The Decision-Making Process in Publishing: Who Decides and How Many Books Sell in the First Year?
In the intricate world of publishing, determining whether a book should be published and how successful it might be in its first year involve a multifaceted process. Here, we explore the roles and considerations that come into play.
Who Determines if a Book Gets Published?
The decision to publish a book is not a matter for a single person but rather a collaborative effort involving several key players within a publishing company. This process begins with the acquisitions editor, who is responsible for evaluating manuscripts and recommending those that align with the publisher's goals.
After the acquisitions editor's initial assessment, the manuscript may be presented to a broader editorial board or committee. This group, which includes other publishers and senior executives, will discuss the potential of the book and make the final decision on whether to move forward with publication. For major investments or strategic titles, the publisher or senior executives often have the final say.
Factors Influencing First-Year Sales
Once a book makes it to the shelves, the number of copies it sells in its first year can vary widely based on several factors. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding these key considerations can provide insight into the publishing process.
Debut Authors and New Talent
A debut author can expect to see sales ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 copies in the first year. These figures can be influenced by factors such as the genre, marketing support from the publisher, and the author's platform.
Midlist Authors and Established Talent
For midlist authors, sales can range from 5,000 to 20,000 copies in the first year. Authors with a strong track record and a loyal fanbase can see higher figures, while newer titles may struggle to reach these numbers.
Best-Selling Authors and Anticipated Titles
Best-selling authors or highly anticipated titles can achieve extraordinary success, with first-year sales reaching tens or even hundreds of thousands of copies. However, these figures are the exception rather than the rule.
The Role of the Acquisitions Editor and Beyond
The acquisitions editor is the initial point of contact for an author, where the idea of a book is pitched to the publishing company. The size of the print run is determined by the publisher's expectations, ranging from 3,000 mass-market paperbacks to 2 million hardbacks, with everything in between.
Editors with signing power have the ability to secure publishing deals, while others must convince the publisher's general manager or president to allocate a budget for the project. For these editors, the reputation of the book is on the line; they stake their professional credibility on the success of the publication.
Committee Decision-Making and Marketing Departments
For all but the smallest mom-and-pop companies, a committee consisting of editors, publishers, and marketing professionals makes significant decisions. Marketing departments may have the authority to veto projects if they believe the book would be difficult to sell. This dynamic ensures that the final decision is well-rounded and considers multiple perspectives.
Understanding the decision-making process and the factors influencing a book's success in its first year is crucial for all aspiring and established authors. Whether it's through effective marketing or an excellent manuscript, the right combination of factors can lead to significant sales and a successful publishing journey.