Foreword
A foreword is an introductory section at the beginning of a book, typically written by someone other than the book's author. It's often written by an expert, celebrity, or well-known person in the field who can add credibility to the book. In publishing jobs, you might see this term when candidates have either written forewords for books or have managed the process of obtaining and editing forewords from contributors. This is different from a preface or introduction, which are usually written by the book's author.
Examples in Resumes
Secured and edited Foreword from Michelle Obama for bestselling leadership book
Wrote Foreword for three industry-leading textbooks on marketing
Managed relationships with thought leaders to obtain compelling Forewords for business book series
Typical job title: "Publishing Professionals"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Publishing Professionals
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you determine the right person to write a foreword for a book?
Expected Answer: Should discuss evaluating the book's target audience, identifying potential foreword authors whose credibility would resonate with readers, and managing the outreach and relationship-building process with high-profile contributors.
Q: How do you handle a situation where a commissioned foreword doesn't meet quality expectations?
Expected Answer: Should explain diplomatic approaches to requesting revisions, maintaining professional relationships, and having backup plans or alternative contributors in place.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What elements make a strong foreword?
Expected Answer: Should mention personal connection to the subject matter, credibility of the foreword author, compelling endorsement of the book's value, and appropriate length and tone.
Q: How do you manage the timeline for obtaining a foreword in the publishing schedule?
Expected Answer: Should discuss building adequate time into the schedule, coordinating with busy contributors, and having contingency plans for delays.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between a foreword, preface, and introduction?
Expected Answer: Should explain that a foreword is written by someone other than the author, while a preface and introduction are typically author-written, with different purposes for each.
Q: How would you format and prepare a foreword for publication?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of standard formatting, placement in the book's front matter, and basic editing processes.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic editing and proofreading
- Understanding of book front matter components
- Communication with authors and contributors
- Project coordination
Mid (2-5 years)
- Relationship management with authors
- Content development
- Timeline management
- Quality assessment of submissions
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic contributor selection
- High-profile relationship building
- Complex project management
- Industry networking
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of publishing industry standards
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of attention to detail
- No experience with editorial processes
Related Terms
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