Celebrating Work in Publishing Week: Insights, resources & interview tips

Work in Publishing Week is a time to celebrate the many paths into publishing and we break minimise barriers to entry, encouraging diverse audiences to consider a career in this exciting sector. At Creative Access, we’re committed to providing resources that empower the next generation of publishing professionals. Below, we’ve curated a selection of expert advice from recent resources, ideal for your prep stage when applying for an opportunity all the way through to taking part in an impressive interview in the publishing world.

If you’re heading into a publishing interview, understanding the tools that underpin the industry is crucial. A key takeaway from our webinar with Penguin Random House is the importance of tech proficiency, especially tools like Biblio, which streamline workflows and manage content efficiently. Demonstrating an understanding of publishing software and how it enhances the publishing process can set you apart in an interview. Watch the full webinar here.

Publishing rights play a pivotal role in protecting and distributing intellectual property. For interviewees, knowing the ins and outs of these rights—such as the difference between territorial rights and subsidiary rights—can show you have a strong grasp of industry fundamentals. As Penguin Random House UK experts point out, a solid understanding of how publishing rights impact book sales and international deals will make you a standout candidate. Read more on publishing rights here.

Thinking about a career switch? If you’re coming from another field, focus on the transferable skills you bring to publishing. Key advice from industry professionals shows that whether you’re coming from marketing, sales, or another creative industry, skills like project management, communication, and adaptability are highly valued. Be ready to articulate how these skills can be leveraged in publishing. Learn more about pivoting into publishing here.

Landing your first job in publishing requires preparation, and knowing what to expect is key. A helpful tip from our webinar with Penguin Random House is to highlight your passion for books, but also demonstrate awareness of the practical aspects of the industry. Understanding the various roles—whether editorial, marketing, or rights—will showcase your broad interest and enthusiasm for the field. Watch the webinar for more insights here.

Publishing isn’t just about writing books—it’s about telling stories in many formats. If you’re interviewing for a role outside of traditional editorial, be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to storytelling through marketing, design, or digital platforms. An essential piece of advice is to showcase your creativity in how you communicate narratives, whether in print or online. This can be a great way to stand out for roles in marketing, sales, or even digital content creation. Explore storytelling careers here.

If you’re interviewing for a sales role, understanding the intersection between sales, marketing, and editorial departments is crucial. The key takeaway from this “Career in Focus” article is to show an understanding of how sales drive the success of a book. Be ready to discuss how you can effectively pitch books, build relationships with booksellers, and manage accounts to boost sales. These insights demonstrate that you understand the business side of publishing as well as the creative side. Get tips on publishing sales here.

With these insights and resources, you’ll be better equipped to ace any interview in publishing. Whether you’re transitioning from another industry or diving into publishing for the first time, these pearls of wisdom will help you confidently navigate the interview process. Explore these resources and more to continue developing your understanding of the industry and strengthen your career trajectory.

Head to our opportunities board to see live publishing roles, internships and opportunities!