Publisher Hopping

It's a rare thing nowadays for authors to stay in the same house where they published their first book. Why is that? we wonder.

Publishers claim that they want to groom authors for greatness; they want that long-term glowing relationship. But authors leave before that breakout book. It's unfortunate for the publisher. But while they want that ideal, they're also looking for the next big thing TODAY!

Is this malady solely the fault of authors with a straying eye? No. The fault lies on both sides of the relationship. Here are some of my ideas of what causes publisher hopping (please feel free to add in your two cents!).

1.) When an author feels underappreciated it's easy to look elsewhere, especially if there's an offer on the table from another publishing house. As with most affairs, once the initial romance wears off there has to be staying power, a real relationship; if there isn't you're a prime candidate for the wandering eye. This is why it's so essential that editors and authors connect, but not just editors but in each department of the publishing house where the author has contact.

2) Appreciation is "SHOWN" not "TOLD"--if you've read any books on writing you've heard this phrase, but it applies to relationships as well. A publisher can send chocolates and flowers, free books, tickets to the theater, but if their loyalty isn't shown in their everyday contact, you'll feel like a prostitute and not like a bride. The first "Showing" of course is in the initial deal. I'm not talking about getting a $100,000 advance here, but about respect. To show appreciation, return phone calls the same day messages are left. Answer e-mails immediately even if it's just to tell someone that you'll have to look into their question, and then follow up. It's basic courtesy that everyone deserves.

3.) The "Showing" goes both ways--if you're a Prima Dona, whiny and demanding in every interaction with your publisher, they'll eventually tire of dealing with you. Show them your gratitude daily, individually. People never tire of being thanked. And be humble enough to realize that your publisher can help you create a great book and that they truly are there to serve you.

Loyalty is a two way street.
If you as an author (or as a publisher, if you're a publisher) make an effort to get to know the people on a more personal level, the general good will toward you will rise. Take an interest in others, but talk honestly, respectfully about problems that arise. Condescension helps no one. Never fly off the handle. Never assume that others have less than the best of intentions.Treat everyone well--this says more about who you are as a person than about those around you. Say "hi" to the receptionist and ask about her children.

Authors are customers. While they might be selling a product like a vendor, they are the bread and butter of publishing. I believe that authors want to be loyal to that first "love" but if the romance dims and they feel they'll never break out of that "newcomer" pigeonhole, they are left with little choice but to find a publisher who appreciates them. A publisher who will reap the benefits of all the work that first publisher put into molding that author.

A great way to find out how to deal with your publisher or with your authors--take a course on excellent customer service and use what you learn there in your interactions with everyone. It will change your life!

More later,

Traci