"The First Textbook for Section Chiefs" by Joe Sakai Published by Discover 21

"The First Textbook for Section Chiefs" was published on February 15 with a first printing of 5000, but with the fifth printing planned for March 13, total copies published will have reached 41,000.

Although it is not difficult to find books about management, it is unusual to find a work focused on middle management, detailing the many struggles at this level. The writer of the book, a businessman presently residing in Holland, reexamines Japanese business from an outside perspective with particular focus on the middle management positions, especially that of "section chief." This is an introductory book which describes exactly what the "job of section chief" entails, and what is required. "In order to maintain their drive, section chiefs need an outlet for all their pent-up frustrations," he concludes.

A spokesperson for Discover 21 stated, "this work first sparked interest on Internet bookstores sites when it was introduced though a series of well-known, influential blogs. On March 2, a book review ran in the Yomiuru Shinbun, which generated activity in bookstores throughout Japan. The Nikkei Shinbun also plans to publicize it at the end of March, and we are aiming at even more sales promotions in the future."

Bookstore-dan in Hamamatsucho, Osaka, notes, "we became aware of an increase in sales starting in March. From the beginning it was displayed on the shelves as a featured product and sold well. At present, it is being displayed in stacks in front of the bookcases because of a shortage of copies. Clientele is principally men in their 30's and 40's. Since this is the time of year for personnel transfers, individuals recently promoted to section chief are most likely purchasing the book."

According to the Sanseido's main bookstore in Jinbocho, Tokyo, "interest is not overwhelming, but copies have been selling steadily. Every day the book continues to move regularly. Discover 21 has a comparatively large number of good business publications, yet even among these the book is selling comparatively well. Readers may also be aware that the publisher is a reliable one. Since we would like to increase sales of this book, we are looking into ways to expand the point of sales."


*Some of the book titles are tentative translations.
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