How do we build long-term relationships with authors?

When I started at Pearson in 2011, I worked solely on new editions. I would look at books we'd published previously and assess their potential to be refreshed and updated. It was a great introduction to the list as I got to know the books well, but it also meant I was working with authors who had an existing relationship with Pearson. It was interesting to hear how they'd found the process and get up to speed quickly with the book. It also showed our commitment to extending and increasing sales, where possible, as not every book gets a new edition.

One of the great things about my job is meeting new people and working on new ideas, but I also really enjoy working with existing authors again. A few years might have passed, but it's always good to catch up and hear what's new from them. It's always interesting to hear what they have to say on what needs updating in a book, and their ideas for pitching it to the editorial board. For some longstanding authors, we've now known each other for a long time, which feels special.

I did some number crunching. Of the authors we've published since 2021, 44 are first-time authors (at Pearson), 15 were doing a new edition, and 30 have written more than one book for Pearson. I think it's pleasing to see that although not every author gets (or wants!) to do a new edition or second/third/fourth book, it is the case for about half of our authors. Of course, these numbers don't include new editions or new books with existing authors that didn't get off the ground. Sometimes we've started talking and a project doesn't happen for whatever reason, but it's always good to have these chats. For some authors, their second book isn't a good fit for us, but as I always say, that doesn't mean it's not a good book for another publisher.

It's the intention which I think is important. We want to build long-term relationships with authors from when they start working with us. We want to give them a good experience from beginning to end. We want to be their publisher of choice, and we want to make all their books or editions a success. Of course, not every author wants to write more than book, but I hope they'll appreciate having a sounding board if they do.

The Pearson Business Book Club

The Pearson Business Book Club is open to all who would like to learn more about our business books or a particular topic, and the webinars are free to attend. You can also view the on-demand videos of previous sessions on the Book Club website.

Our Business Book of the Month for August is The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring by Ruth Gotian, Ed.D., M.S. and Andy Lopata . Their webinar is Meaningful Mentoring: Creating Valuable Mentoring Relationships as a Mentor or Mentee. Join us on Thursday 27 August 2024, at 2 pm (UK time) and register at https://www.pearson.com/en-gb/higher-education/students/careers/book-club.html , and let me know if you have any questions in advance.

How can you embrace mentoring effectively, both as a mentor and in building an impactful mentoring programme in your organisation? The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring gives you the tools you need to understand mentoring and its benefits, learn how to mentor effectively and how to engage the right mentor for you. By breaking down each stage of the process, this book will enable senior and aspiring executives to both give the support they need to act as a mentor to future talent in their organisation and seek mentoring for themselves to fast-track career progress.

Just Published / Noteworthy books

Accounts Demystified: The astonishingly simple guide to accounting by Anthony Rice (Pearson Business, 2015)

The bestselling and astonishingly simple guide to the fundamental principles of accounting, written specifically for those without a financial background.

Simple, easily absorbed and clearly explained, this book will guide you through all the major accounting concepts. You will learn how to master company accounts, understand balance sheets, profit and loss accounts and cash flow systems and how to analyse and monitor your company’s financial performance.

'Trust me - no other book makes the subject as simple and clear.' Jamie Reeve, Chairman, The Great Little Trading Company

'It's like a fog has been lifted... I suddenly get it and I'm only at page ten.' Paul Sanett, Development Director, Europe and Africa, Hilton Worldwide

Anthony Rice is not an accountant. He learned accounting the hard way – by keeping accounts for his own company. Having subsequently spent much of his time analysing companies, first as a strategy consultant and more recently when looking for businesses to buy, he has some valuable insights into financial analysis.

What am I reading?

The Joy of Sweat by Sarah Everts - what a fantastic book. Full of fascinating information and history paired with stories from the author's exploration of this subject. Highly recommend.

Finally

Do you have any ideas or suggestions for future newsletters? Did I strike a chord with anything in this newsletter? Is there a business book you've enjoyed recently that you'd recommend? Add a comment or email me at [email protected].