How to Get a Job in Publishing

Breaking into publishing isn't always easy, but it is possible.

Working in the publishing industry certainly has a lot of perks. The industry itself is very broad, consisting of print and online publications. Print publications include magazines, journals, books, and more. Each publication typically requires writers, copy editors, production editors, typesetters, customer service, marketing experts, and more.

Obtaining a job in publishing requires a great deal of effort and education (much of which can be self-taught). While it is possible to obtain a job in publishing without a college degree, a Bachelors degree in English, Journalism, or a related field is recommended.

Above all, to succeed in publishing, you must be willing to accept less money than you could make in other fields because you truly love the industry and the idea of putting information and leisure material in front of readers.

Things You'll Need

• Resume Computer with internet connection Patience and persistence Bachelors Degree (recommended)

Instructions

Education, Background, and Networking

1. Commit to what you love. Many prospective publishing industry employees are talented writers, idealists, marketers, or grammarians. They tend to enjoy English and other language subjects in school. If you enjoy reading and the feeling of a book in your hand, or if you just like describing things, the publishing industry may be for you.

2. Attend school and select an appropriate major. Publishing industry candidates at the high school level should definitely consider attending college. A Bachelors Degree in English (BA) is usually preferred, though any college degree will prove helpful.

3. Consider an internship. If you want to work in the publishing industry, an internship is a must. This will also help you explore what type of publishing you'd like to do. Interns can work at a magazine, newspaper, traditional book publisher, or cutting edge SEO web company.

4. Use in-person and social networking sites to your advantage. Networking takes a lot of time, but it pays off. If you ever want to consider working for publishing companies as a freelance writer, it is necessary to know the right people. Social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook can help you as long as your profile is professional, but LinkedIn is the most valuable professional online resource at your disposal. Your local chamber of commerce can also put you in touch with the right people.

5. Think about your resume. If you do not have an internship or prior publishing experience, it should include relative classes taken, a short list of works published, or any activities and interests that could prove your interest in the publishing industry.

6. Consider further education. Some institutions offer advanced degrees in publishing, such as Rosemont College's English & Publishing program. This additional education is very beneficial for anyone wishing to pursue a career in publishing.

The Job Search

1. Have realistic expectations about the job search. Once you have the necessary skills, finding a job in publishing can still prove difficult. The competition is intense despite the variety of available positions within the industry. Expect a great deal of difficulty and adversity, and consider taking a long-term temporary position until you have luck in the publishing industry.

2. Break in to the industry using temp agencies. Temp agencies can be helpful for an entry level candidate looking for a publishing job. If not, they will likely have work for you until you land the job you are looking for. Many temp agencies even offer benefits for their employees.

3. Consider relocating if necessary. if you don't live near a large publishing company or a large city. New York City is the publishing hub in the United States, but other opportunities exist in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. When you are looking at available salaries (especially for entry level work), keep in mind that the cost of living is much higher in a city, especially New York.

4. Say yes to freelance work as often as possible. Even if a student asks for help editing a paper, you've made a new connection. Freelance work often leaves the door open for later work from the same person or company, and also allows them to recommend you to others. This could always lead to long term or full time work.

5. Apply consistently. Like any competitive job market, you'll need to search and apply for jobs on a daily basis.

6. Learn on your own. You can always study vocabulary, business language, specific fields of interest, proofing marks, and grammar on your own. You should also become familiar with industry style guides. MLA and APA styles are most useful.

Tips & Warnings

• Be persistent. Unlike other industries, you can't necessarily transition right into the publishing industry in one to three months. Publishing is competitive, and getting a job in publishing takes time.

• Be creative but professional. If you get an interview, be sure to express yourself, but don't go over the top just because you are in a creative environment.

Resources

• LinkedIn - Professional Networking
• Rosemont College - English & Publishing Program