Tim Toady

Bestseller Lists

The allure of bestseller lists, such as the Wall Street Journal's, often shapes publishing strategies, but Seth Godin challenges this mindset. He suggests that focusing on creating books that naturally generate word-of-mouth is more effective than chasing list placements. "Making great books, books that people choose to talk about, is reliably the single best way to make a difference in book publishing," he asserts 1. Godin emphasizes that the true measure of success lies in the book's ability to sell itself beyond the initial 10,000 copies, rather than relying solely on bestseller status.

   

Persistence

Persistence and adaptability are crucial in the publishing journey, as Seth Godin illustrates through a listener's story. Michel Poro's experience of working tirelessly for three years without significant results highlights the importance of resilience and diversity in one's approach. Godin notes, "We have to persist in being unfragile," emphasizing the need for a diverse portfolio to withstand setbacks 2. He advises that while the path may be uncertain, maintaining resources and resilience can lead to eventual success.