When first starting out you are going to need to obtain an entry-level position. That phrase is usually associated with low-paying, tedious jobs. That is not usually the case in publishing. Entry-level jobs in publishing are designed to give you a background in the work that will help guide you on your climb up the ladder. In publishing, entry-level positions are instrumental in the eventual success of any book or publication.
If you are fortunate enough to have made your decision about pursuing a career in publishing prior to graduating, you may be at a huge advantage. You should have been able to obtain internships, or possibly you have already had an entry-level position that gave you some background and experience in this industry. That will put you one leg up on everyone else and will also give you a better idea of what to expect when entering the industry full-time. Here are a few positions that you can consider:
- Production Assistant
The job of production assistant will expose you to things such as maintaining vendor files, reviewing and trafficking proofs, and completing various other administrative tasks for the production department.
- Publicity Assistant
The publicity assistant is probably one of the more interesting entry-level positions available. Even though you are coming in on the ground floor you are still likely going to be responsible for writing press releases and coordinating tours and book signings. While you also have to do general administrative tasks, being involved in the actual promoting of the events is a thrilling proposition, especially in the early stages of your career.
- Marketing Assistant
Much like the publicity assistant position, this entry-level job is extremely exciting. Though you may not be in the forefront as much, putting together the reports and strategies that are the backbone to the successful launch of any book or publication is quite satisfying. This is a great area to get involved in for those who have a creative knack. It is a niche of the industry that you should be able to be very successful in.
- Editorial Assistant
This is a position that will involve you in the nuts and bolts of the profession. One of the more distinguishable titles you can hold is editor in chief, and the position of editorial assistant lays the groundwork for your future. You will be reading and evaluating manuscripts that have been submitted by who could be the next great author. You will also be maintaining files from all aspects through publication. You will also be exposed to editorial meetings which will give you a general essence of how to properly control the content of a released publication.
To find out what opportunities are available in publishing, you will have to do a little research. The good news is that research is usually quite painless, and the Internet will present you with more information than you could have ever obtained so easily even ten years ago. You will want to be selective with where you go for information and try to stick with industry-specific job boards. This is where you will find the best opportunities with the most reputable companies.
One thing not mentioned yet is that you may possibly have to work for several companies in order to advance your career at the pace that you like. You may initially have to take a job with a smaller company whose advancement opportunities will be limited. However, the experience gained there is easily taken to jobs with larger publishing companies and they only hire individuals with some type of experience, whether an internship or a previous entry-level job. Regardless, expect to move around a little bit in order to move up.
As time passes, you will gain more experience and be much more rounded as you work your way through these positions. All of your hard work will eventually pay off and get you that dream position, be it editor in chief or the publicity agent in charge of launching the next great American novel. The payoff in this industry is like no other, as there is nothing like having a book that you were personally involved with turn into the local buzz on the street.
