Recruitment processes in 2010

The following report, commissioned by Oxford International Centre for Publishing Studies, may be of interest to mentors/students when thinking of strategies of applying for industry vacancies:

http://ah.brookes.ac.uk/resources/Recruitment-Research-finalReport2010.pdf

One quoted figure that stuck out for me: 69 people on average are applying for each position. I am involved in recruitment and selection, and for externally-advertised development editor/editorial assistant roles have never received such a high number of applicants as this (often in the 15 to 30 category). This can be discouraging for applicants, but it is worth remembering that the interview itself is good experience, and strong candidates are kept on file and in mind for future vacancies.

The increasing number of paid internships being offered by publishing companies is encouraging, and beneficial for both parties.

Meet the mentor | Richard Hart

Richard Hart established his own publishing company, Hart Publishing in Oxford, after a successful career as commissioning editor with OUP. Richard, Managing Director, has been mentoring a student whose aim is to establish their own publishing house providing academic and general interest books about Islam to the English-speaking Muslim community, as well as to the general interested reader. Richard has been advising the student on business start-up and establishing their publishing programme.

Richard has been of great support to the SYP in recent years: presenting a talk (on independent publishers competing with multinationals) at his offices; contributing to the annual careers conference; and now acting as a mentor. I have nothing but gratitude for his selfless contribution to publishing fellowship.

What makes a great publisher | Gordon Graham interview

Gordon Graham, to whom the SYP Mentoring Scheme is dedicated, has recently been interviewed on the subject of his career and what makes a great publisher.

http://thebibliofile.ca/legendary-gordon-graham-talks-about-his-career-and-what-makes-a-great-publisher

Happy New Year!

A belated Happy New Year to all SYP Mentors and Students.

As the 2010 Mentoring Scheme is now officially at an end, I will shortly be in touch with everybody involved to collect your feedback from the SYP Mentoring Scheme. Thank you all for your sterling input into the initiative.