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- Tasks: Lead exciting PR campaigns for diverse fiction and non-fiction titles.
- Company: Join a dynamic team passionate about storytelling in the UK book scene.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £35K and opportunities for creative growth.
- Why this job: Shape how stories are told and engage with top-tier media.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in book publicity with strong media contacts and pitching skills.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
Are you a passionate storyteller with a flair for crafting high-impact publicity campaigns? Do you have your finger on the pulse of the UK book scene and a contacts book bursting with top-tier journalists and producers? We are looking for a confident and creative Publicist to join our client's dynamic team and lead on exciting PR campaigns across a diverse range of fiction and non-fiction titles.
About the Role
As a Publicist, you'll be at the heart of delivering standout campaigns that create noise, spark conversation, and drive engagement. From print and broadcast to digital and live events, you'll harness every opportunity to put our clients' books in the spotlight. You'll work independently and collaboratively, managing campaigns from conception to execution. Whether it's securing national media coverage, organising a book launch, or escorting an author to a prime-time interview, your work will shape how our clients' stories are told.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and deliver strategic, results-driven publicity campaigns across multiple media platforms.
- Maintain strong, proactive communication with clients, authors, and agents.
- Build and nurture relationships with key journalists, editors, and media producers.
- Respond promptly and professionally to media enquiries.
- Offer informed advice rooted in a solid understanding of the UK publishing landscape.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams to ensure campaign goals are met.
- Attend and manage author events and media appearances where required.
- Support new business efforts alongside the Head of Books.
About You
You have at least 3 years' experience in book publicity, with a strong track record in non-fiction campaigns. Your media contacts are second to none, and your pitching skills are sharp and persuasive. You're deeply engaged with the book industry and understand what makes media, and readers, take notice. You thrive on juggling multiple projects and love the buzz of a busy campaign. Your attention to detail, copywriting finesse, and project management skills are exceptional. You're a confident communicator who builds trust and rapport with ease.
If you're looking for your next challenge in book publicity and this sounds like the right fit, we'd love to hear from you.
To apply please send your CV to hannah.keighley@handle.co.uk
Handle actively welcomes applicants from under-represented backgrounds - we pride ourselves on attracting the best talent for every opportunity through a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Publicist - Books (Fiction & Non-Fiction) employer: Handle Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Handle Recruitment Recruiting Team
hannah.keighley@handle.co.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Publicist - Books (Fiction & Non-Fiction)
✨Tip Number 1
Network, network, network! Attend book fairs, literary events, and industry conferences to meet key players in the publishing world. Building relationships with authors, agents, and journalists can give you a significant edge when applying for the Publicist role.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current trends in both fiction and non-fiction genres. Follow industry news, subscribe to relevant publications, and engage with online communities. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your previous successes in publicity campaigns. Prepare specific examples of how you've secured media coverage or organised successful events. Being able to discuss your achievements confidently can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's recent campaigns and their authors. Understanding their style and approach will allow you to tailor your conversation during interviews, showing that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Publicist - Books (Fiction & Non-Fiction)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in book publicity, especially focusing on non-fiction campaigns. Include specific examples of successful campaigns you've managed and any relevant media contacts you have.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for storytelling and your understanding of the UK book scene. Mention your media contacts and how they can benefit the role, as well as your project management skills.
Showcase Your Campaign Experience: In your application, provide detailed descriptions of past publicity campaigns you've led. Highlight your strategic planning, execution, and the results achieved to demonstrate your capability in driving engagement.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents. Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors, as attention to detail is crucial in this role. A polished application reflects your professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Handle Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Passion for Books
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for both fiction and non-fiction during the interview. Share specific examples of books that have inspired you and how they relate to your approach in publicity.
✨Highlight Your Media Connections
Discuss your existing relationships with journalists and media producers. Be prepared to provide examples of how these connections have helped you secure coverage for previous campaigns.
✨Demonstrate Your Campaign Management Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience managing publicity campaigns from start to finish. Use concrete examples to illustrate your project management skills and how you've successfully juggled multiple projects.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Industry Trends
Stay informed about current trends in the UK book scene. During the interview, share your insights on what makes a successful publicity campaign today and how you would apply this knowledge to their titles.
