The Bookseller.com

2nd December 2008

« Headlines

IPG plans mentoring scheme

18.09.08 Catherine Neilan

Leading publishing individuals are being called on by the Independent Publishers Guild (IPG) to share their skills and knowledge with industry newcomers in a new mentoring scheme launched this month. After a successful trial this summer, IPG is rolling out a full version of the scheme.

Mentors who have pledged their involvement include m.d. of Woodhead Publishing Martin Woodhead, Andy Hayward, sales and marketing director of Constable & Robinson, Kate Pocock, sales and marketing director of Yale University Press, and Philip Cotterell, former director of Piatkus.

Each mentor will offer a one-to-one programme, advising on topics ranging from the specific to wider strategies. Pairs will meet at least three times over six months, with regular email and phone contact.

IPG said members joining the scheme would be matched with a partner appropriate to their publishing field; all mentors provide their support for free.

Will Atkinson, sales and marketing director at Faber and chair of the IPG, said: "The IPG is a brilliant support network for independent publishers, and this scheme is an ideal way of channelling advice. We are delighted to be able to share the vast expertise and experience of our members and help make independent publishers even more successful."

IPG said both mentors and their apprentices had "gained professionally and personally" from the trial. Hayward, who took part in it, said: "Being a mentor gives me a great sense of satisfaction in being able to pass on knowledge that has been passed on to me by so many so graciously down the years. The great joy is that it is a two-way process because you learn from the person being mentored, too."

publishers IPG Independent Publishers Guild Catherine Neilan