Guest Author - Paula Egner

Echelon Press recently celebrated a milestone that many small businesses never reach – their fifth anniversary. “The government expects the small business to fail within two years—there is no success in the equation,” owner Karen Syed said.

Echelon Press began as a barely-surviving electronic publisher. Today, they are a traditional publishing house that boasts more than 100 authors, many of whom have won national awards. Some have gone on to find publication with coveted New York publishers.

Karen says that the authors bring her the most joy from her business. “I adore meeting new people, and there is something satisfying about discovering and introducing new talent to thousands of people. It’s a bit like being a dream maker, but better. Seeing a book published is reality.”

She admits that authors are also the most challenging aspect of publishing. “Dealing with diverse personalities can be exhausting! Each author has put their entire being into their work. It can be devastating to them to relinquish control.”

When Syed considers what she could have done differently, she doesn’t hesitate, “Start smaller! I went into the industry with stars in my eyes and no common sense. If I had to do it over again, I would take it slower.” She added that building a solid strategy with a good financial reserve is also critical.

Karen was in the teaching profession for more than a decade. She also owned a bookstore and authored seven novels. “After being published — badly! — I committed to offering a place for authors with unique voices to find their place in the industry.” She started Echelon Press as her means to fulfill that commitment.

She looks forward to continued success in the future by maintaining their current publishing schedule, as well as increasing the exposure of what they publish. However, she believes that the “superstore” mentality will continue to pose a formidable challenge. “It will take ingenuity and total commitment to earn our share of the market.”

Her advice to other women entrepreneurs? “Follow your passion! For years I did what everyone wanted or told me to do. If you decide to do it, commit to it. OWN IT! No matter what, feed the passion.”

Karen believes that Oprah Winfrey summed it up when she stated, “I’ve come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that’s as unique as a fingerprint, and that the best way to succeed is to discover what you love, and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you.”

For more information on Echelon Press, their published works and authors go to: http://www.echelonpress.com.