By Elizabeth Beach, PhD AE, Chair, IPEd Mentoring Committee
Calling all fiction editors! Do you remember the thrill of discovering new voices and shaping raw manuscripts into captivating stories? Maybe it’s time to share your skills and experience with some of IPEd’s newest fiction editors.
The IPEd mentoring program is looking for experienced fiction editors to nurture and guide newer editors trying to break into this area. We’re looking for IPEd/Canberra Society of Editor members with technical prowess, cultural sensitivity, and publishing industry knowledge to help our mentees develop the skills and confidence they need to grow their fiction careers.
What’s in it for you?
If you saw our talk at the 11th IPEd Editors Conference in May, you’ll know that mentoring can be a very rewarding experience. Not only do you get the personal satisfaction of helping others, you’ll benefit from your own professional learning. You’ll have the opportunity to practise and improve your leadership skills as you nurture others, give them advice and think about how to deliver that guidance in a way that empowers your mentee. Engaging in curious conversations with your mentee will sharpen your listening skills and clarify your understanding of the editing process, reminding you just how much it takes to be a successful editor. The skills you learn during this process can be applied in other professional situations, whether you’re managing a team or leading a project.
To find out more about the mentoring program, please take a look at the IPEd website. You can apply to be a mentor using our online form. Or email us to find out more.