How to break into publishing - essential tips from Pan Macmillan insiders
Work in Publishing Week is a national campaign to inspire people into getting involved in the publishing industry, aimed in particular at the 16+ age range. To mark the campaign, we will be sharing a number of articles helping to de-mystify the industry and advise those wanting to become a part of it on how best to start their career in publishing.
The publishing industry is a huge part of the UK economy, contributing a staggering £11 billion and supporting 84,000 jobs in total. Still, breaking into this world can feel intimidating, and it remains competitive. How do you stand out in applications and interviews? How can you make it clear that you’re the right fit for this company?
I’m a third-year university student who worked as a communications intern at Pan Macmillan over the summer, and it’s been amazing to see how the company operates and learn from my colleagues. To sum up my experience here, and hopefully help someone else on the same boat I was when I was applying for summer internships, I’ve gathered advice from people around the business in different roles, ages and teams on how to break into the brilliant world of books.
Phase 1: Perfecting your application
The consensus is clear: Research and tailor. Generic applications go nowhere.
- Tailor everything: Kayelle Danyluk, Head of Talent Acquisition, insists: "Tailor your CV/cover letter to each role you are applying to... Hiring managers look to recruit people genuinely interested in the area/imprint."
- Proofread meticulously: Melissa Bond, Editorial Manager, stresses that your CV and cover letter are your first chance to showcase your "confident grasp of language and your ability to self-edit." Keep them concise—ideally one page for entry-level roles.
- Be specific to the list: Mike Harpley, Pan Non-Fiction Publisher, advises: "Do research on the publisher and the role and mention the existing list in your application." Similarly, Publishing Director Georgina Morley warns against listing unrelated favorites: "If you're applying for a job with a literary list, don't only list your favourite romantasy authors."
- Show business acumen: Jon Mitchell, Rights Director, looks for commercially minded candidates who have clearly "done their research." He emphasises that a brilliant CV isn't enough; the cover letter must show you know Pan Macmillan, its authors, and the industry.
Phase 2: Demonstrating passion and experience
You don't need a "perfect" background, but you do need to frame your experience effectively and show true engagement.
- Every job is relevant: Becca Souster, Audio Sales & Strategy Manager and a Bookseller Rising Star, shares her secret: "It’s not about having the ‘perfect’ background, it’s about showing how your experience has prepared you for the role." Frame skills from bar work, retail, or other jobs (e.g., communication under pressure, attention to detail) to match the role's needs.
- Leverage digital knowledge: Content Marketing Manager Carol-Anne Royer was successful because she had a "successful TikTok account and a passion for books that thrive on BookTok." Use your knowledge of social media trends and communities to your advantage.
- Get hands-on experience: Kayelle Danyluk notes that experience as a bookseller is valuable. Mike Harpley agrees, suggesting any demonstrable interest is a plus, from a paid internship or bookselling to a blog or BookTok presence.
- Network tenaciously: Senior Communications Executive Kieran Sangha believes strongly in networking. "Look out for online communities, groups, forums that also offer in-person meet ups to share experience and advice." Always have a question prepared and follow up (within reason).
Phase 3: Standing out at interview
Preparation is key to turning nerves into confidence.
- Prep, prep, prep: Becca Souster's biggest interview advice is simple: "prep, prep, prep." Use the STAR method to prepare relevant examples, as advised by Melissa Bond, so you can "directly link your existing abilities to your potential to contribute to team success."
- Articulate why this role: Melissa Bond says to ensure you articulate your enthusiasm for that particular publisher or role—not just a general love of books.
- Know the Market (especially sales): For sales roles, Becca Souster says to "make sure you’re up to speed on the bestseller lists (the Amazon chart is key)." For any role, Mike Harpley reminds you: "publishing is a business, so a keen awareness of the market... is important too."
Design-specific tips (From Macmillan Children’s Books art director Chris Inns)
- Be Targeted: Research the publishers and know their publishing "inside out."
- Tailor your portfolio: Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Select pieces most relevant to the role.
- Be selective: Focus on quality, not quantity. A concise array of strong work is better than one that loses impact.
- Stay current: Keep up with the latest trends and be ready to discuss them from a commercial perspective.
Persistence is power
Kayelle Danyluk stresses: "Don't give up! It's understandable that it can be discouraging... but we often hire people that have been through multiple recruitment processes with us."
If you’re currently reading this while drowning in applications, I just want to say that I see you - and best of luck to you!
- by Ara Kim
