Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in publishing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jeanne Martinson, Founder of Wood Dragon Books, located in Mossbank, SK, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a hybrid press, which means we publish books traditionally (where the author does not contribute economically to the project) and collaboratively (where the author contributes to editing costs). All our authors receive royalties on book sales. So our customers are primarily the book-buying public, book shops, and online book sales platforms, but also authors who wish to work with us collaboratively.
Tell us about yourself
After 30 years as a professional speaker, researcher, and author, I turned from sharing my words to sharing the wisdom of others. Throughout my speaking career, I have authored 14 books and so had a firm grasp on the roles of editor, author, and publisher and how I could help other authors succeed. My thrills are seeing the books of our authors short-listed for awards, glimpsing the first cover of a new title, and having readers tell us that our books have changed their lives.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Moving quickly from Wood Dragon Books being a one-person show to having more than 30 authors, five designers, and six editors within two years.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
You are a bit on your own island as every business is unique in its own way, and so finding answers to business problems is always challenging.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure your investment and working capital is lined up ahead of time. Bankers love fully employed people, so line up your finances before you leave your day job.
- Find people to do what you cannot do or do not have the time to do in your business. I don't have time or interest in bookkeeping, so I have someone who takes that load off my shoulders.
- Find support in your industry association, ask questions, and listen to advice from those who have been around longer than you. They succeeded this long for a reason.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.wooddragonbooks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WDBPublishers/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeannemartinson/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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