When you promote a book, you should prepare for the worst of times well as the best.

Pretending that nothing could go wrong is wrong. Being prepared can help you handle crises they arise. Think about the way military trains even when not engaged in war. They are planning and practicing for specific situations so that they will be victorious. Proper preparation involves identifying and analyzing trends, and creating a strategy and an action plan for implementation and evaluating the effectiveness this plan.

It's never too late to prepare for something that hasn't happened yet. Take the time to think about potential problems and crises and create a plan of action so that you are ready to handle them with ease. Remember that you can still be a happy, positive person while accepting the fact that troubles will come. Perhaps now you'll be prepared to pack a good punch and send those troubles in the other direction.

Many authors, though, are more worried about no publicity than dealing with problems that might come up. Here are several ways to get your book out of it its unintended hiding spot.

Make a speech
Speaking engagements are multifold in terms of the benefits you receive. First, when you are a speaker at an event or conference, you are revered as the expert. People will look to you as the most knowledgeable on whatever it is you're talking about. You will also have the opportunity to directly interact with potential readers. Being friendly and responsive to questions and comments will demonstrate that you care and have a pleasant personality which never fails to resonate with people. Participate in the community

Think all the benefits that come with speaking engagements, plus the fact that you are truly connecting with members of the community. Nowadays, the world wants to know how you are doing good for the environment or helping those in need.

Put your face (and voice) on the Web
I've said it once, I'll say it again and I'll probably still say it again after that, the Internet is an incredible tool. Creating a video to embed on your Web site or blog will allow visitors to directly hear your message. Sometimes people are more responsive to audio and video than reading text. This is an opportunity to show your creativity or simply make a quick personal welcome and introduction. I recommend if you decide to include a video on your Web site, do not have the video play as soon the page is opened. Rather, give viewers the option of clicking on it.

Keep your cool.
When a major problem comes up, the worst thing to do is break down. Breaking down has the potential to create a waterfall effect with others. Be honest about everything you say, provide information that is accurate and be readily accessible to the public and the media.

Decide to comment or not to comment
Sometimes people are wary of making comments on an unfortunate situation due to the fear that something will be said to make the situation worse. It is true there are times when you should postpone making a comment. For example, if reporters contact you, it is perfectly appropriate to say you will get back to them as soon as you learn more and get your facts straight. However, most of the time, not saying anything at all can actually be worse than saying something. Take responsibility for the situation and be prepared to explain how it will be resolved.

Folks out there are interested in what you have to say and would like to see more of you. Now is not the time to hide.