Over the past few months, I’ve become pretty well-versed in the art of Job Hunting. By now I have everything from thank you notes to the perfect answer to “what’s your weakness” down pat. I also know that a Major Publishing House could care less why I want to work for them. Of course I do. They’re a Major Publishing House and every bookworm on the planet wants to work for them. So here are ten reason why they should want me:
1. Initiative is coming out of my ears. Case in point? Facebook ads, Twitter, this blog, networking, freelancing with HarperCollins involving new and creative ways to market books… I’ve been able to use social media to brand myself and get my name out there as a someone “going places”.
I think I was 3... notice the newspaper is sideways
2. I love books. But what prospective publishing employee doesn’t? The thing is, when I love something, I don’t let it go. Case in point? My thesis. A project that should have started in January 2009 actually began the summer before for the simple reason of loving it so much. When I work on something I love, I really work. And that’s how I feel about books and am perfectly happy living and breathing them to go beyond the call of duty.
3. I have ideas. Publishing is in an interesting phase. There is a scary possibility of the industry crashing and burning and it needs people working to make sure the book world lives to see another day. I am the perfect person to help do that. Now, I can’t give away the goods here, but let’s just say I’ve had more than one offer to help certain imprints (and PR firms) in a freelance capacity, despite hiring freezes. I see so many possibilities out there that have yet to be taken advantage of!
4. I’m organized. I recognize that whatever job I take wont be ideas/initiative/passion/rainbows all the time. I appreciate that people more important than me need to get more important things done. Which is where my incredible skills mailing press packs, managing clipping services and organizing databases will be an asset and some serious weight off your more important shoulders.
5. My mind is an open book. I went to Davidson for crying out loud… I love to learn. People keep asking why I want to go into publishing and what I’m most excited about. The answer? Being a part of what goes on behind the scenes and watching people do what they do best. I’ve learned a ton from every job and am able to use that to my advantage.
6. I get the job done. Fast. And well. Really well. I started my campaign 19 days ago and check out what I’ve accomplished:
- Two days after my ad was put up I had an article about me on the HarperStudio blog.
- One week later I had a freelance job. One week after that I had another.
- Within that time frame I designed and published two websites (never having done it before).
- In less than a week have accumulated over 100 followers on Twitter – everyone from major publishing houses to book reviewers to agents.
7. This one’s my favorite: I have never – not once – let an employer down. Let me say that again: every single person I have worked for has written me a letter of recommendation. Take a look at the references tab on my website. “Indispensable”, “valuable” and “fortunate to have her work for me” are just a few examples of my contributions.
8. I know the industry. I’ve made it my job to know about what goes on in publishing. Every day I research the latest news, subscribe to all the newsletters, read the newest books and am on top of all the blogs.
9. I’m a research genius. I can find anything on the web, guaranteed. I’ve just finished putting together a serious database for theglasshammer.com, researching potential partners, subscribers, and event invitees. Also, refer to number 2… I spent over a year on my thesis and surveyed 3,000 women. Did I mention I got an A?
10. I’d like to think I’m easy to get along with. I’ve been described as “a pleasure to work with”, but also love people, stay calm under pressure, and take constructive criticism as an excuse to grow. The Executive Director of the Actors Studio called me “cheerful without being annoying”. Kind of funny in a letter of recommendation, but come on, you totally know those people.
Not convinced? Email me and tell me why.
