Business

A Guide to Working in the Publishing Industry: Statistics, Careers, and Trends

Published

1 month ago

February 7, 2023

The publishing industry continues to grow and evolve, providing a wealth of career opportunities for a range of professionals, from editors to book designers.

Global publishing is now a $119 billion market, according to IBISWorld, with over 16,000 businesses operating in the industry. U.S. book publishers saw a 6.9% year-over-year revenue increase in 2019, as reported by the Association of American Publishers. Meanwhile, the internet and digital publishing tools have made books more accessible to readers across the globe and revolutionized how many companies operate.

Publishing is going strong and experiencing rapid change, making it an attractive career field for future professionals of many backgrounds and interests.

The publishing industry landscape

If you’re an aspiring publishing professional, you should understand the different types of publishing and research the leading industry players before deciding which area you’d like to work in.

Trade publishing

Trade publishers produce books for a general audience of readers, including novels, biographies, and children’s books. The top five trade publishing companies are:

Hachette Book Group
HarperCollins
Penguin Random House
Simon & Schuster
MacMillan Publishers

Academic publishing

Academic publishers produce books for schools and universities, such as textbooks. Leading academic publishing companies include:

Cambridge University Press
Oxford University Press
Routledge
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Palgrave Macmillan

Independent publishing

Independent publishers, or small presses, are not affiliated with large corporations. As such, they may have more creative freedom in producing and marketing books, commonly publishing material for niche genres and specific communities.

Examples of independent publishing companies include:

Bellevue Literary Press
City Lights Publishers
Coffee House Press
Enchanted Lion Books
Graywolf Press

Self-publishing

Self-publishing platforms allow authors almost complete control over the publishing process, from price to art direction to distribution. This option has become increasingly popular, as evidenced by the 40% increase in self-published books from 2017 to 2018.

Top self-publishing platforms include:

Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing
Barnes & Noble Press
Apple Books
Lulu
Reedsy

Careers in the publishing industry

The publishing process is complex, spanning many different fields and careers. Here’s a breakdown of the steps — and job roles — involved in taking a book from being written to sold.

Acquisition

Acquisition occurs when a publishing company buys the rights to a book from an author, literary agent, or editor. Books are often acquired based on samples or proposals, as well as their projected ability to drive sales.

Career: Literary Agent

Literary agents represent writers, acting as intermediaries between authors and publishing companies. They often review manuscripts and pitch them to publishers on their clients’ behalf. They also help clients negotiate contracts and deals with favorable terms, such as larger advances. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), agents of independent artists, writers, and performers earned a median salary of $71,380 in 2019.

Editing

Editing involves making structural changes and major revisions to a book as needed. It entails adjusting elements such as narrative, pacing, length, tone, and characterization to make the book more readable and salable.

Career: Book Editor

Book editors fulfill these responsibilities, preparing manuscripts for publication. They may work in-house with publishing companies or as freelance consultants, such as for independent publishers and self-published authors. According to July 2020 data from PayScale, book editors earn a median annual salary of around $46,000.

Copy editing

Copy editing goes beyond structural editing to find and correct small errors in the text, such as spelling and punctuation issues. It may also involve fact-checking statistics and information.

Career: Proofreader

Proofreaders carefully go through the latest version of a manuscript, correcting any typographical and grammatical issues before confirming it’s ready for design and layout. According to the BLS, proofreaders earned a median salary of $38,510 in 2019.

Designing

Designing involves creating cover art and choosing images and illustrations to be included in the book. It may also entail preparing the book layout, such as spacing and margins, for printing or online publishing according to the publishing company’s style guidelines.

Career: Book Designer

Book designers may specialize in certain areas, such as cover design, print design, or e-book design. According to July 2020 data from PayScale, book designers earn a median annual salary of around $31,000.

Production

Book production is the process of binding and printing a new publication. Publishing companies often print a small number of advance copies of a book to be checked by the editor and sent to reviewers before it hits shelves. Once the advance edition receives approval, the book can be printed for sale and distribution.

Career: Book Publisher

Book publishers manage each stage of the production process, ensuring that the manuscript is on schedule for its publication date. According to July 2020 data from PayScale, book publishers earn a median annual salary of around $50,000.

Distribution and sales

A publishing company or self-publishing author distributes copies of a book to retailers, wholesalers, and libraries. They may also send digital copies to online marketplaces for e-book sales. Publishing companies can also help authors negotiate sales for international distribution, as well as movie or TV rights.

Career: Book Buyer

Book buyers or purchasing managers work with bookstores and distributors to find publications for them to sell. These professionals use factors such as customer demographics, retailer locations, and costs to choose the best products for each seller. According to the BLS, purchasing managers and buyers earned a median salary of $69,600 in 2019.

Marketing

Marketing involves promoting new books for sale. Publishing companies and authors might work with bookstores, catalogs, book conferences and fairs, and media outlets to advertise their publications. Today, authors are also encouraged to conduct online outreach through channels such as social media, blogs, newsletters, and podcasts.

Career: Publicist

Publicists work with authors and publishing companies to build campaigns for new books about to hit the market. Their responsibilities can include sourcing customer reviews and scheduling interviews, readings, and signings. According to July 2020 data from Pay Scale, publicists earn a median annual salary of around $49,000.

How to get a job in the publishing industry

If you’re interested in building a career in the publishing industry, use these actionable tips to get started.

Earn a degree in a related field

Find a bachelor’s degree program in your desired career field, such as publishing, marketing, or communications. The program should provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to begin building a portfolio and pursuing opportunities to gain experience in your preferred job role.

Gain experience with an internship

Complement your education with hands-on, real-world experience. The top five trade publishing companies offer internships, as do many small and independent publishers. As self-publishing continues to thrive, you can also find opportunities to work with independent authors and online publishing platforms to learn about the publishing process.

Network in person and online

Network with current publishing professionals, as well as peers trying to enter the industry. Communicate with these connections through virtual or in-person meetups to stay abreast of internship opportunities, helpful tips, and new trends affecting your field.

Use these valuable resources to begin networking and taking the next steps in your publishing career:

Association of American Publishers (AAP). This association supports publishers on matters of law and policy, and it advocates for creative expression in the industry.
American Booksellers Association (ABA). Founded in 1900, this nonprofit supports independent bookstores with educational programming, business services, and local advocacy efforts.
Association of University Presses (AUP). This association provides educational, networking, and research opportunities for 155 academic presses.
Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA). The EFA connects editors, writers, publishers, and proofreaders and provides them with educational resources for excelling in their careers.
Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA). This association aims to provide independent publishers with access to the tools, education, and knowledge they need to succeed in a competitive industry.
Publishing Professionals Network (PPN). This nonprofit organization provides educational resources to anyone interested in building a career in book publishing.
Young to Publishing Group (YPG). This group, part of the AAP, gives entry-level publishing employees a community of peers to connect with and learn from.

Trends for the future of publishing

The publishing industry is ever-changing as consumer interests evolve, publishing companies merge, and new technologies revolutionize the publishing process.

The following major trends are currently shaping the future of publishing:

The growth of audiobooks

Audiobooks are booming, even overtaking e-books in sales. According to the Association of American Publishers, downloadable audio sales increased 22% from 2018 to 2019, driving $577 million in sales. Like streaming music and podcasts, which are also growing in popularity, audiobooks can be accessed easily across devices and listened to on the go.

The increase in independent bookstores

As bookstore chains such as Barnes & Noble and Borders continue to close, independent bookstores are popping up to fill the gap and offer in-person retail experiences for book buyers. These mom-and-pop shops can forge more personal connections with consumers and provide more curated experiences. Publishers should embrace opportunities to build relationships with independent bookstores to learn about their buyers and get books on their shelves.

The self-publishing boom

Self-publishing will continue to grow as authors seek to bypass go-between publishing companies and sell their work on their own terms. This will likely drive an increased need for freelance publishing professionals, such as editors, designers, and marketers, who can work with self-published authors on a contract basis. However, industry insiders predict that the top five publishing companies will start using Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform to release books on their backlists and generate revenue.

New strategies and tools for digital marketing

Today’s book publishers and authors can go beyond just launching ads and hosting book signings to promote their new works. They can use the internet to build websites, blogs, and social media campaigns, reaching audiences across the world without breaking the bank. Specifically, marketers and self-published authors can consider these growing channels to spread the work about their books:

Viewership has increased 99% since 2019, with platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook driving the most engagement. Authors can use livestreams to host real-time book readings, Q&As, and contests.
Over half the U.S. population has listened to podcasts and audiobooks, and that number is likely to grow. Authors can launch their own podcasts, join podcasts as guests or interviewees, or place ads in relevant podcasts, such as those of book reviewers.
Email newsletters. Statista projects 3 billion people will be email users by 2023 — up from 3.9 billion in 2019. Authors can use this channel to distribute electronic newsletters with exclusive content, book previews, and special offers for loyal readers.

Build a career in the publishing industry

There’s no one way to build a career in the publishing industry. Students and professionals interested in publishing can choose from a range of fields, from editing and design to marketing and book buying. Just be sure to build your knowledge and experience in your chosen area and stay on top of new trends. As technologies and audience interests evolve, the publishing industry will continue to change and, as a result, offer exciting career opportunities.

The outline lists Book Packager, but we couldn’t find salary information for that field, so we replaced it with Publisher.

The outline calls for Book Seller, which is the person-to-person retail end (and which usually doesn’t require a BA); we replaced it with Book Buyer, which is more connected to publishers.

Related Topics:Business digital marketing

Up Next

How to Prepare for a Layoff Before It Happens

Don't Miss

Mental Health Counseling vs. Social Work

Click to comment

Business

Reap the Usefulness of Investing in Custom Mailer Boxes

Published

1 month ago

February 9, 2023

Adam T

Custom mailer boxes can help save time and money while still looking professional. These boxes are also cheaper than buying generic boxes that are not customized. Custom mailer boxes can be made to fit any size, shape or material. This way, items will arrive safely and unbroken.

Custom mailer boxes help businesses save time and money while providing a safe package for products during shipping. They make small orders look like large ones and provide a memorable unboxing experience for customers. They also help businesses be more environmentally friendly by using eco-friendly materials. This can help businesses make more money and keep customers coming back.

When you are sending something in the mail, you need to be careful about custom mailer box detail. This includes the shape and size of the envelope, and the color and design of what is inside. It is a very detailed process that requires a lot of creativity and attention to detail.

The way your mailer looks can make it more special than other mailers.

By picking the appropriate size and shape for your document, you can create a more engaging experience for customers. For example, letters are often preferred to postcards since they tend to draw more attention from potential readers. Additionally, an ideal design allows materials to be opened and closed quickly yet effectively by users. With these factors in mind, it’s easy to see how selecting the correct form is essential when printing words or pictures!

Make sure that you use an envelope that is the right size when you are sending a mailer. This way it will be easy for the person who is receiving it to store it. If you are sending the mailer through the regular postal service, avoid using a plastic envelope. This is because the envelope might not fit through their sorting machines.

The design and colors you use on your mailer packaging should show what your brand is.

Think about what colours to use on your packaging. Bright colours will make people notice it, while more subtle shades look nicer and more grown-up. You should also add words or headlines that explain why someone would want to open this particular package. By designing attractive mailers that give the desired information about a product or service, businesses can emphasize their message and create a strong, lasting impression with potential customers. Companies can use this opportunity to make their product look different from other products. They do this by making special packages with logos, pictures, and text that people can easily find. This makes people want to buy the product more.

You want to use colors that make people want to know what is inside the package.

Be careful when choosing colors for your product. Colors mean different things in different cultures. If you are selling your product in a different country, find out what the colors mean there before you use them.

When you design something, you can make it different from others by using unique shapes, colors, and features. This makes your design special. If you want people to notice your design, use bright colors and an eye-catching composition.

When you make something just for one person, they like it more. For example, if you use someone’s name or where they live in what you’re making, they will feel special and might buy your product or service. You can also include pictures of what you’re selling.

Some people who see your products might want to buy them. This will help them see how the items would look in their own home. You can also use QR codes to give people extra information about your products or services without using up a lot of space on your packaging.   

Your business will look better to customers if you have a good mailer packaging design.

Mailer packaging designs are a good way to get more business than other companies. They make customers want to keep using your product. They show customers that you care about them having a good experience with your product.

When someone receives mail, it’s the packaging that first catches their eye and makes a lasting impression. If your package is dull or slap together without much thought, the recipient won’t feel as eager to open the envelope. However, if you invest in unique mailer designs tailor specifically for them – they will immediately recognize how valuable they are to you! Put extra effort into creating an impactful presentation of your product with stylish packaging and give customers an unforgettable experience.

Mailer packaging designs are a great way to advertise your product or service.

Mailer packaging designs help businesses talk to customers. By making pretty mailers with information about a thing businesses want to sell, businesses can make people remember their company. Companies can use this marketing chance by designing special packages with pictures, words, and their company’s name. Strategic mailer packaging design is the best way for companies to make their product or service stand out from what’s available on the market. If a customer sees your company’s logo, pictures, or other visuals on one of your products when they get it in the mail, they are more likely to remember your company later–which could lead to more sales! With a unique package-design strategy that is different from other companies’ options, businesses can quickly raise brand awareness and become more profitable.

Conclusion: 

Designing your own mailer packaging is a great way to show customers that you care about their business. It is also a form of advertising that is inexpensive and works well. Good designs can help people remember your brand and make them happy when they receive products in the mail, which could make them want to buy from you again in the future. This is something any business should consider if they want to be successful! You can visit at https://stampaprints.com/ to get packaging services.

It is important to think about everything before you start making your design. This way, it will be more successful. You need to design the packages, consider what goes in them, and make sure the content is personalized. If you do all of these things, you will be able to make mailer packages that work!

Beauty

How to Increase your Sales by Choosing Hair Spray Boxes for your Business

Published

1 month ago

February 9, 2023

Adam T

One of the most widely used products in the world is hair spray. Every woman has one of these in her bathroom, and it can be used for everything from fashion to keeping you dry in a downpour. What transpires, though, if you desire to boost sales? You must select the appropriate hair spray packaging for your company.

Engaging a Hair Spray Box has a Solid Effect on your Clients

Hairspray packaging boxes are unquestionably a useful tool for companies of all sizes. Whether you own a mom-and-pop store, spa, or salon, having a fully filled box will greatly boost your sales. It’s critical to get the best box for your company. You need to choose one that not only has the functionality and performance you require to succeed but is also aesthetically beautiful. The following advice will help you select the ideal hair spray box for your company:

1. Take a look at the box’s size. It’s not always best to go bigger when it comes to hairspray. While you don’t need a large container to transport a lot of goods, you do need enough room to be able to see what’s inside and quickly locate what you’re searching for. Most counters can accommodate a small box that nevertheless has enough storage capacity.

2. Take into account the box’s attributes. Other boxes have built-in racks for holding bottles of hairspray in various places, while still others have spritzers and organizers. Before making a buying decision, make sure the box’s characteristics will satisfy your demands as a business owner.

3. Think about how simple it is to utilize the box. If a hair spray container is poorly built or overly packed, using it may be challenging. Look for a user-friendly design.

(more…)

Business

How Many Gamblers Have Used Their Mobile Phone for Gambling?

Published

1 month ago

February 9, 2023

Adam T

In the past about a month, around half of players have bet utilizing their PDAs.

What Kind of Infringement Are Associated with Issue Analysts?

As per pieces of information, the level of encroachment related with Jos55 betting miscreants unites taking at 34%, compulsion at 19%, drug overseeing at 18%, and unlawful evaluation avoidance at 17%.

Do Electronic Scholars Have Different Records?

The speedy response is yes. Different information says that card sharks who bet online have a common of three records. 56% have more than one betting record.

What number of Individuals Read the Courses of action of Betting On the web?
One of every single five inspectors read the game plans. 65% found the data obliging.

What Is the Most Prominent Betting Turn of events?

The most famous sort of betting is with the Public Lottery draw. Scratch cards come in after any extra lotteries.

End

While a large portion of us are inclined to think betting is a harmless movement, these betting pieces of information for 2023 recount another story

One of the bits of betting that causes penchant is the drawn out degrees of dopamine in the body that is conveyed while betting.

That splendid manufactured establishes it radiate a connection of being more charming, which accomplishes extra betting and more visits to a club or web betting settings.

Not all individuals become related with betting to the spot of oppression, however the potential is absolutely there.

Precisely when inspectors become dependent upon the adrenaline rush that betting produces, they can continue to go paying little heed to what the undesirable results.

You could see that in families where the channel on resources and quality time are influenced in a not completely ideal sort of manner.

One thing is certain. Expecting you never begin betting, you will not anytime become dependent. The assessments alone ought to show that to you.

Persistently’s end, it really depends upon you whether you bet. These nuances are accessible to assist you make better choices with your cash.

What number of individuals Bet? While betting assessments are stimulated fairly yearly, they rarely go from the continuous models concerning betting drive or the allure of betting.