How to Become an Editor for a Magazine or a Publishing Company
For every great writer there's usually an even greater editor not too far behind. Editors assume heavy responsibilities in the world of publishing: managing and ensuring the production of quality content. Experience is often the catalyst to an editor's progression and ultimate success. Here are some tips for journalists and other writers looking to enter this field.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Major in mass communications, journalism or English. Magazine and publishing houses often require some form of related education or work experience. Consider a publishing certificate or degree program if your goal is to secure a position at a major book publisher. Harvard University offers a 32-credit hour certificate program in Publishing and Communications. Obtaining necessary credentials will help you secure employment.
-
2
Hone your skills. Take advantage of every opportunity to write while pursuing a degree or completing relevant coursework. College newspapers or magazines provide opportunities for students seeking to gain writing credentials. These are student-operated publications, so apply for a staff writer or editor position. Working for literary journals is another option. Accrue as many writing samples as possible.
-
-
3
Seek internships. Internships provide valuable on-the-job training for future editors. Contact your college career office to locate magazine or publishing company internships. Random House, a major book publisher, offers a summer internship. Interns may work paid or unpaid positions during the summer or throughout the year. Internships, paid or unpaid, may lead to future full-time positions.
-
4
Think entry-level. No one starts at the top of the career ladder, especially in publishing. Tennille Robinson and Annya Lott, both editors at Black Enterprise Magazine, started as editorial assistants/researchers. Robinson now serves as small business editor and Lott as careers editor. Random House also offers an Associates Program for recent graduates interested in publishing careers. Use such entry-level positions as opportunities for future mobility.
-
5
Network. Make as many industry contacts as possible. Attend workshops, befriend a well-connected professor, or simply maintain contact with your internship supervisor.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consider freelance opportunities. Freelance writing provides ample opportunities to add to your resume, collect writing samples and sharpen your skills. Broaden your horizons. Don't limit yourself to one field/genre of writing. Start as a beat reporter at a newspaper, or work as a desk assistant/copy writer at a broadcast station. Robinson worked as a desk assistant at a New Orleans television news station prior to joining Black Enterprise. Lott worked as a state house reporter for the Daily Hampshire Gazette in Boston. You never know what opportunities may come as a result of your broader experiences.
