|
|
Monster: What made you want to be an Editorial Assistant?
Nicola: I have known from an early age that I wanted to work in the written media because I have always read a lot and I wanted to combine my personal hobbies with my career in order to enjoy my work. However, I didn¹t know whether I wanted to work for a newspaper, magazine or book publishing company.
When I finished university, where I studied English, I worked abroad for a daily newspaper and although I loved it, I felt like I would prefer to work for a weekly or monthly publication, because I would be more satisfied with the work that I produced. So, in working for magazines, Editorial Assistant is the first role to take.
What skills and education are essential to your job?
I think that most publishing companies today would not consider a candidate for this role unless they had a good degree and without one there seems little opportunity for progress within the field. In addition, although excellent writing skills are not exclusive to graduates, the qualification should guarantee a certain standard.
Obviously, an eye for detail, spelling and grammar skills are essential and are tested at interview stage. An ability to be socially at ease and friendly with all sorts of people is necessary for the PR side of the work and the role would not be suitable for someone shy or grumpy!
What advice can you offer someone wanting to become an Editorial Assistant?
Get as much work experience as you can. This is the sort of job, especially in the hair, beauty and celebrity realms, that when a vacancy becomes open many people will think “that sounds fun, I’ll go for it”. You need to make yourself stand out from other candidates as a person who is specifically driven in this direction.
Furthermore, it can be one of those industries where who you know is important so work experience helps you to make contacts. Finally, take every opportunity to write that you can, whether paid or for free you need to start building a portfolio of work as early as possible.
What are the best and worst things about your role?
It is fantastic to write for a national publication on a daily basis and gives a real sense of pride. Plus, the PR and social side can be great fun ¬ it is the sort of job where you will find yourself thinking “I can’t believe I am paid for this!”
But, as the lowest role on the ladder, admin tasks often fall to the Editorial Assistant and that isn¹t much fun. Like in any other desirable industry, the pay is much less than I could be earning at the same level in another sector.
Are there any perks to the job?
We have a constant supply of hair products to test and use and there are regular (weekly) events to be attended with champagne, celebrities and delicious food!
What is the end goal in your career?
To be a freelance magazine writer ¬ I’m looking to establish myself enough over the years so that when I am older I can choose what I write and have the freedom of being freelance.
Finish this sentence. "This week I have been mostly..."
“…frantically writing pages before deadline and dealing with a backlog of emails from my inbox.”
Fancy following in Nicola's footsteps? Check out our latest Editorial Assistant jobs. |
|
 |
