From intern to editor at Backpacker Magazine

I’m sure there a lot of us who love writing and travel, and would sell our souls to have a job that combined the two passions. But how?

Written Road had an interview with Elisabeth Kwak-Hefferan, an associate editor at Backpacker Magazine. In it, she gives the lowdown on how she moved up to her dream job.

While experience, contacts and published articles are definitely important, I’d like to expand on one idea she mentioned: being willing to relocate immediately to take the job.

Having worked at several publishing gigs now, I can definitely attest to this. When you’re facing deadlines and a towering pile of work, it’s really tempting to take on the semi-qualified person who can start tomorrow, rather than the super-qualified person who won’t be available for 3 more months. Some NGO jobs I’ve looked up give the impression that they’re waiting for more facts (and funding) to come in, then they’ll need someone quickly.

Following Rolf’s advice in “Vagabonding” is good preparation for this. Have only a minimum of stuff, put your financial affairs in order, ensure your passport’s current, and keep your vaccinations up to date. You never know when you’ll get the call, and you’ll be ready to ride in to the rescue of your next employer.