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- Tasks: Join our team as a scouting trainee, exploring the world of publishing and evaluating manuscripts.
- Company: DSLS is a leading literary scouting agency connecting UK authors with international publishers.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities to attend major book fairs.
- Why this job: Dive into the exciting world of literary scouting and make impactful connections in publishing.
- Qualifications: Well-read, organised, and excellent communicators with a passion for literature are ideal candidates.
- Other info: This is a paid traineeship at £18,000 per annum, starting November 2017.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 18000 £ per year.
DSLS is offering the exciting opportunity for a recent graduate with an international outlook to join the team of scouts for one year, with a view to establishing a career in publishing. Literary scouting is one of the most exciting disciplines in publishing, but also one of the least well-known. We work with a host of international publishers from around the world in order to find the very best of UK fiction, non-fiction and children's books to be published in translation. Our overview of the UK market, its trends, and key agencies and publishing houses is unparalleled, so a scouting traineeship offers a fantastic opportunity to gain a strong understanding of the industry. The work is varied, fast-paced and requires a can-do attitude, an eye for detail and the ability to quickly process a high volume of information under pressure.
Programme details
Successful candidates will work at DSLS for one year as part of the programme. They will be trained to work alongside the team of scouts and will be able to have a real creative input, learning all about UK and international publishers, literary agents and translation rights. The position is a hands-on role, working with a variety of contacts in the UK and international publishing world and providing general support to our team of scouts. Candidates will be mentored by the company director for the duration of the traineeship.
The first few months of the programme will focus on preparations for the London Book Fair, which will provide the first opportunity for the successful candidates to develop contact with the international publishing world. The second half of the programme will focus on developing confident evaluation of manuscripts and reporting directly to clients, as well as preparing for the Frankfurt Book Fair - the annual key event in the international publishing world. Candidates will be given the opportunity to join the team of scouts at Frankfurt 2018, meet international publishers and the agency clients and explore the fair independently.
Requirements
Suitable candidates will be well-read, excellent communicators and highly-organised. We are looking for people with a can-do attitude, a curiosity to explore new areas, think outside the box and take initiative. Good knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook and strong general IT skills are essential. Foreign languages or a specific interest in children's books or non-fiction would be an advantage.
Candidates are paid £18,000 per annum. Successful candidates will start their traineeship in November 2017. If selected, you will be expected to commit to the entire 12-month period.
Application process
Please send a CV, meaningful covering letter and a two-page sample reader's report on a book that you have recently read, including a plot summary, a review and an assessment of its suitability for international markets. Applications should be sent via email, stating that you are applying for DSLS TRAINEE in your subject line, to the following address: office@schlingmann.co.uk. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are only able to get in touch directly with shortlisted candidates.
Daniela Schlingmann Literary Scouting Ltd - 12-month Scouting Traineeship employer: BookBrunch Limited
Contact Detail:
BookBrunch Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Daniela Schlingmann Literary Scouting Ltd - 12-month Scouting Traineeship
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in UK publishing and international markets. This knowledge will not only help you stand out during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role of a literary scout.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the publishing industry, especially those involved in literary scouting. Attend book fairs, literary events, or online webinars to make connections that could lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Develop your skills in evaluating manuscripts by reading widely across genres. Practice writing reader's reports on various books, as this will prepare you for the tasks you'll face during the traineeship and show your analytical abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your organisational skills by managing a personal project related to literature, such as a blog or a book club. This initiative will highlight your passion for books and your ability to handle multiple tasks effectively, which is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Daniela Schlingmann Literary Scouting Ltd - 12-month Scouting Traineeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Meaningful Covering Letter: Your covering letter should reflect your passion for literary scouting and publishing. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and why you are interested in this specific traineeship at Daniela Schlingmann Literary Scouting Ltd.
Prepare Your CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and tailored to the role. Emphasise any relevant experience, such as internships, volunteer work, or coursework related to literature, publishing, or communication.
Create a Reader's Report: Write a two-page sample reader's report on a book you've recently read. Include a concise plot summary, your review, and an assessment of its suitability for international markets. This showcases your analytical skills and understanding of the industry.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to send your application via email, clearly stating 'DSLS TRAINEE' in the subject line. Double-check that all documents are attached and formatted correctly before hitting send.
How to prepare for a job interview at BookBrunch Limited
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research Daniela Schlingmann Literary Scouting Ltd. Understand their role in the publishing industry, their key clients, and recent projects. This will show your genuine interest and help you tailor your answers.
✨Showcase Your Reading Experience
As a scouting traineeship requires a strong literary background, be prepared to discuss books you've read recently. Highlight your ability to evaluate manuscripts and express your thoughts on their potential for international markets.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Given the fast-paced nature of the role, it's crucial to showcase your organisational skills. Share examples of how you've managed multiple tasks or projects effectively, especially under pressure.
✨Prepare Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture, the team you'll be working with, and what success looks like in this role. This shows your enthusiasm and engagement.
