Today’s inspo:
Loved this interview about disability access in comedy spaces | Humorism
Hot Take On Hack Comedy | The Daily Beast
Viola meets stand up | TikTok
See you soon, you old so and so.