At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and share your writing while engaging with the community at the Paisley Book Festival.
- Company: Join the vibrant Paisley Book Festival, celebrating diverse voices and local storytelling.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time role with opportunities for creative development and community engagement.
- Other info: 10-month residency with a focus on creativity and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by amplifying local stories and participating in a dynamic literary environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for writing in any form and a love for community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Paisley Book Festival seeks to appoint a part‑time Writer in Residence to support the festival’s strategic aims around creative development, community engagement, and amplifying diverse voices. The residency will centre on Paisley as a lived environment, responding to the festival’s ethos and values, and prioritise local storytelling, participation, and access to quality creative writing and/or literary engagement.
The Writer in Residence will act as both:
- A creative practitioner developing new work
- A public‑facing ambassador, engaging communities and contributing to the festival’s year‑round presence
This residency is open to all forms of writing, including prose, poetry, playwriting, screenwriting, spoken word, writing for children, and genre writing. The writer must be inspired by and influenced by Paisley. Each festival is curated with a theme, confirmed 6 months ahead of launch; the residency should take inspiration from this theme when curating workshops, engagement activity and festival events.
Timeframe: 10 months (August/September 2026 – May 2027) (based on SAU Recommended Rates of Pay 2025‑2026, 3+ Years’ Experience)
Deadline for submission: Monday 20 July 2026 at 12 noon
Submission Process: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a short, informal interview scheduled from w/c 17 and 24 August 2026.
Freelance Writer in Residence- Paisley Book Festival 2027 employer: Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd
The Paisley Book Festival is an exceptional employer for creative individuals, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the local community and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of Paisley. With a focus on diverse storytelling and creative development, the festival fosters a supportive work culture that encourages artistic growth and collaboration. As a Writer in Residence, you will not only develop your craft but also play a vital role in amplifying voices within the community, making this position both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Freelance Writer in Residence- Paisley Book Festival 2027
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
In the publishing and media world, your portfolio is your calling card. Make sure it’s up-to-date with your best work. Whether it’s articles, graphics, or multimedia projects, post them on platforms like Behance or your own website, so potential clients can see your style and capability. If you're working with specific styles, tailor your portfolio pieces to match.
✨Join Industry Freelance Platforms
Sign up on platforms like Reedsy, PeoplePerHour, or even MediaBistro that specifically cater to publishing and media gigs. They’re teeming with opportunities and can connect you with clients looking for freelance talent in our field. Keep your profile active and apply to projects regularly to get your foot in the door.
✨Network Through Local Events
Get involved in local writer's meetups, book fairs, and media conferences. These events are perfect for meeting fellow freelancers and potential clients. Bring your business cards (or a digital version) and don’t be shy about showcasing what you do. People are more likely to remember you if they can put a face to your work!
✨Leverage Social Media for Visibility
Utilise social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to share your thoughts on industry trends or projects you’re working on. Engaging with publishing-related hashtags can help you gain visibility. Plus, don’t forget to tag companies like Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd when you share relevant content—it could catch their eye and lead to opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Freelance Writer in Residence- Paisley Book Festival 2027
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Portfolio with Flair:As a freelancer in the publishing and media field, your portfolio is your calling card. Ensure it showcases a variety of your best work that highlights your writing style, versatility, and any published pieces. Think creatively about how to present your work—maybe include a blog, articles, or even multimedia projects!
Show Off Your Industry Knowledge:Let your passion for media shine through your application. Tailor your CV to include relevant experience, such as internships or freelance gigs you've had in the past. Highlight any specific areas of expertise—like content strategy, editorial skills, or knowledge of digital media trends—that make you a perfect fit for Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Freelancing often revolves around your schedule, so be upfront about your availability in your pitch. Let Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd know how many hours you can dedicate each week and if you have flexibility with deadlines. This shows professionalism and helps them see how you can fit into their team.
Tailor Your Application for the Role:Make sure each application you send out, especially to Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd, is custom-crafted. Reference specific projects or initiatives they've undertaken that excite you, and explain how your unique skills can contribute to their success. We want to see that personal touch!
How to prepare for a job interview at Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd
✨Showcase Your Portfolio Creatively
As a freelancer in the publishing-media sector, your portfolio is your calling card! Make sure to not only present your work but also tell the story behind each piece. Highlight your creative process and the impact your projects had, especially if they involved collaboration with others.
✨Understand the Latest Trends
Keep your ear to the ground about current trends in publishing and media. Be ready to discuss how they might influence your work and the projects you'd like to pursue at Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd. This shows you're not only prepared but also passionate about the industry.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Rates
Freelance work means you're essentially selling yourself, so be upfront about your rates and what they include. Understand the value you bring to the table and be prepared to negotiate, ensuring you come across as professional and confident.
✨Prepare to Pitch on the Spot
In freelance interviews for publishing-media, you might be asked to come up with ideas or a quick pitch. Have a few concepts ready that align with their vision at Renfrewshire Leisure Ltd. It could be a potential article, campaign idea, or even a content strategy that showcases your creativity and strategic thinking.
