Part 1/7: Mike Shatzkin, "Planning for a Long Career in an Industry That's Changing"

Part 1/7: Mike Shatzkin, a highly respected and experienced consultant, was a recent speaker in The Publishing Point’s series of lunchtime talks. Speaking to a packed house at Hachette and delivering what proved to be a thought-provoking and farsighted view of the future of the book industry, Mike had some clear advice for those planning a long career in publishing: the companies that will succeed will be those that focus on building compelling content for well-defined “vertical communities.” Consolidation among the largest trade houses was inevitable, with the big six shrinking to two in the next 10 years, Shatzkin predicted. Delivered in his characteristically forthright style, Mike’s presentation also included some fascinating insights into topical controversies: the pricing war between Amazon and publishers, the scheduling of e-book releases, and much more.