During my studies in the publishing industry, I have gained knowledge and experience in a variety of branches within the industry. Below, I have included some of these branches and the experiences that I have had within them. I have listed the sections in alphabetical order, starting with Acquisitions and Audiobooks, covering Marketing then Operations and Projects, and ending with Publicity.
Acquisitions
Below are examples of my thought process in rejecting and accepting a manuscript from a narrowed-down slush pile. Author names and titles have been redacted for privacy and copyright. Any identifiable characters and plots belong to the author(s).
Audiobooks
I’ve actively contributed to various stages of the audiobook production process. This is an example of Audiobook Script Preparation that I assisted with. I also have experience recording audiobooks as a directing and narrator, editing audio files, and proof-listening audiobook files.
Marketing
Within the realm of marketing, I have assisted in the creation of comprehensive marketing plans and press kits tailored to each publication. Moreover, I’ve delved into in-depth research on various aspects of the publishing landscape, including comp titles, book sales data in Circana, and prestigious book awards. Below, I’ve included a tipsheet that I designed for a book project team I was part of.
Operations and Projects
Within the realm of press operations, I have gained experience in diverse tasks including inventory management, shipping logistics, archival processes, and profit and loss analysis. Twice, I assisted with reviewing the sales reports from Amazon, ACX, and IPS distribution to prepare a Quarterly Sales Report Presentation for the weekly executive meeting. These presentations involved a comprehensive review of sales metrics vis-à-vis previous quarters and a detailed performance analysis across various titles and formats. This involvement has honed my ability to distill complex data into actionable insights.
While part of a book project team, I assisted with creating cover design briefs, branding briefs, and style guides aimed at encapsulating the essence and allure of each literary work. This hands-on experience has allowed me to blend creativity with strategic thinking, resulting in compelling visual narratives that resonate with target audiences.
Publicity
In assisting with publicity work, I have sought out authors and influencers to consider for blurbs and review requests of the books. I have also helped run a booth at the Portland (PDX) Book Festival, promoting books, the press, and the Master’s program at PSU. While working the booth and at two author launch events, I helped walk customers through the involved purchasing process required as a student-run press, maintaining a good customer service relationship.
At Ooligan Press and Weaver Business Coaching, I have worked on social media campaigns, from conceptualization to execution. I have written and scheduled posts for multiple platforms to resonate with a target audience, foster community engagement, and drive brand awareness.
Shoshana Weaver 