We’ve launched a new series called “Random Staff Interrogation” in which you’ll get the low-down on who’s who in our offices. Stay tuned every Tuesday and Thursday for a new introduction, and some surprising answers!
Today I’d like to introduce you to Tan Light, who is a Digital Coordinator. Here’s how she handled my interrogation:
1. In one sentence, how would you describe your job?
My job is all about engaging readers of all ages: I tweet them, I Facebook them, I manage communities and write newsletters, I take them out to author events, and chat them up whenever I can.
2. How long have you worked at Random House, and how did you get into publishing?
I’ve worked at Random House of Canada for just over 4 years. Before that, I was an aspiring academic in a very obscure field. When I realized I might need a more practical plan career-wise, I asked myself what was really important to me. The answer was “Books” and the transmission of stories. I immediately enrolled at Humber College, finished their Publishing program that Summer, and landed the perfect job. I’ve never looked back.
3. What does your typical workday look like?
It’s hard to be ‘typical’ in the Digital World. I spend a good chunk of time each day on Social Media platforms, though which ones vary from day-to-day. Oh, and meetings. Meetings are a constant when you cover this many books. Everything else is a bit of a wild card. I might be covering an award ceremony, visiting the set of Canada Reads, throwing a party, or brainstorming reading challenges for the members of my teen readers community, Bookurious.com.
4. What do you like best about your job?
It’s a pretty amazing thing to spend your day talking to people who love books.
5. What was your very first job?
Very first? I had a paper route for many years, even before I started babysitting.
6. If you could do any other job (in or out of publishing) what would it be?
I’d be an author, of course. Wouldn’t we all?
7. Which genre do you read the most?
Paranormal anything. I’ve been down with the ghosts and vampires since I was tall enough to reach the circulation desk at the library. The fact that it’s so popular now thrills me to no end – innovations in the genre are everywhere. (But no, I have not read Twilight, nor do I plan to.)
8. What was your favourite childhood book or author?
One Monster After Another by Mercer Meyer. I’ve not been able to find a used copy as an adult, but I’ll keep looking!
9. What are you reading right now?
My signed, first edition of Colson Whitehead’s, Zone One. “A zombie story with brains…Readers who wouldn’t ordinarily creep into a novel festooned with putrid flesh might be lured by this certifiably hip writer who can spin gore into macabre poetry.” (Ron Charles, The Washington Post)
10. Which author would cause you to jump up and down with excitement upon finally getting to meet them?
I pretty much did just that the first time I met Kelley Armstrong in person. Since then, I’ve managed to wiggle my way onto her marketing team, so we’ve met enough times that I can contain my excitement. However, I will tell you I squealed out loud when Kelley called on my 30th Birthday!
Want to be introduced to other great employees? Be sure to check out these additional Random Staff Interrogations