Spare Zoom Project: FAQs
The Spare Zoom Project offers a unique opportunity for hopeful or early-career book trade professionals to connect with professionals through half-hour Zoom discussions, sharing insights and guidance about the industry.
MENTORS
Q: I work in the book industry and would love to share my insights. What do I do?
A: Click here to sign up as a potential mentor (no firm commitment is required!)
Q: I am very busy at the moment, but I would like to take part in SZP at a later date. Shall I still sign up?
A: Yes – you are under no obligation to accept the pairing, and, if you do, you are encouraged to arrange the call at a time that suits both you and the mentee.
Q: How much time do I have to commit?
A: The SZP call should last approximately 30 minutes. You are not obliged to give any more time than this (beyond making the arrangements for the meeting).
Q: How do you connect mentors and mentees?
A: We try to connect people based on shared interest, although that isn’t always possible. We then reach out to both parties and put you in touch – it’s then over to both of you to arrange the time and date of the call.
MENTEES
Q: How do I sign up for the scheme?
A: Click here to register your interest in the scheme.
Q: Is the Spare Zoom Project a mentorship scheme?
A: No. This is a one-time match with a professional already working within the publishing industry. Think of this more as a friendly chat over a coffee rather than a structured mentorship.
Q: Will taking part mean that I will be offered an interview, or job?
A: We can’t guarantee the outcome of your SZP pairing, but it is not something that should directly lead to a job interview. The aim of the project is to share insights and guidance about the early stages of your career, and to connect you with a friendly face in the industry, rather than directly lead to work or work experience.
Q: How do you connect mentors and mentees?
A: We try to connect people based on shared interest, although that isn’t always possible. We then reach out to both parties and put you in touch – it’s then over to both of you to arrange the time and date of the call.
Q: How quickly will I be matched with someone?
A: Our Spare Room/Zoom Project Officer tries to match you up with someone from our professional list. The speed of this is dependent on a number of factors including the response rate of professionals. Please stick with us as we find someone, then once you are connected it is up to you to respond promptly and organise the Zoom call with the mentor.
Q: How much do I need to put in my application?
A: If you can be as specific as possible in terms of what you would like to talk about, this helps us match you up with someone who works in your area of interest. Noting which department/s you are interested in is a big help.