How to Write a Great SYP Volunteer Application

Joining the Society of Young Publishers (SYP) committee is an exciting opportunity for those passionate about the publishing industry. As a committee member, you’ll gain valuable experience, expand your network, and contribute meaningfully to a community of individuals looking to get INTO and AHEAD in publishing. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you write a standout application.

Why Join the SYP Committee?

Serving on the SYP committee can be a brilliant experience. You’ll develop many skills, connect with publishing professionals and hopefuls, and have a tangible impact on our completely volunteer-run organisation. Our branches are made up of enthusiastic individuals that are brimming with ideas and energy. We’re excited to see how you can contribute! As a volunteer you are also given complimentary membership during your year-long volunteering term with the SYP. You will have access to a variety of membership benefits (including a free InPrint magazine subscription, partner discounts, access to our jobs boards and so much more).

The Application Process: Blinding and Evaluation Criteria

At the SYP, we value fairness and inclusivity. To ensure an equitable review, all applications are blinded before they are assessed. This means that identifying information is removed, allowing the committee to evaluate each candidate based solely on their suitability for the role.

Each application is measured against three key criteria:

1. Knowledge of SYP – How well does the candidate understand the SYP’s mission, values, and impact within the publishing industry?
2. Passion for SYP Aims – How enthusiastic is the candidate about the goals of the SYP? This includes our broader aims to foster inclusivity, share knowledge broadly, and provide a welcoming network for those in their first ten years in publishing.
3. Competency for the Role – How capable is the candidate in terms of relevant skills and experience? We look for committee members who have the skillset to contribute effectively, whether in event planning, content creation, digital marketing, community engagement, or other relevant areas.

These criteria ensure that the selection process is impartial, focusing on what each candidate can bring to the SYP in terms of commitment, experience, and alignment with our values.

Crafting a Winning Application

Here are some key tips to make your application shine:

1. Understand the SYP’s Mission and Values

Before writing, spend time exploring the SYP’s mission and goals. We’re looking for candidates who align with our values of accessibility, diversity, and professional growth within the publishing community.

2. Showcase Relevant Experience and Skills

Whether you’re skilled in marketing, social media, event planning, or administration, let us know how your abilities will enhance the committee’s work. Don’t worry if you haven’t got direct experience in publishing, think about your transferable skills from any experience so far!

3. Express Your Passion for Publishing and SYP

Show us why you love publishing and why the SYP, in particular, is meaningful to you.

Tip: Avoid generic statements like “I love books.” Instead, share specific experiences or challenges you’re excited to tackle as an SYP committee member. This could be anything from promoting inclusivity in the industry to supporting digital initiatives for a modern audience.

4. Explain What You’ll Contribute – And What You’ll Gain

Tell us how you envision contributing to the SYP’s goals. This might mean leading an event series, creating digital content, or fostering member engagement. At SYP, all of our volunteers work collaboration within their branches and across branches so keep skills like communication and collaboration front of mind!

5. Be Concise and Clear

Our applications are short and simple with two questions asking for 100 word responses each. Be as clear as possible to use the word count effectively.

6. Think About Which Branch(es) You Would Like to Apply For

7 of our branches have applications open- Ireland, Oxford, London, Wales, North, South West, UK. The SYP UK Committee positions oversee the organisation and many UK committee roles involve leading cross-branch working groups. Individuals across the UK and Ireland can apply for these roles. If you live in one of the regional branches, you could also apply for one of their roles.

8. Take a Look At All the Role Descriptions!

At SYP, we have a massive variety of volunteer roles available from events to social media, inclusivity to mentorship. Explore the variety of roles available as you might find yourself interested in a role that you wouldn’t expect! Volunteering can be a chance to expand your current skillset, or try something new, so keep an open mind and remember that you can apply to two different volunteer roles. Please reach out to the regional or UK Chairs if you have any questions about any of the roles and we will be happy to answer them.

Ready to Apply?

We’re so happy that you’re considering a volunteer role with the SYP. This is a year-long commitment with regular committee meetings and cross-branch working group meetings throughout the year.

All SYP applications are reviewed by the incoming Branch Chairs, and all applicants will be contacted in advance of the Society of Young Publishers AGM on 19th January 2025.

Good luck, and we look forward to reading your application!