I took time out before and after my degree to travel and would love to use my experiences by working for a guidebook publisher. How can I convince them to give me a go?
Most people who work for travel publishers have travelled extensively, so you can't rely on that alone to make you desirable. These complex organisations employ editors, cartographers, administrators, PR staff, sales executives, accountants and web designers. Where would you see yourself fitting in?
For your application to have credibility, an understanding of the business is crucial. Without it you can't make the sort of focused application that merits serious consideration. Find out all you can about different publishers and target those whose approach you admire. Be clear about why you feel they stand out from the rest and even more precise about how you can contribute to their ongoing success.
If your interest is in writing about travel, be aware that most guidebook authors are freelancers. They usually start by updating existing books, then doing chapters before working on whole books. It means a nomadic lifestyle, working long, anti-social hours and meeting very tight deadlines.
Any hint that you see it as an cheap way of having a good time travelling will scupper your chances. It's essential to have examples of how good you are. Travel writing competitions are one way of acquiring proof; even if you don't win you can always use your entry as evidence of ability.
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