If getting into the publishing industry is your dream, then you know it will take a lot of work to get there. One of the biggest things you can do to accomplish your dream is to network. But your networking efforts need to be focused. Here are three ways you can focus your networking efforts to get into the publishing industry.

Follow Publishers You Want to Work With

To start, follow publishers you want to work with. Most publishers have social media accounts, and those accounts can be valuable as you see what projects they are working on, and what kind of books they are releasing. You can connect with them on LinkedIn, and if you make your headline catchy, you could possibly land a job with one of them. There are secrets to writing a great LinkedIn headline that will draw more connections. One way is to make it stand out—advertise what it is you do. Companies who are interested can then contact you directly. Following publishers is one way to network in the publishing industry.

Show Your Skills

Another thing you can do is showcase your skills. More important than a resume, your online portfolio showcases your work and helps give you credibility. Save the material from projects you’ve already done (as long as you have permission to do so) and use that material to create an online portfolio. You can then use that link on any personal business cards you make that you give away when networking. Building your skills helps you stand out from the crowd as you network with others in the publishing industry.

Attend Conferences

There are many conferences throughout the world where editors, writers, and agents come together. These conferences are incredibly valuable opportunities to network with people who are in the field right now. When meeting people at conferences, it is important to present your best foot forward, but to not be overbearing. Ask questions about the industry. Build relationships. One of the best things you can do for your career in the publishing industry is be involved and make connections. Those connections could ultimately land you a job.

Networking is key to getting into the publishing industry. As you network, you’ll want to put your best foot forward as you forge connections with those in the field. Success can be yours, if you put in the time to seek it.

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