Book editor

Jo loves books and writing and has even drafted her first novel. How does she become a book editor? I am very grateful to Belinda Yuille, managing editor of HarperCollins Publishers Australia for taking time out to provide some advice for Jo and other inspiring book editors.

“Most editors begin their careers in publishing as publishers’ assistants and they then apply to become trainee editors as vacancies arise,” Ms Yuille explained.

“I expect an editor to have the following attributes: excellent general knowledge, a superior knowledge of English grammar, the ability to spell and punctuate, and boundless patience and tact. Latin, Italian or French to HSC level would be an advantage, as would neat handwriting,” she said.

“Most editors today will have completed a degree in Arts or Science or Communications or Law, and some will also have worked as a bookseller, teacher, librarian or journalist.”

“We don’t expect a publisher’s assistant or trainee editor to have a
formal editing qualification, but we do expect them to be addicted to
reading (including newspapers), to have commonsense, natural curiosity, good personal skills and a willingness to do basic tasks cheerfully and accurately. As part of the interview process, we test for general knowledge and spelling.

“If you decide to enrol in an editing course, please note that some
courses are more industry relevant than others, and most are costly.
Furthermore, there is no guarantee that passing a course will guarantee you a job as a publisher’s assistant or trainee editor,” Ms Yuille advised. Also recommended is a visit to the Australian Publishers Association website –  www.publishers.asn.au – where you will find information on careers in publishing under the “Home” tab as well as info on courses under Training.

By Kate Southam, Editor of careerone.com.au

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