Quote:
Originally Posted by swhibs123
This is a tough question to answer with a yes or no. Publishers vary so much that you almost have to take it on a case-by-case basis. IMO - what you want from a publisher is:
1.history of solid sales
2.History of identifying talent, and producing good products (this and #1 probably go hand and hand)
3.experienced editors. Meaning, editors with industry experience.
4.Distribution into markets not readily available to SP authors.
5.Identifiable marketing (this probably ties into sales too).
That's a lot for the lonely self published author to do on their own, though some have, and with great success.
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That method would say that no author should work with a startup publisher. (I am biased--I'm currently working with a startup publisher.) Things a new publisher can offer besides proven experience:
1. Innovative/experimental approach to marketing, on a larger scope than an individual can manage: niche markets, new promotional methods
2. More personalized author support
3. Flexible production scheduling
4. Support for & promotion of broader scope of manuscript types/lengths
5. Ethical business practices that fit with the authors' and readers' preferences. (Not that Hatchette is immoral, but they won't be running a company-wide promotion to benefit
RAINN.)
And probably a few others I'm not thinking of right now.
The key issue is: authors should figure out what publishers are offering them, because "make a profit from your writing" is no longer enough.