Landing The Dream Journalism Job

Saturday, January 23, 2010

The economy is definitely in the pits right now, and the world of journalism is seeing it first hand. Though the issues give them much to talk and write about, it is hurting them greatly. Journalism jobs are scarce everywhere, but there are ways to make yourself more marketable.


Since on-the-job training for entry-level positions is almost unheard of, earning a bachelor of arts in broadcasting or journalism is a more than great. Broadcasting companies usually hire those who have a degree and experience in the field. Another key is being an intern for a station. If someone aspiring for a job in this field can show them their skills and how hard they will work, hiring them when an opening comes can be an easy "yes" from their boss.

These skills that someone must show while being an intern aren't easy however. One most definitely cannot be the type of person who is shy and likes to sit back and watch. Working in the journalism field takes a lot. Flexibility is crucial. The hours and places are all over. This requires one to be able to control their stress and time in an efficient manner. Critical thinking skills are also a must in this field. Perhaps the most important key, is just working hard every single minute of every single day. The journalism field has no time for slackers.

Since many people's dream jobs is simply just that, a dream, it is often wise to look at other options in the field. It is common for people to want anchor and reporter jobs on TV news broadcasts. There are also news analysts and commentators. People can also be anchors and reporters on the radio. Producers, assignment editors and news directors may not be on camera, but play a key role. Though the newspaper business is declining, writing for newspapers and magazines are also jobs that many people are interested in doing. Another job that is not as well known is working for public relations in museums, schools, and nonprofit organizations which can include announcers, research correspondents, and production assistants.

Being in the journalism field can be rough. One may not get their dream job at ESPN or the Washington Post, but there is hope. Even though openings are hard to find and compete for, with the right skills, background, and mind set, landing the right job can become a little easier.

2 comments:

Hanna Russmann January 24, 2010 at 12:24 PM  

Your post is very straight forward and to the point. I like it. Especially, all of the things one should expect in this field. I had no idea what the life of journalist would be like until I started writing for The Simpsonian, and I have only scratched the surface. I wish I could have be able to read this, when I decided I wanted to be a journalism major and been more prepared.

Julia Robinson January 26, 2010 at 11:28 AM  

I enjoyed your article as well, and agree with Hanna saying that I had no idea what it'd be like to write as a journalist until I joined the Simpsonian. I have always had my "dream job" in my mind and articles like this remind me that it's going to take a lot of hard work and determenation to get me anywhere near it. Hopefully people can read more articles like this one and give their future goals some realistic thought.

Post a Comment

  © Blogger template On The Road by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP