Back in August we wrote an article for Publishing Perspectives, noting the incredibly difficult situation that most graduates find themselves in when simply trying to gain a toe-hold in the publishing industry:

“The dilemma is a simple one. Without having prior experience you cannot find a job. Yet without finding a job you cannot gain experience. Without which, of course, you cannot find a job. Which is in a way impressive; I don’t think many envisage graduating university only to be blocked from further progression by logical paradox.”

Since then, we’ve been working on a way of helping the next generation of writers and publishing specialists who will produce the great books of tomorrow. We realize that for many, traditional models can seem dauntingly impenetrable and an unpaid work placement in London is not an option. That’s why we have now launched our mentorship programme, aimed specifically at those who are unable to apply for work experience in the capital.

At the heart of the programme is the opportunity to work remotely with the Publisher of Profile Books (Daniel Crewe). The mentorship will run for a month, during which time the successful applicant will have the chance to gain insights into the early stages of publishing and to develop a range of editorial skills, including:

• reader’s reports and responses to submissions
• editorial reports on manuscripts
• researching possible authors and ideas for new titles
• copywriting

We will be looking for candidates with a demonstrable interest in editing and relevant experience. Interested applicants should send a CV to whitefox [email protected], with a covering letter outlining why they are interested in the programme and what they will bring to it, in terms of skills, ideas and experience.

Shortlisted applicants will be asked to perform a brief copyediting test before a final selection is made.

We will also be offering the opportunity of remote work experience with whitefox as an editorial reader. Here, you’ll have the chance to take a first look at manuscripts that come to us, often from literary agents. Before they are sent to edit, we’ll ask you to read through and provide a brief editorial report on the book as well as, in some instances, a full or partial line edit. After the book has been professionally edited, we will feedback on your work and share the final edit.

Finally, we do offer traditional work experience, for those who are able to spend a week or two in London. Please get in touch via email at [email protected] with a CV and a covering letter telling us which opportunity you are interested in, and why.

The deadline for applications is November the 15th. Good luck!