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What does it take to be a successful journalist?
How do I get experience? As I enter the field, are there certain things employers will look for? What will make me successful, my education in journalism or my experience with it? Should I create a portfolio of my work, and if I do, can I include writing unrelated to journalism?
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4 answers
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Mia’s Answer
I've noticed in my work as a journalist I'm expected to take photographs, promote my own articles and content via social media, interview, follow up AND write stories all at once in a timely manner! I would say diversify your portfolio and write about any and everything you can! My education has prepared me, yes, but I also took up freelancing for my local newspaper AND joined my college's newspaper. This was a great way to try new things, receive guidance from other journalists and learn as I go. I would try to find an internship, even if it's unpaid (which sucks I know), it's a great way to gain experience and find that niche you enjoy to write about! I created a free website and some business cards, too. So as I go along and meet new people, go to conferences and freelance, I can give them my card and direct them to my website. Not only does a well-written and diverse website help you grow and gain attention by employers, it showcases your portfolio in a way that shows your graphic design, photography and writing skills! Same goes for your resume! Make a really nice resume that look visually appealing but also well written, that way employers know you're a good pick for them! Also...trust your gut! You're probably good at what you do and doubt yourself! I do that all the time. Remember to always be open to opportunities and learning as you go along!
Updated
Crystal’s Answer
What does it take to be a successful journalist? Well, first, define what the word "successful" means to you. Everyone has a different definition of what success can look like for that person. My idea of success may look completely different from yours, so establish what that means for you. Then break that down into bite-size pieces. For example, becoming a successful journalist at your local news stations has a different path compared to be a successful journalist in the entertainment industry.
Once that has been narrowed down, take each bite-size step toward completion of every goal and mark it successful. Why? Because you don't despise the day of small beginnings. Each accomplishment counts, not matter the size. This will train your brain to see yourself as a doer and then you feel successful.
Being a successful journalist takes many avenues, education should be on every one of them. Companies love seeing people take the time to earn the knowledge that's required for the professional field, speak their language. Know what you need to know. Learn what you need to learn, then do what you learned.
Once that has been narrowed down, take each bite-size step toward completion of every goal and mark it successful. Why? Because you don't despise the day of small beginnings. Each accomplishment counts, not matter the size. This will train your brain to see yourself as a doer and then you feel successful.
Being a successful journalist takes many avenues, education should be on every one of them. Companies love seeing people take the time to earn the knowledge that's required for the professional field, speak their language. Know what you need to know. Learn what you need to learn, then do what you learned.
Updated
Kim’s Answer
To be a successful journalist, strong writing skills are fundamental. You need to write clearly, concisely, and engagingly. Curiosity and research skills are also crucial, as a good journalist digs for information, verifies facts, and conducts thorough research. Effective communication, both written and verbal, is essential, including interviewing people and presenting information accurately. Additionally, adaptability is important since the media landscape is constantly changing, and being open to learning new technologies and methods is key. Upholding journalistic ethics and maintaining integrity is vital for credibility.
Gaining experience is essential. Look for internships at newspapers, magazines, TV stations, or online media outlets; this hands-on experience is invaluable. Start freelancing for local publications or online platforms to build your portfolio and gain practical experience. Get involved with your college newspaper, radio station, or any other student media. Networking is also important—attend journalism conferences, join professional associations, and connect with journalists on social media.
Employers look for a strong portfolio showcasing your best work, including a variety of pieces that demonstrate your versatility. Relevant experience, such as internships, freelancing, and any published work, is crucial. While a degree in journalism or a related field is often preferred, practical experience can sometimes outweigh formal education. Proficiency with digital tools, social media, and multimedia content creation is increasingly important.
Both education and experience are important. Education provides foundational knowledge and skills, while practical experience demonstrates your ability to apply what you've learned in real-world scenarios. Creating a portfolio is a must. Include your best journalistic work, but also feel free to add other writing that showcases your skills, such as essays, creative writing, or blog posts. Just make sure it highlights your versatility and strengths as a writer.
Gaining experience is essential. Look for internships at newspapers, magazines, TV stations, or online media outlets; this hands-on experience is invaluable. Start freelancing for local publications or online platforms to build your portfolio and gain practical experience. Get involved with your college newspaper, radio station, or any other student media. Networking is also important—attend journalism conferences, join professional associations, and connect with journalists on social media.
Employers look for a strong portfolio showcasing your best work, including a variety of pieces that demonstrate your versatility. Relevant experience, such as internships, freelancing, and any published work, is crucial. While a degree in journalism or a related field is often preferred, practical experience can sometimes outweigh formal education. Proficiency with digital tools, social media, and multimedia content creation is increasingly important.
Both education and experience are important. Education provides foundational knowledge and skills, while practical experience demonstrates your ability to apply what you've learned in real-world scenarios. Creating a portfolio is a must. Include your best journalistic work, but also feel free to add other writing that showcases your skills, such as essays, creative writing, or blog posts. Just make sure it highlights your versatility and strengths as a writer.
Updated
Shirley’s Answer
Thank you for your question.
Hello! I can get you started.
Begin with the journalists that you admire - look at news program: local news, national news, and journalists in local and national newspapers.
Here are some examples: ABC News, NBC News, and CBS News—newspapers: The New York Times, Washington Post, LA Times.
Major news outlets - CNN, NPR
News Programs: Good Morning America and the Today Show.
Look at those sources and research the broadcasters and journalists.
Next, look at what schools have vital journalism programs in your state. Does your high school have a paper? If so, join it.
Decide what kind of journalist you want to become. You can be a beat reporter; you can specialize in an area like arts, entertainment, or sports. You can focus on politics or international news.
Once you have your focus - start practicing your craft. Write stories and post them to a blog. MEDIUM would be a good place to begin.
Good luck!
Shirley
Hello! I can get you started.
Begin with the journalists that you admire - look at news program: local news, national news, and journalists in local and national newspapers.
Here are some examples: ABC News, NBC News, and CBS News—newspapers: The New York Times, Washington Post, LA Times.
Major news outlets - CNN, NPR
News Programs: Good Morning America and the Today Show.
Look at those sources and research the broadcasters and journalists.
Next, look at what schools have vital journalism programs in your state. Does your high school have a paper? If so, join it.
Decide what kind of journalist you want to become. You can be a beat reporter; you can specialize in an area like arts, entertainment, or sports. You can focus on politics or international news.
Once you have your focus - start practicing your craft. Write stories and post them to a blog. MEDIUM would be a good place to begin.
Good luck!
Shirley