How to Find a Publishing Internship in New York
New York City is home to many publishing companies, as well as internship opportunities. To find a publishing internship in New York, you will need to begin networking. Although some publishing companies may advertise their internships, many do not. Do not be discouraged if you cannot find an internship opportunity online. You will need to properly network to get your foot in the door.
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Instructions
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Network with a Professor or Guidance Counselor
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Talk to a college professor or guidance counselor to get recommendations for publishers based in New York City. Already knowing about available internship opportunities will give you a head start on your search. Your professor may even have contact information for hiring managers of these companies. Have your professor write a letter of recommendation that presents your work ethic and promotes your skills.
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Make a list of at least five internship opportunities or recommendations that you received from your guidance counselor or professor, and write individual cover letters to each of the five publishing companies.
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Thoroughly research the five companies and their internships. Learn about the company's location, history, employees and books. Research who the hiring manager of the company is and get that person's contact information. Take notes on each company and save the information on your computer in a folder called "Internships."
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4
Write a custom cover letter to each of the five publishing companies. Explain your interest in interning at the company. Make the letter be a sales pitch, and emphasize how the publisher will benefit from having you as an intern. Mention your writing portfolio and discuss a few samples of your work. Discuss your accomplishments rather than simply the skills you have learned in a classroom. Consider yourself as applying for a full-time job at the company, not only for internship. Close the letter by asking for a face-to-face interview or a phone interview if you do not live in New York City.
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Email the cover letter, your resume, and your letters of recommendation to the publishing companies. Be sure to send the correct cover letter to the right company. Focusing on five companies at a time will help you stay organized and keep track of the status of your applications.
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Submit a follow-up letter one week after you have emailed your resume. This will show that you are an interested and serious applicant.
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Tips & Warnings
Internships may or may not be a paid position. Be aware of your financial situation and your need for an income while searching for an internship.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit writing book image by AGphotographer from Fotolia.com
