Editorial assistants perform clerical duties and coordinate many of the
elements that go into producing a publication. They are found working for
newspapers, periodicals, trade publications, and publishing firms.
Your
duties depend largely on the size and type of publication. You may order
supplies, draw up office budgets, answer phones, arrange for couriers, or obtain
and update source materials. Other duties include writing letters, assisting
with proofreading and research, verifying information, inputting text into
computer systems, and maintaining contact with the various departments of a
publication. Smaller publications may even ask you to help with writing and
layout. Though the tasks may vary, your job is vital since you are responsible
for much of the "leg work" that goes into the final product.
Training
for this position tends to be on the job. You quickly need to learn about the
many elements and departments that are involved in producing a publication. You
will also find that word-processing skills are an important asset. Some
publications require that its editorial assistants have secretarial skills and
clerical experience.
You may either be paid a salary or hourly wages,
depending upon where you work. Working hours tend to be based on a forty-hour
work week, but overtime and hectic days are common.
Publishing can be a highly stressful and competitive business. You will have
to remain up-to-date with developments related to the publication you are
involved with. With experience, you may assume more responsibility. If you show
lots of potential, you may become an assistant editor.
Although this is an
entry level occupation, it can open the doors to a very exciting career in
journalism and publishing.
Since you are responsible for a wide range of
tasks, organizational skills are vital. Working as a link to the various parts
of a publication writers, photographers, editors, layout artists, printers, and
distributers you must be a strong communicator, able to act directly and
promptly. Deadlines are an important part of producing publications and you
should be able to cope with pressure, react decisively, and pay close attention
to detail.
Strong grammatical skills are also essential for a person in this
position.