Publishing is a competitive industry, and getting a foot in the door can be challenging but possible. It’s also important to keep in mind that publishing is bigger than just editorial. Many people mistakenly think publishing is all about writing and editing, but that’s simply not the case. Publishing is a diverse and dynamic industry covering everything from typesetting and design to marketing and promotions. 

So, if you long to find a publishing job, make sure you know what area you’re most suited to before you start knocking on doors (digital or otherwise)! Do you have desktop publishing and design skills? Perhaps your strengths lie in editing and proofreading? You can break into the publishing industry with persistence, whatever your skillset. 

10 Types of Publishing Jobs 

There are typically five main areas of publishing, including writing and editorial; production; sales and distribution; and marketing and advertising. The following are some of the most common roles in the publishing industry.

Editor 

An editor’s primary role is to prepare content for publishing or production. An editor will obtain and review manuscripts and review them for market potential in line with the publishing house criteria. 

Copy Editor 

A copy editor is responsible for proofreading copy before publishing to ensure work is free of errors. One of the most crucial publishing jobs, copyeditors work closely with book editors to review manuscripts. 

Publisher 

In the publishing industry, a publisher is responsible for the daily operations of the publishing company. The role is crucial to the company’s editorial and commercial goals. Publishers establish publishing criteria, identify target markets, oversee manuscript and rights acquisitions, sales and marketing activities, and budget and production processes. 

Literary Agent

Literary agents search for books to be published. They’re responsible for sourcing new literary talent in the publishing industry. Their role requires finding promising authors, promoting books to editors, and receiving a commission on the sale.

Publicist

In publishing, a publicist works for a publishing company to attract press attention for books and authors. Publicists work directly with authors and agencies, pitch books and build relationships with reviewers, media outlets and websites. 

Marketers and/or Copywriters 

If you’re looking for a publishing job that requires writing, then marketing and copywriting might be the best fit for you. These publishing jobs are responsible for creating press releases, media kits, campaigns and catalogues that showcase books and authors.

Sales Positions 

Sales positions in publishing require excellent communication skills and collaboration with marketing and editorial departments. The role is responsible for closing book sales and being an expert on various books, titles and authors. 

Graphic Designer

A graphic designer is a publishing job focusing on creating visual content using digital and print processes. Responsibilities include designing book layouts, covers and jackets and marketing and promotional materials for publishing houses. 

Illustrator 

Illustrators working in a publishing house are responsible for drawing and creating visual artwork for digital and print publications and marketing and advertising collateral. Illustrators work with authors to create an art style, drafts and illustrations using software programs and physical tools of the trade.

Production Manager 

A production manager, often referred to as a production editor, oversees and coordinates the publishing production process. Responsibilities include making sure manuscripts are edited, designed, and printed to meet schedules and deadlines. Production managers commonly hire and supervise staff, including copy editors and proofreaders. 

5 Ways to Find a Publishing Job 

While a degree can make you an attractive candidate for a publishing job, it’s certainly not a requirement to find entry-level roles in the publishing industry. So, if you’re interested in publishing, even shorter online courses in publishing can give you the edge you need to compete for entry and mid-level positions. So, how do you get started in publishing? The following five ways can help you get a foot in the door.

1. Apply for internships

Internships have replaced many trainees or apprenticeship models in creative industries such as journalism and publishing. So, don’t discount the value of an internship for the experience that leads to permanent employment. If you can, learn as much as you can in the short time, you’re interning and try to get experience in all areas and roles in the publishing company. It’s also helpful to add this experience to your resume and ask for a referee supervising your internship to be included as someone who can vouch for your work.

2. Learn publishing programs 

Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator are just a few of the programs that publishers value when hiring entry-level employees. If you would like to secure a graphic design and illustration position, training in these areas is particularly important to securing a publishing job. 

3. Build your digital skills

Social media and digital skills training courses help you gain the knowledge you’ll need in the publishing role. If you’re keen to secure a publishing job in the copywriting, marketing and advertising areas of publishing, a short course that improves social and digital media skills is a must. 

4. Enrol in publishing courses

You don’t need a degree in publishing to get your foot in the door at a publishing house, but a short professional development course in publishing will improve your chances of securing an entry-level position. Australian Online Courses have three courses in publishing, including the Certificate of Publishing – Writing for Children; Certificate of Publishing – Commercial Non-Fiction; and Certificate of Publishing – Adult Fiction.

5. Show you’re passionate about publishing. 

If you’re serious about finding a publishing job, it’s crucial to show your enthusiasm for the publishing industry. Read widely and research all the top publishing houses in your area. You should also join writer’s festivals, writing groups or indie start-ups that show your passion for publishing – it will set you apart when it comes to securing your dream role in publishing. 

You will have more success finding a publishing job if you are persistent and create opportunities for yourself. If you’d like to explore publishing as a career option, enrol in one of our online publishing courses. 

You can start studying for your future in publishing today with access to helpful support staff and knowledgeable tutors.