Online mentorship scheme at Johnson & Alcock literary agency

Closing date: Thursday 31st October 2024

Page One is a flexible short-term mentoring scheme, run by the literary agents at Johnson & Alcock, for people wanting to learn more about the publishing industry.

Tailored to the candidate’s knowledge and availability, our aim is to demystify our industry and provide a stepping stone for candidates who are interested in working in publishing. 

This unpaid scheme is made up of approximately six hours of seminars in addition to some light reading and homework. 

Mentoring will be at the core of our relationship, with an emphasis on developing skills and confidence. At the end of the online phase, we will offer a few days’ work experience in the office, depending on your availability.

Eligibility criteria:

Our scheme is open to all applicants aged 18 or over from backgrounds that are under-represented in publishing, including (but not limited to): ethnically diverse candidates, those living outside of London and the South East, people with disabilities, and those from low-income families.

We’re looking for applicants who have a love for books, an interest in the publishing industry, and an appetite to learn. Bright, hard-working, friendly candidates are all welcome. You don’t need to have a degree or be attending university.

You can be based anywhere in the UK. All you need to participate is access to Zoom/Teams, and be ready to commit to approximately six hours of informal online seminars, as well as some optional days at the agency office. 

How to apply: 

Please email us a short letter, of no more than one side of A4, including the following:

• Tell us a bit about yourself, and any details you feel comfortable sharing that will help us understand how you are suited to a scheme promoting diversity.
• Please include a paragraph about any recent book you have read and enjoyed, sharing your thoughts on the style, the story and its key selling points.
• We’d also like to hear about your aspirations, and what you hope to gain from the mentorship.
• Please indicate the dates you are available, and your preferred start date.
• Don't forget your full name and contact details.

Send your letter to the email address found via the Apply button by Thursday 31st October 2024. Remember to mention in your application that you found this role through Creative Access.

You may be asked to attend a quick Zoom interview if you are shortlisted. Due to the volume of applications, we apologise in advance if we are unable to come back to you or enter correspondence.