If you're an author trying to get on a major TV or radio talk show, don't pitch your book! Pitch an entire show that relates to the topic of your book. Example: If you wrote a book about how children of divorced parents suffer long-term effects well into adulthood, don't try to entice TV producers with the book. Entice them with an entire show around the topic of "Children of divorced parents: Do they ever recover?" Then suggest two or three other guests that tie into your topic who also could be interviewed, preferably someone who is on the other side of the issue. If you can do that, you've just given the producer an idea for an entire show, and they're more likely to bite because you've done their work for them.

Promote your books when people who call you on the telephone are put on hold. Your recorded message can tell them about your latest book and where to buy it, lead people to your website where they can read excerpts, and list helpful tips that tie into the topic of your book. Also entice them with information about upcoming titles.
For more information see Special Report 40.