Friedman says it is up to management to make the work environment as interesting as possible. We have a lot of creative people who like to branch out into new areas. The importance of giving employees a chance to grow within the company was echoed by several other executives. Kilcullen says that one reason he chose to base IDG Books in California and not New York is because he wants to create a hybrid company that isn't saddled with the culture of a traditional publishing company. He is emphatic about hiring employees who are entrepreneurial and who are interested in exploring different opportunities.
Employees certainly feel more in charge of their career now than in the past.
While startups offer the chance for riches, they also mean long hours and a grinding schedule. Bert Davis notes that he recently placed an executive at a professional publishing company who turned down offers from two startups that offered more money, but which also meant extensive travel. Even as publishers look to develop new programs, such as in-house training, mentoring and educational development, many acknowledge that they will always be dependent on people who have a love of books. There are still plenty of students coming out of college who aren't just looking for stock options. Subscribe Copyright 2000.