The Kepner Agency is excited to offer a dynamic and educational internship program designed for individuals aspiring to enter the fascinating world of book publishing. Under the mentorship of Chris Kepner, a seasoned literary agent with over 15 years of experience, successful candidates will gain invaluable insights into the publishing industry, refine their skills, and build a foundation for a rewarding career in this field. This unpaid internship program is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience and course credit in coordination with the candidate’s educational institution.
Program Highlights:
Mentorship: Interns will have the unique opportunity to work closely with Chris Kepner, who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in literary representation, contract negotiations, and manuscript and proposal development. Chris will serve as a dedicated mentor, providing guidance and sharing insights gained from years in the industry.
Industry Exposure: Interns will immerse themselves in the book publishing ecosystem. They will gain a deep understanding of the roles played by literary agents, authors, editors, and publishers. Exposure to the day-to-day operations of The Kepner Agency will provide a holistic view of the industry.
Manuscript and Proposal Evaluation: Interns will learn how to assess and evaluate manuscripts and proposals for their commercial viability. They will receive hands-on experience in critiquing query letters and proactively searching to identify potential clients and projects.
Contract Review and Negotiation: Gain insights into the critical process of contract negotiation and review. Learn how to protect an author's rights and navigate the legal aspects of publishing agreements.
Pitch Letter Crafting: Develop the essential skill of crafting persuasive pitches that captivate the attention of publishers. Learn the art of effectively pitching literary works to publishing houses.
Author-Agent Relations: Understand the dynamics of fostering positive relationships between authors and literary agents. Learn how to provide constructive feedback, manage client expectations, and support authors through the publishing process.
Program Requirements:
To participate in The Kepner Agency Internship Program, candidates must be enrolled in a degree-granting program that allows them to earn course credit for their internship experience. This requirement ensures compliance with federal and state guidelines regarding unpaid internships.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample to internship@kepneragency.com, along with their academic advisor's contact information, program requirements for course credit to be granted, and semester(s) for which they are applying (Fall, Spring, and Summer internships offered).
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview to assess their suitability for the internship.
Once selected, interns will work with their academic advisors to establish the necessary coursework and learning objectives to earn course credit for the internship.
Duration:
The internship program typically runs for a minimum of one semester, with opportunities for extension based on performance and academic requirements.
Location:
This position is fully remote with opportunities to meet in person if feasible.
Equal Opportunity:
The Kepner Agency LLC does not discriminate against any employee or job applicant because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, physical or mental disability, or age. Candidates from marginalized and/or underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Kepner Agency Internship Program offers a unique and enriching learning experience for individuals eager to explore the world of book publishing. Successful candidates will have the chance to work alongside an experienced literary agent, gaining practical skills and industry insights. This program is an excellent stepping stone for those aspiring to build a rewarding career in the publishing industry.