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New Networking Group to help unemployed in publishing and bookselling

 

September 2009

 

 

Bookcareers.com is launching a networking group/job club to help and support those who have lost their jobs from the industry and are currently unemployed. The name of the group is Bookcareers Initiative (as everyone involved will need to use their initiative to help themselves and others).

 

The aim of the group is to advise, support and offer some training to those who are going through a prolonged job search and give them some dignity, positive focus, new ideas as well as bring them into direct contact with those recruiting. A number of recruiters within the industry will be invited to the meetings for informal chats with potential employees.

 

The idea, from Suzanne Collier of bookcareers.com has already got the support of the BTBS, Publishers Association, SYP and WIP, SFEP; other trade associations are also believed to be coming on board. After there are meetings on a regular basis – a group for London Professionals, a group for London Associates (first jobbers, students, limited experience) an Oxford group meeting. The project will initially run for three months, but if successful may continue in 2010.

 

Attending the meeting is by ‘invitation’ – you have to register with bookcareers.com (email Suzanne@bookcareers.com) as places are strictly limited.

 

Suzanne Collier says “this is not a ‘drop in centre’ but a formal meeting which will be very positive and dignified; one to help re-motivate you and keep you on track whilst looking for a job. I will also be on hand to provide professional advice about CVs, Covering Letters, Interviews. This is not the kind of group where you stand up and say ‘hello, my name is... and I’m unemployed’ but should be seen as a place to give you some focus and get a huge lift and ideas for your job search. One of the hardest things to do when you are out of work is network with colleagues, but I hope to make this very easy with my new Initiative.”

 

“I’m providing my time and expertise free of charge; 3 Monkeys Communications, who recently won PR weeks’ Silver award for ‘Best Place to Work 2009’ have kindly provided a venue in London free of charge; Oxford Brookes are kindly helping out with the Oxford venue.”

 

As there is only limited space, registration is essential. You can find out more on www.bookcareers.com or send your CV to suzanne@bookcareers.com.

 

Endorsements:

 

Annabel Dunstan, Managing Director, 3 Monkeys Communications:

“We are chuffed we could help. It is so important to have access to a supportive group environment when you are facing long term unemployment.

 

David Hicks, The Book Trade Charity, BTBS:

“Our work with mid-career problems has been developing over the years and we are delighted to support this Initiative”

 

Society for Editors and Proofreaders:

“This initiative will help to ensure that the experience of long-standing editorial staff is not lost to publishing. The Society for Editors and Proofreaders has been committed for 21 years to upholding editorial excellence and fully supports this initiative.”

 

Angela Solomon, Chair of the Society of Young Publishers:

“Suzanne Collier is always on hand to offer warm and supportive advice – this initiative is another example of her continuous assistance to the job seeker”

 

Women in Publishing:

Women in Publishing have collaborated with Suzanne Collier on a number of occasions and we are sure her new initiative will again be very beneficial for many people within the industry.

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