Top tips for getting into publishing
Working in publishing is an interesting, creative and worthwhile career, and as such it's competitive to get in. Here's our advice:
Don't work for free
We don't believe that anyone should work for nothing, which is why we never ask for 'publishing experience' for entry-level jobs. Lots of publishers offer paid internships and graduate schemes. Working in a bookshop is brilliant (and relevant) experience. You can also sign up with a temp agency that specialises in publishing roles.
Get to know your way round different departments
Whilst editorial is probably the best-known role in publishing, there are loads of other options that you might not even know existed. Find out about the different roles and teams at Usborne.
Join the Society of Young Publishers
The Society of Young Publishers (SYP) is a UK membership organisation dedicated to helping those wanting to get into, or get ahead in, the publishing industry. Membership is open to anyone of any age who is aspiring to work in publishing or is within the first ten years of their career. The SYP has six regional committees running events throughout the UK and Ireland, and publishes a quarterly magazine.
Keep an eye on The Publishers' Association
The Publishers' Association website is a great place to find information on schemes including Work in Publishing Week and the Publishing Assistant Apprenticeship. They also have a jobs board.
Follow the Independent Publishers Guild
Take a look at the IPG website to find out what's going on in the world of independent publishers including events, job vacancies and their Meet the Member blogs which give a glimpse into a range of publishing companies. You can also sign up to their ‘Working in Publishing’ newsletter.
Read The Bookseller magazine
If it's happening in the book industry, you can read about it in trade magazine The Bookseller.
Sign up with a temping agency
There are several agencies which specialise in hiring temporary staff for publishers. They will be able to help you find paid work in lots of different roles which will be great experience and might even lead to a permanent position.
Work as a bookseller
Lots of people who work in publishing start their careers as booksellers. Working in a bookshop provides invaluable experience, helping you to understand what works in the marketplace.
Get social
Twitter is a great place to follow publishers, publishing organisations, authors, illustrators, book bloggers, and more. #publishingjobs is a good place to start, and do tweet us @Usborne!
As Usborne is based in the UK we've recommended organisations that we know and work with. If you're based elsewhere around the world, trying searching for a local publishers' association where you are.
Good luck!