6 things you need to know

if you want to work for a magazine

If becoming a model is not in your deck of cards (because seriously how many people even have legs for days, an innie minnie waist line and that extra magical touch that photographers beg for?) the second most sought after job on a girls list is; working for a magazine.

And I know all about. Both print and online. And I can tell you: there isn’t a job I can think of that’s more fun than this.

Being asked whether I had a tough day at the office is a question I would rather avoid. It always makes me feel uneasy. Of course we work hard here too, but our work consists of writing fun articles, collaborating with brands and fun brainstorming sessions with the entire Amayzine clan. Sounds god damn awful doesn’t it?

So hereby a few words from the wise so you don’t screw up your interview.

Avoid determiners

You work for Elle, Vogue, Marie Claire or Amayzine. Not for the Elle or the Vogue. Why? God knows. It just is.

The board

I recall during my very first job interview for a magazine someone said to me that I probably had no idea what a planning board was.

Now I knew what ‘a’ board was and what planning meant but in this case it wasn’t the same a ’the’ planning board.

The planning board is the buildup of the magazine. The division from cover to cover lined up systematically so that you’ll see precisely where everything is going to be placed in the magazine including all the advertisements. Compris?

The wall

Here too it isn’t about ‘a’ but it’s ’the’. On the wall you’ll find the planning board, at least the printed and completed version of the it. That way you’re able to check if the storyline is clear and the transitions from articles to advertisements run smoothly.

A series

A series is not reoccurring sequel or prequel or anything along those lines. A series is a fashion series. A group of photos that go together. Having your ‘own’ series means that the magazine made it themselves and it wasn’t purchased.

Shooting

You shoot a series, and no I am not referring to an episode of CSI Miami. It’s a photographed fashion shoot. For TV and movies it’s what they call ‘rolling’, and for magazine’s you refer to it as ‘shooting’.

The tombola

Ah, the magic word. Officially a tombola is a type of raffle and in the magazine world, it practically works the same way. How it works? Well magazine’s always get a bunch of things sent their way. Think of exclusive perfumes and costly serums. These obviously get tested and photographed, but afterwards, they are all kept in a secret closet. And as soon the closet is so packed that you’re unable to close it, there’s a tombola and everyone is allowed to pick out a few fun products. Warning: this may lead to a few office wars at some offices, but don’t worry, ours are always friendly and fun.

If we’ve amped your enthusiasm for working at a magazine, give this a quick read.