It's hard to say it any better: "Publicity is the voice of visibility." This is a terrific message to all of you authors out there. When it comes to getting the word out about your book in order to drive sales, nothing can beat a great public relations campaign.

The trick is to find a terrific publicist to help you gain media attention for your book. But how do you do that? What should you be looking for? Here Marsha Friedman, CEO of EMSI, a national pr firm shares her 10 tips to find the best publicist for your book.

1. Publicists often specialize in different genres of books (e.g., non-fiction, fiction, children's books, religious titles, etc.). So, if your book is religious, find a firm that specializes in religious media as they'll have the strongest contacts and will know which shows and publications represent the best exposure for you. Marsha Friedman says, "Same goes for all of the other genres as well."

2. Find a publicist that will take the time to research your topic enough to understand how to communicate your message to the media. Marsha Friedman adds, "You don't want a publicist that will rush through your topic and campaign to varying successes. Choose one who is interested enough to ask questions and really grasp what your message is."

3. Make sure that the publicist is a specialist in your choice of media. Marsha Friedman says, "Every publicist you come across may not be specialized in the tv, radio or print that you desire. Many publicists specialize in one medium and will refer business to other specialists when it's best for their client." So if you have written an exercise book, then TV would be best. Thus you would need to find a publicity firm that specializes in TV.

4. Make sure that you request to see sample campaigns. Sure, it will be the publicist's best foot forward, but a sample will still demonstrate their skill and proficiency at obtaining media.

5. Along with reviewing sample campaigns, speak to past clients, too, if you have the slightest hesitation about engaging their services.

6. Find a firm whose fees are in range with other firms. When choosing a publicity firm it is more about their results than their fancy metropolitan locale.

7. And speaking of fees - in the book industry you'll find many publicists who work on a performance or project basis. This is not at all common with PR firms in other industries -and an opportunity you want to take advantage of. I strongly suggest that you avoid monthly retainer based firms and focus on finding ones where you pay for THEIR performance."

8. Look past the hype. Marsha Friedman adds, "Sales people can really build confidence, but in the end they are not the ones that will be handling the campaign So, don't be shy about asking who will be writing your press releases and who will be pitching you to the media. Find out how long they've been with the firm. Ask what their level of experience is. After you worked so hard on your book you want to be handled by the best."

9. In your search for the right publicity firm - don't just talk to local agencies. Marsha Friedman says, "This point is really important if you are interested in gaining the attention of the local media. Virtually none of the work with your publicist will require "face time", so just look for the best ... period!" 9. One last point - find a firm that has an understanding of your topic and an enthusiasm for your message! Their determination alone can often be the driving force behind prime media placements for you.

So there you go! Go out and there and find the best publicist!just make sure to use these 10 vital tips! If you would like to learn more about gaining national media exposure for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Marsha Friedman would love to help. Feel free to contact her directly at mfriedman@emsincorporated.com or visit her firm online at http://www.emsincorporated.com. As a public relations expert Marsha Friedman has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without monthly retainers .

Marsha Friedman has been a leading authority on public relations for nearly two decades as CEO of Event Management Services, Inc (EMSI). If you would like to receive her free Ebook "How to Be a Great Talk Radio Guest" visit http://www.emsincorporated.com.