Work Experience Placement: Editorial Intern Review

I obtained a 2-week work experience placement at Penguin Random House, where I worked in the editorial department. My day-to-day responsibilities included proofreading, accepting submissions, creating content, marketing-based roles such as creating research projects, and attending meetings and providing input.

I learnt how to use different software, I learnt how to proofread and provide editorial advice, as well as learning more about how to check eBooks and how to create research projects using data analysis.

I very much enjoyed my work experience at Penguin Random House. The editorial team were extremely helpful and kind. The culture was welcoming and involving, and workers were treated more like people than robots. It exceeded my expectations and following this placement, I have obtained more work experience in publishing and hope to pursue a career in this field.

My mentor was extremely helpful and provided excellent support and guidance throughout, as did the wider team and members of staff from other departments. There was recognition constantly and thanks for all tasks I carried out, and I was given the opportunity to lead from my end.

The organisation was superb from start to finish. I was given preparation information and general information on both my department and the company as a whole. I was supported constantly throughout, and following the end of my work experience, I had a meeting with my mentor to talk through the process and how I felt about it.

My mentor provided me with basic information on the layout, set-up and departments, as well as vital information of the publishing and editorial industry. I found that my mentor cared for my opinions and listened to everything I said.

I received more than sufficient support from my employer, and I was delighted with the process from start to finish. Both the HR Team and other members of staff were helpful.

Despite being unpaid, my travel expenses were reimbursed and I was provided with a small amount to go towards my lunch. Although I was unpaid, as of this year, Penguin Random House pays for all work experience placements.

There were opportunities to get involved with company events and Friday events, and there was knowledge given to wider events and information about the wider publishing world.

Yes

It was one of the most engaging and interesting work experience placements I had ever done, and I felt truly valued like a member of staff would.

Always show how passionate you are about the company, and make sure you've done your research. If you don't truly appreciate the publishing industry or have a keen interest, don't apply.