It’s exciting to finally get to see the author’s book live and published, and to share in that joy, knowing you had a part in making their vision a reality.
Redjell Arcillas works as a project manager at Tellwell. He guides and assists authors throughout the publishing process – from their book submission to distribution. Redjell liaises with designers, editors, illustrators on behalf of the author and then, once the book is ready, distributes it so it can be purchased on various online platforms.
As a project manager, Redjell is part of every author’s publishing journey. His role is to bring to life the author’s work by making sure the cover is even better than the author envisioned, and the content of the book is ready for publication. Redjell considers the authors goals and works within their budget to produce a top-quality product.
Prior to Tellwell, Redjell worked at a large indie publishing company as a project manager.
1. What do you enjoy most about working with authors?
Working with authors is a great privilege. I enjoy being able to access their personal anecdotes during the writing process as well as seeing the progress of their work, especially after a series of recommendations. It’s exciting to finally get to see the author’s book live and published, and to share in that joy, knowing you had a part in making their vision a reality.
2. How would you describe your personality? What are your strengths?
I value success, achievement, and quality. This drives me in life and helps me push forward to keep improving myself. I believe the key to success is persistence. I don’t allow obstacles to stand in the way of my goals. I’m proud of my achievements and I’m grateful to be able to pass those opportunities on to my children.
3. What advice do you have for authors going through the publishing process?
First, trust the process, and know that no matter what, your book will be published. Second, know that your project manager will always be there for you. Third, always aim for a quality product rather than rush the publication of your book.
4. What is the most common misconception authors have about the self-publishing process?
I find many authors focus on marketing their book and pay less attention to the editing. When you do this, you miss out on improving your manuscript. You have to keep in mind that reviews will definitely affect the ability to successfully market your book. Neglecting editing before publishing your book is like offering readers something that is not worth reading at all. The professional publishing standard is to have very few spelling errors or grammatical mistakes. Reviewers can be brutal if they see too many of these errors. But they are also savvy enough to comment on plot lines, character arcs, pacing and the writing.
5. How has the coronavirus outbreak affected your life and your work?
It breaks my heart to think about how many people are fighting for their lives and how many have lost them. I worry about my parents and my children. I have been praying and relying on my faith for strength.
I’m fortunate to be able to work from home, and like many people, have been spending a lot of time indoors. I am spending a lot more time with my family, which is nice. I’ve also been reflecting a lot about life, and what truly matters.
6. With everything that is going on right now, how are you feeling, how are you doing?
My wife and I have been doing the best that we can to keep our four kids busy at home. As a parent, it is very difficult for us to limit our children from meeting friends, playing outside, and even asking us to go to the beach or buy them toys. We’ve been cooking together, doing arts and crafts, playing games and keeping home life vibrant and fun. It’s fun to be around kids. It makes you hopeful about a great future as soon as this passes.
7. What inspires you?
My family inspires me the most. Having been blessed with four adorable kids motivates me to continue to strive and give them the best life possible. When you become a parent, you begin to build more dreams not only for yourself but also for your children.
8. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I usually spend most of my time playing sports or going to the gym. In my neighborhood, there is usually a basketball or volleyball league to help keep me in shape. But since the pandemic started, my usual routine has shifted to sweating it out at home by doing household chores and chasing my energetic kids around.
9. What kind of books do you enjoy reading?
I enjoy quiet moments with a good book. I enjoy self-improvement books, whether it is business, leadership, motivational, history, or self-help. Recently, I’ve been reading leadership books by Simon Sinek. I find his insights very helpful since I’m a team lead at Tellwell and manage a group of project managers.
10. Do you have any recommendations in terms of tv shows, books, music, podcasts or any cool content you’ve come across recently?
With covid going on, I’ve been reading a lot about the Spanish Flu pandemic to understand what happened the last time the world faced a similar health crisis. I’ve been thinking about picking up Love in the Time of Cholera as well.
I find many authors focus on marketing their book and pay less attention to the editing. When you do this, you miss out on improving your manuscript. You have to keep in mind that reviews will definitely affect the ability to successfully market your book.
