How you feel about Publishers - Writers Forum

Duke · 10-02-2005, 05:00 PM

Hi all,

Since I am starting a publishing company I was wondering what you as the writer feel is important and would like to see with publishers.

Aside from the usual, good pay and copyright, what would you like to see as a writer in the publisher?

I would really be interested in hearing what you want!

Thanks

Ralizah · 10-02-2005, 08:06 PM

You're starting your own company? Good for you.

What I'd like to see is a generous amount of marketing for its accepted work, so that the writer doesn't have to market it as much himself.
Also, it'd be nice if a rejected work got more of a rationalization for the decision beyond 'thank you for submitting PIGS AND PYGMIES -- Unfortunately, you're not what we're looking for.'
It may not be possible at first, but if it ever takes off, I think it'd help your company.

Oh yes, when you do establish it, I'd like to know. I am a writer myself.

Duke · 10-02-2005, 08:16 PM

Yes I will let people know when it gets up and running.

Thank you for your advice. I agree that a better letter letting the writer know why it was not chosen is a very solid idea.

Also I agree about being friendly. It does not matter what business you are in its still a customer-based business and it should always be handled that way. In the same you must treat people how they want to be treated. You will never make all the people happy, but you can sure try!!!

Thanks again

mollybloom · 10-02-2005, 09:45 PM

Most vanity publishers (or the new age term of POD publishers) are in the business of making money off the authors and not from a large readership.

And yet some of these companies hide behind an editorial process--meaning they have editors who reject most stories and accept a few. But still, just because manuscripts are screened doesn't mean it will help a professional reach his goal of being published and successful.

Marketing and getting people to buy books is much more important than the simple accomplishment that this book was traditionally published.

So a hungry publishing company that wants to get noticed and sell lots of books--and has the results to show for it-- is what to look for.

Nickie · 10-03-2005, 02:41 AM

I'm also getting rerady to start my own publishing company. I'm still working on the financial aspect, but I would most like to ask no money of the writer, not like most POD publishers.
I do intend to work with the POD printing technique, as this is really the future of printing.
What I CAN offer my authors is personal attention (as I'm still working full time, I plan not to publish too many books at first). I want to have the time to read through the manuscript, offer my comments on it and let it go accompanied with acception or refusal. The contract should also be fair to both publisher and author. No hidden clauses. And in a language that everyone can understand (I'm a language teacher).
Marketing is a very important means of getting known. I'll use what I have learned in the past to market the books of my authors (including press coverage, local events, deals with libraires and bookclubs). And I would try and get a deal with our major bookseller here in Belgium to have the books in the bookstores, with a return policy. Later on, we can do some more advertising and attend book fairs. But I can only do that when I'm not working anymore, so it will depend on the profits of the company.

Nickie

mammamaia · 10-03-2005, 11:15 AM

duke... check your mail... just sent you a pm...

hugs, maia

Duke · 10-08-2005, 03:03 PM

Thanks for your responses. It is nice to have writers opinions on this.