Tuesday 29 December 2015

2015: My Year

Someone once said, ‘time is like a handful of sand - the tighter you grasp it, the faster it runs through your fingers’. This quote somewhat resonates with me because as the year draws to a close I find myself wondering where the time has gone. Although as cliché as it sounds, I can't help but feel that my year has gone far too quickly (or maybe I've just been enjoying it too much!). They do say time flies when you're having fun. It feels like only yesterday that I ran the half marathon and got the keys to my first home. 

Looking back on the year now, I can't believe all I have achieved. In fact, I pretty much covered everything I wanted to. Well, all except that skydive I mentioned - but I'm sure there are less scary ways to step outside of my comfort zone anyway! To sum up the last 12 months, I'd say that I've achieved lots of my life goals and in doing so, dealt with plenty of change. For that reason alone, 2015 has been one to remember. 

My whirlwind year in pictures:
June 14th – Running the half marathon

July 31st – Getting the keys to my first home

October 16th – Dinner at the Eiffel Tower (Le Jules Verne)

November 2nd – Starting my new job

All of the memories above have really made my 2015 a special year. It really has beaten my wonder year (2012) - I never thought that would even be possible. This year has certainly been a special one, who knows what the future holds in 2016... 

Until then, I'd like to say a special thanks to all those still finding the time to read my blog - I can't believe it has been running for four years now. Thanks for the continued support. 

Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Tuesday 22 December 2015

Intern Opportunities: 22 December 2015

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Tuesday 15 December 2015

Intern Opportunities: 15 December 2015

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Tuesday 8 December 2015

Intern Opportunities: 8 December 2015



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Tuesday 1 December 2015

Intern Opportunities: 1st December 2015

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Tuesday 24 November 2015

Intern Opportunities: 24 November 2015

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Tuesday 3 November 2015

Intern Opportunities: 3 November 2015



    Expenses Only Work Experience
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    Tuesday 27 October 2015

    The End of an Era

    Earlier on in the year, in my pursuit of happiness, I decided to follow what Einstein once said that “If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or objects”, and some of you will already know that I have in fact achieved many goals this year, which a little under a year ago I didn’t think was in the pipeline. But today, I’m writing a post not to celebrate my year’s achievements, but one to mark the biggest change in my working life thus far – my departure from TimeInc UK.

    “Time Inc. is one of the largest branded media companies in the world reaching more than 120 million people each month across multiple platforms.”, and is a company that I feel I’ve grown up with. Now, no longer can I claim to be the nervous graduate who, for the first time, when stepping foot into the 12 floor Blue Fin building, had absolutely no clue as to how to act or where my career was heading. Instead, a young woman set on a career in CRM. My graduate days seem like a distant memory now. I can’t believe three years have already flown by.

    Long gone were the days of being a marketing assistant across the glamourous Southbank brands and being PA to some of the most senior faces at Time. It’s fair to say that I’ve learnt a lot by taking on various roles over the years (five to be exact!). I think it really displays the vast opportunities and flexibility that a large media publishing company can offer their employees. I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today without the people at Time.

    I’ve always been a firm believer that if a company takes care of the people, then the people will take care of the company. I think that that has absolutely been true for me. During my time, I have felt very looked after and at times astounded by the talent and creative minds that surrounded me. The company’s culture is phenomenal however, as with all large companies, change is constantly in the air, but this time it was for me to.

    After three fantastic years, I’m sad to be leaving Time, but at the same time I’m exhilarated by the new challenges that await me. I will be continuing my career as a CRM Executive at a company called Quidco. I have a good feeling about the new role, and believe that the transition can only develop me and progress my career further. I’m seizing a new opportunity and heading out of my comfort zone. Watch this space.       

    Intern Opportunities: 27 October 2015

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    Tuesday 20 October 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 20 October 2015

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    Tuesday 13 October 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 13 October 2015

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    Tuesday 6 October 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 06 October 2015

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    Endeavour Press are looking for digital publishing interns to start from November onwards. Internships will run for one month, and £10 a day towards travel expenses will be covered. You will get an in depth look into the world of digital publishing, and will take on a variety of tasks, including reading submissions, helping out with social media campaigns, working on the newsletter, proof-reading manuscripts, writing blurbs and coming up with ideas for cover design. If you are interested please send a CV and cover letter to richard@endeavourpress.com

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    Tuesday 29 September 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 29 September 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Literary agency, Bell Lomax Moreton resents a wide range of distinguished authors and illustrators, writing and illustrating adult fiction, non-fiction and children's books. They are currently looking for highly motivated and enthusiastic graduates to work with them on various projects on a paid internship basis. Responsibilities will include; managing our submissions log, writing manuscript reports, providing administrative and website support and helping to plan the annual illustrator showcase. Good administrative and organisational skills are essential, as is a positive, sociable attitude, a love of reading and a genuine interest in the industry. The internship will start immediately and will last for 3 months (Mon-Fri, 9.30am-5.30pm) until the Christmas break, with the possibility to extend the placement beyond this period for the right candidate. 
    If you think an internship with Bell Lomax Moreton might be the right experience for you, then please send your CV and covering letter to Lauren@bell-lomax.co.uk
    *Please note the Bell Lomax Moreton office is based in Petts Wood (London Zone 5) and daily travel to this location will be required.

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    Thursday 24 September 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 24 September 2015

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    Tuesday 15 September 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 15 September 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Quadrille and Hardie Grant Publishing have a vacancy for a press officer. For more information please click here

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    Tuesday 1 September 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 1st September 2015


    • Quadrille and Hardie Grant Books are seeking publicity and sales interns. If you're interested, please send your CV to: enquiries@quadrille.co.uk

    Paid Internships
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    Opportunity of the week...
    Crimson Publishing is seeking an Editorial Intern on a one year contract. The role offers an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and proactive graduate to learn about all aspects of publishing
    The Editorial Intern provides administrative support to the Editorial and Production teams across the full range of book imprints at Crimson Publishing. Working closely with the Commissioning Editor, the Editorial Intern is responsible for liaising with authors and acting as the point of contact with other departments, maintaining bibliographic and rights databases, and for the coordination and collation of advertising copy from third part clients.
    The successful applicant will be hard-working, organised, flexible, have strong editorial capabilities and be able to maintain a great eye for detail while working to deadlines under pressure. To apply for this position, please send your CV and covering letter to Della Oliver, Commissioning Editor, at dellao@trotman.co.uk .
    Location: Crimson Publishing, 19-21 Charles Street, Bath, BA1 1HX
    Salary: £12,675
    Closing date: 14th September 2015

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    Tuesday 25 August 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 25 August 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Michael O'Mara Books are currently looking to hire a new Office Administrator on a 9 month contract, with the opportunity for this to be extended. Those interested should email a CV and cover letter to Mauro Spagnol (mauro.spagnol@mombooks.com) for more information about the role by 31st August 2015. 

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    Tuesday 18 August 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 18 August 2015



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    Opportunity of the week...
    Endeavour Press are looking for digital publishing interns to start from October onwards. Internships will run for one month, and £10 a day towards travel expenses will be covered. You will get an in depth look into the world of digital publishing, and will take on a variety of tasks, including reading submissions, helping out with social media campaigns, working on the newsletter, proof-reading manuscripts, writing blurbs and coming up with ideas for cover design. If you are interested please send a CV and cover letter to richard@endeavourpress.com

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    Tuesday 4 August 2015

    Intern and Graduate Opportunities: 04 August 2015

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    Tuesday 28 July 2015

    Intern and Graduate Opportunities: 28 July 2015

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    Tuesday 21 July 2015

    Intern and Graduate Opportunities: 21 July 2015

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    Tuesday 14 July 2015

    Intern and Graduate Opportunities: 14th July 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Oldcastle Books have a vacancy for a creative, flexible and enthusiastic individual to join their busy office in Harpenden (Hertfordshire) to assist with their PR and Marketing operation. The job will involve creating awareness for their books across a wide range of platforms, developing strong author profiles and building the Oldcastle Books brand, which includes No Exit Press, Pulp! the Classics, Pocket Essentials and Kamera Books.
    Day to day, the role will involve the dissemination of information required to achieve this; working closely with authors, and partners in order to maintain a working relationship with journalists, bookshops and festivals. Initially the job will be a paid internship but the right person will quickly progress into a fully functioning PR Executive. 
    If you think you have the right skills for the job contact them via their website

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    Tuesday 7 July 2015

    Intern and Graduate Opportunities: 07 July 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Venture Press (a company owned by Endeavour Press) are currently running an internship scheme for people interested in publicity and editorial. Venture Press are a science fiction and fantasy ebook publisher and are looking for a digital publishing intern to help with researching authors, writing blurbs, social media campaigns and general admin tasks. An in-depth and broad knowledge of science fiction and fantasy would be preferred. Placements will last for 1 month and they will prioritise candidates who are able to start as soon as possible. The internship will be based at their offices in Borough High Street, London and will involve working from 9:30-5:30pm. 
    They pay ten pounds per day for expenses.
    If you would like to submit an application, please send a covering letter, specifying when you are available to work, and your CV to Jack Butler: jack@endeavourpress.com.

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    Tuesday 30 June 2015

    Intern and Graduate Opportunities: 30 June 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Endeavour Press are looking to employ a Editorial Assistant for a full-time permanent position starting as soon as possible. This is an exciting opportunity to assist with publishing e-books and developing their digital strategy. The successful candidate will start on a three month temporary contract, with a view to then signing a permanent contract. 

    The role will be diverse. Duties will consist of, but are not limited to:

    • Proof reading and formatting books.
    • Writing copy
    • Pitching cover design ideas
    • Acquiring and commissioning titles. 
    • Assisting with promotional campaigns for new releases on Twitter and Facebook;
    • Administrative duties

    Offices are based in London on Borough High Street. Relevant experience in publishing is preferred. Early applications will be prioritised. Send your application (cover letter and CV) to richard@endeavourpress.com.

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    Tuesday 23 June 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 23 June 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Lucas Alexander Whitley Ltd is offering a 3 – 6 month internship to a graduate interested in pursuing a career in publishing available from 24th August 2015.
    The successful candidate will be based in the offices of agents Julian Alexander and Mark Lucas and, as such, should display an interest in the authors they represent as well as the broad range of the agency’s business and client base. The intern will be expected to help with everything from rights, royalties and contracts, to marketing and social media, submissions and general office admin.
    He/she will have the opportunity to gain an in-depth insight into the role of a literary agent and become an integral part of the team. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, efficiency and a commitment to hard work are essential. The role is a full time one and based at their offices in Olympia. Remuneration is £250 per week net of National Insurance with a pro-rata holiday allowance of 20 days per annum.
    Applicants should send a covering letter and CV to admin@lawagency.co.uk by midday on 10th July 2015. Applicants must be available for a short interview at their London-based office between the 13th and 17th July 2015.

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    Tuesday 16 June 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 16 June 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Michael O'Mara Books is offering an internship for a digitally savvy graduate who is looking to gain experience in the world of booking publishing. Click here to find out more information.  

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    Tuesday 9 June 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 09 June 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    DK is accepting applications for editorial internships this Autumn and Winter.

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    Tuesday 2 June 2015

    Intern and Graduate Opportunities: 02 June 2015

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    Opportunity of the week...
    Endeavour Press - the UK's leading independent digital publisher - are looking for a publishing intern to start asap. The placement will run for four weeks with duties including, reading submissions, proof-reading manuscripts, writing blurbs, running social media campaigns and tracking down authors. £10 will be paid per day towards travel expenses. To apply please send your cover letter and CV to amy@endeavourpress.com.

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    Tuesday 26 May 2015

    Intern Opportunities: 26 May 2015

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    Saturday 23 May 2015

    Work your Way to the Top and Stay There

    At times we can become so focused on day-to-day life that we forget about the bigger picture. Our future, our goals, our aspirations and what it’s going to take to get there. To put off what we should be thinking about today to tomorrow - allowing days to turn into weeks and weeks into months. But all it takes is one or two thoughts today, to start taking crucial steps to a better tomorrow.

    Here are some tips to work your way to the top and stay there.

    Define your own success
    It goes without saying that not everyone’s goals in life are the same. We all have different aspirations and motivations, and the only person who can really decide what’s best for you, is you. So before you start setting yourself goals, have a think about what success really means to you – what does success look like? Make a mental note or grab a pen and decide who the successful you is and what would make you successful. Have a think about where your ‘top’ is or where your ‘there’ is. Once you’ve figured that out, you know what you can start working towards. Being aware is the first step.

    Measure progress
    It’s all well and good having goals and discovering your own definition of success, but then what? So once you’ve taken that first step, don’t stop there. This is just the beginning of the journey. It’s once we take those first thoughts that they can then become actions and our actions define who we are. So take those thoughts, those goals and run with them.  Put a timeline against them, set a deadline and compile a plan of action. Track your progress and don’t give up if setbacks occur.

    Look at the people around you
    Don’t forget that there are others around you that can help out. Use them as a springboard for idea, advice or inspiration. For instance, if working your way to the top means having the goal of getting a promotion, then use others for feedback. Don’t shy away from constructive criticism, as in the end, it can only make you better at what you do. Remember if you change nothing then nothing changes.

    Opportunities
    Everywhere around you there are opportunities. It’s all about recognising them and using them to your advantage. Again, if you have the goal of getting a promotion, then start networking with people in your industry. Share advice, tips and best practises. It’s always a good idea to share knowledge with like-minded individuals because knowledge is power.

    Learning
    Whatever goals you set yourself, there are bound to be learnings along the way, so embrace them. Some will be obvious like attending seminars, external events or reading books. Bear in mind that if you’re always on the lookout for new learnings and opportunities, then you’re well on your way to developing into that successful person you dream of being. Open your eyes and embrace learning and development.

    Balance and wellbeing
    Lastly, most importantly, on your way to the top (wherever that may be for you), don’t forget about your own wellbeing. It’s so easy to get lost in day-to-day life that you forget about you. Check in with yourself every so often and ask yourself if you’re on track to achieve what you want to be achieving. If you are then great, if you’re not, then determine what you can do today to get back up there.


    Always strive for progress not perfection and in doing so, you will get to the top and stay there.