Anyone in regular contact with authors knows what is needed to assist them in the publishing industry. In addition to intuition, patience and understanding for the concerns of new authors, who often don’t know what to expect when publishing their first book, extensive expertise in the trends and the fast-paced nature of the industry is needed. We asked novum publishing's long-standing author advisors Susan and Margaret how the publication of a book becomes a success story from the very first page onwards.
 

Susan, you have been responsible for author support at novum publishing for many years now. What qualities do you think an experienced author advisor needs to have?

Susan: Being in constant contact with new authors requires a strong sense of empathy and sensitivity. For writers who deal with self-doubt and worries, it is especially important to offer a lot of understanding and patience. We also try to be flexible and accommodate special requests when possible. And of course, a certain love of literature is also important.

Which are the traits that shine through most in your everyday routine at the publishing house?

Margaret: The first thing that comes to mind is good organizational skills (laughs). With the large number of author requests we receive every day, you just have to be well organized. Diligence and accuracy are essential, and friendliness and helpfulness are just good manners!
 

You mentioned self-doubt in the context of author contact. How do you deal with worries and concerns of this nature in practice?

Susan: Thanks to years of professional experience in publishing, we are familiar with the initial uncertainties of our authors. We try to prevent misunderstandings and common errors through a fluent exchange of information from the first moment of contact. Our authors benefit greatly from our vast experience! It is especially nice to be able to dispel the writers' worries with professional advice. When a book is finally ready for publication we share in the excitement of the author.
 

Do you have any particularly fond memories of success?

Margaret: Every completed production phase is a small success. Since the process takes a long time, some authors really grow on us. We are particularly touched when an author expresses his or her appreciation in the acknowledgement at the end of the book.

Susan: Of course, we are also happy about the many other forms of appreciation we receive! For example, some authors have surprised us with bouquets of flowers or a picture they painted themselves. And chocolate treats are also very popular with us! (laughs)
 

Could you give us some examples?

Margaret: The success of our house author Stan Wolf fills us with particular pride. Just recently we successfully placed the fourteenth volume of his series,"Gems of Dominion", on the book market. Stan already has a huge fan base and working with him is always a pleasure. But smaller successes are also cause for celebration. One example that comes to mind is the cookbook, "The Treasure of Ayurveda Cuisine", from which we have even prepared some dishes in our publishing kitchen.
 

You support the author from the moment the contract is signed until the last page is printed. Conversely, are there any opportunities for authors to help move the publication process along more quickly?

Susan: The first and foremost rule for authors is punctuality! The more reliably writers adhere to deadlines and time frames, the faster we can make the publication a reality. Willingness to cooperate goes from the completion of approval forms for the cover, layout, editing, etc. up to the final approval of promotional and marketing texts. Of course, we are always ready to support authors where we can. But in the end, meeting a planned publication date depends on constructive cooperation. This takes intuition, communication skills and also the ability to take criticism.
 

In the publication process is creative license endless or does artistic freedom also have its limits?

Margaret: In principle, there are no limits to the imagination. Our team also consists of very creative individuals, which is why we can accommodate just about any idea. Examples of this are our covers and book layouts, which are made individually for each work and are unique. Our graphic and layout departments have been able to fulfil every wish so far. And should ideas not be 100 per cent feasible, we look for an alternative that everyone agrees on.
 

You both have years of experience in the publishing industry. Do you have any valuable tips to give to new authors?

Susan: Personally, I can only suggest to every author that they should also help with publicity and marketing! Whether it's readings, social media marketing or word of mouth among acquaintances – for the success of your own first book, you shouldn't shy away from marketing.

Margaret: Communication is everything! Wishes concerning the cover, layout or texts should always be expressed at the very beginning. If something is unclear, we are always happy to be consulted and to help. In such cases, however, it is also important that the authors trust our expertise and recommendations. And of course, the information sheets sent with the countersigned publishing contract should also be read carefully and followed. Then nothing stands in the way of a successful publication!