2024 Publishing Ins and Outs with SYP North

Posted on February 14, 2024 in North, Uncategorized

You may have noticed a trend going around at the start of 2024 where people are sharing their ‘ins and outs’ for the year – whether it’s new habits they’re hoping to adopt or trends they’re hoping to steer clear of. To wrap up their year of being Digital Content Officers for SYP North, Eleanor and Laura have put together a list of their ins and outs specifically focused on the ever-evolving publishing landscape.

Ins

Remote/Hybrid Working Structures: With the rising cost of living and the advent of digital connectivity, the traditional office model is transforming. Publishing houses embracing remote or hybrid working arrangements mitigate the financial strain of commuting and foster inclusivity by tapping into talent pools across geographic regions.

Being Open-minded About Publishing Roles: The publishing journey often unveils unexpected passions and career trajectories. Remaining receptive to exploring various facets of the industry, from editorial to sales to production, can lead to fulfilling professional endeavors, even if they diverge from your initial aspirations.

Making Sure an Employer is the Right Fit for You: Beyond the allure of a job, it’s essential to scrutinize prospective employers for alignment with your long-term goals and values. Asking questions during interviews empowers candidates to assess factors like career progression, employee retention, and competitive compensation.

Reaching Out to Publishing Professionals: Navigating the pathways of publishing can feel daunting, but seasoned professionals are often willing to offer guidance and insights. Don’t hesitate to leverage their expertise for job-hunting strategies, CV refinement, and industry advice – they were once in your shoes.

Outs

Unpaid Internships: While internships serve as invaluable gateways into the publishing realm, the prevalence of unpaid positions raises ethical questions about fair compensation. Roles that offer tangible learning experiences and equitable pay are essential for fostering inclusivity.

Entry-level Jobs with Impossible Requirements: Entry-level positions with unrealistic expectations and meager salaries undermine the accessibility and sustainability of careers in publishing. Exploring alternative avenues within related fields can offer viable pathways for professional growth and fulfillment.

Burning Yourself Out While CV Building: The pressure to amass credentials and volunteer experiences can inadvertently lead to burnout and diminished passion. Recognising the value of meaningful engagement over sheer quantity is paramount for preserving enthusiasm and producing impactful work.

Viewing Every Publishing Hopeful as a Competitor: The notion of publishing as a cutthroat arena fosters an atmosphere of rivalry – comparisonitis is real! Embracing collaboration and community-building dismantles barriers to networking and creates a culture of support and camaraderie.

To delve deeper into SYP North’s 2024 Publishing Ins and Outs, make sure to check out Inside Publishing, where Eleanor and Laura discuss the above in more detail and share their own experiences.

You can follow SYP North on Instagram @syp.north and X @SYPNorth.