Q&A With WriteByNight Consultant Joe Marich

 

Joe Marich (Las Vegas, NV) is founder and president of Marich Media. With an emphasis in literary media relations and marketing, Joe has helped launch more than 800 books, planning and executing national and international campaigns. He represented Michael Crichton (Jurassic Park, ER, State of Fear) for nearly twenty years, and has handled public affairs and crisis management for Warner Music Group and provided counsel to Virgin Records, United Talent Agency, and Oracle.

 

 

Where are you from?

I am originally from Chicago, but lived in the Los Angeles area for 36 years. I am now living in Summerlin, a suburb of Las Vegas.

 

Where did you study?

I received my BA at Illinois State University, and my MA at California State University, Long Beach.

 

Who are some of your influences?

I read and am influenced by a multitude of writers from all genres. Difficult to pick just a few!

 

What is your favorite thing about educating writers at WBN?

I love speaking to new and up-and-coming writers to help them understand that not only do they need to hone their writing and creativity, but they must also understand the business side of writing.

 

What is the hardest part of writing for you?

I really find writing relaxing and exciting, so once I’m in the zone, there’s really no stopping me. That being said, starting is always the major challenge.

 

What is your strangest writing experience?

It’s strange to have to get into the head of many different writers all in one day.  I may have to write press materials for a book on cancer, a sci-fi book, a romance novel, and a memoir all in the same workday. It’s a weird and rewarding experience, to say the least.

 

What is your favorite word and why?

I honestly don’t really have a favorite. I will tell you a word you will NEVER see me use: Unique. It says nothing. HOW is something unique? WHY is something unique? Unique is merely a starting point to choose the appropriate word.

 

Word association: Literature.

Human insight.

 

Where do you see the world of writing and publishing heading?

Self-publishing is the present AND the future. My hope is that writing doesn’t become trite and dumbed-down, and that writers continue to reveal more facets of the human condition in new and exciting ways.

 

Any words of wisdom for aspiring writers?

Learn the business side of writing. [As an author] you are a small-business owner, and you need to educate yourself so you are successful.

 

Interested in a media consultation with Joe, where you’ll learn how to approach newspapers, magazines, podcasts, and more?

Request a free consultation now

 

“I got two hours of good advice! We discussed the book cover, and he had comments about details and touches that would enhance the first fifty pages. I thought his comments were good and knowledgeable. Joe knows his stuff.”

— Bonnie M.

 

“He gave me excellent feedback and I really enjoyed talking with him.”

— Jessica R.

 

“It was an incredibly valuable experience. First of all, Joe is simply a wonderful person, which made the conversation easy. Joe was fantastic at providing insights into what to expect and what works. He also gave some valuable feedback on the novel. Even when he pointed out some rather embarrassing mistakes on my part, he was supportive. Bottom line, I am thrilled to have had the opportunity.”

— Jeff P.

 

“Joe was generous with his experience … I greatly appreciate the big-picture perspective.”

— Susan J.