Getting into the publishing industry isn't easy, but Reedsy has resources that can help you prepare for and find a job. While you’ll need to make a lot of effort yourself, support like this can keep you going and give you direction.
The resources below should guide you as you build experience, confidence, and a strong CV. Use them all productively and watch your publishing career bloom.
1. Starting Your Career in Publishing
The first steps are the hardest, especially if you don’t know what to do or who to turn to. Reedsy offers tips on working as an editor and proofreader, as well as where to look for job opportunities.
Advice on Editing and Proofreading Work
With Reedsy’s helpful resources, you can learn everything from the difference between proofreading and copy editing to what rates you should set for your services.
Start with Reedsy’s guide to becoming a proofreader and work your way up to its guide to becoming an editor. While reading and expanding your knowledge of the professions, decide:
- What sector to focus on—books, magazines, academic papers, etc.
- Whether to freelance or not
- What clients should expect from you
- Which skills you need to develop
Finding a Job
Once you know what you want to do, start looking for work. If you’re aiming for very specific roles and locations, Reedsy’s guide to NYC editorial assistant jobs is full of relevant tips. You can follow its example when exploring other careers.
The platform can also help with a wider search for in-house and freelance opportunities. The websites Reedsy suggests for book publishing jobs are the perfect place to start. Check out the resources, one by one.
2. Getting Experience as a Volunteer
Previous experience is invaluable to employers. It means that you have some sense of what publishing jobs demand and proven interest in the field. To help with that, Reedsy has two services you can join on a voluntary basis and gather useful editorial skills.
Review Books on Reedsy Discovery
Working in publishing isn’t just about evaluating and producing books. Ideally, you should also be able to fix narrative problems, give constructive feedback, and see where a book fits in the current market.
As a reviewer, you’ll learn to read critically, give feedback, and build your awareness of the current literary market. Become a successful reviewer on Reedsy Discovery, and you’ll understand the industry better, while building a CV to impress employers.
Judge for Reedsy’s Weekly Short Story Contest
Every Friday, Reedsy releases five prompts, sent in its newsletter and posted on the Reedsy Prompts page. Then, writers submit stories to win prize money and recognition.
What you can do is join the service by completing Reedsy’s application form for judges. You’ll learn to read fast and critically, while also making connections with writers and publishing professionals.
If you’re hoping to become a book editor, this experience as a contest judge will allow you to prove your ability to critically read and evaluate a piece of writing.
Find Your Place in the Publishing World
The publishing process is multi-faceted, so it’s best to narrow your focus on one key part and build skills there. Home in on something you enjoy and are naturally good at. Mastering proofreading and editing, for example, makes you an asset to any publisher.
Follow your instincts and use Reedsy’s resources to reach your potential, one that suits your abilities and benefits your chosen career. If you decide to branch out later, you’ll have a solid foundation to start from.