Profile of Journalism Jobs
Journalists must have the ability to express themselves clearly and quickly when writing or speaking. As a journalist you will gather and disseminate newsworthy information concerning developments relating to various issues, trends, people and current events in your own personally creative way that catches and hooks the attention of your readers and viewers, while respecting the professional journalism code of ethics by maintaining credible, impartial fairness, accuracy and objectivity as well as public accountability. In this, manner journalists apply their skills to obtaining newsworthy information, synthesizing it, and making it available to the waiting public.
Patiently and persistently, journalists endure irregular hours as well as friendly and unfriendly individuals and agreeable and unpleasant situations, while maintaining the credibility, objectivity, and impartiality expected of a journalist. Journalists may have the opportunity to cover major events and other news from a balanced point of view, while always avoiding any conflict of interests and observing the strictures against wrongfully harming the reputation of others. Good journalists understand and obey the laws concerning copyright, while often working under pressure to meet deadlines. You may work inside or outdoors, in any type of weather, keeping in mind that sometimes travel is a necessary part of interviewing and reporting.
The Journalism Job Outlook
The job outlook for journalism jobs clearly is holding its own; it is steady, although there has been little to no change in terms of new positions opening up. There are jobs that become available, however, when there is a need to replace employees who transfer from or permanently leave their jobs. As always, there is intense competition for these positions in large metropolitan areas and at national broadcasting stations and networks or national newspapers and magazines. However, small local news stations and publications offer many more opportunities for aspiring journalists, as do online media, including online magazines and newspapers. Those who have the advantage in the world of journalism today are those who have a background in journalism and other relevant fields such as economics, biology and politics or those who have a degree in journalism.
Available Positions for Journalists
Journalist jobs come in a variety of areas, depending on your chosen area of interest; types of available positions may include broadcasting, magazine work, newspaper work, photojournalism, public relations, and general journalism. Within these areas available work may include such positions as writer, reporter, editor, news designer, photo editor, producer, analyst, copywriter, media editor, staff writer, communications or editorial assistant, local news editor, news manager or any number of other available regular or specialized journalism positions.
Education and Training Requirements
Some of the required courses of study for gaining a job as a journalist may include journalism and media studies, possible including concentrations in broadcast or print journalism as well as integrated marketing communications, any required minor, electives, and English composition and literature. Knowledge of public relations, advertising, media ethics, global and mass media and a variety of other academic studies as well as one or more professional internships are generally required. To succeed, journalists also should gain a good understanding of technical skills, such as typing and shorthand, research skills and interviewing techniques, and the ability to understand and utilize audio equipment, multimedia, graphic design software, HTML, desktop publishing, word processing equipment and an assortment of computer software can also be beneficial. You will find that having a well-formed base of general knowledge and a healthy interest in current events goes a long way when you are seeking employment in the field of journalism. Keep in mind that depending upon the job requirements, many employers today more readily consider hiring employees who have a degree in journalism, knowledge of mass communications and have experience acquired from news related internships, broadcasting stations and publications, including school newspapers.
Various Duties of a Journalist
Journalism jobs include performing various tasks, from doing research and reports and assessing their suitability for broadcasting or publication, to attending events, interviewing, investigating, observing, or interpreting the news. Other tasks include gathering and analyzing information, writing and editing within an established format as well as presenting the news on the air. Good journalists are able to cover any topic of interest and may have the opportunity to perform various other specialized tasks according to their knowledge, experience, or training. Specializations may include copywriter, news reporter, technical or shorthand reporter, arts administrator, leader and feature writer or columnist, just to name a few. However, many journalists begin by reporting various routine events as requested by their editors.
The pay scale for journalists varies according to the experience, knowledge and skills of the journalist and based on his or her individual duties. Pay scale tends to range from the lower to middle $20,000s up to $90,000 depending upon the circumstances.
Conclusion
Journalism jobs involve getting newsworthy information about current events to the public as soon as it happens or at least as soon as possible. However, journalism involves so very much more depending upon your skills, talents, education, and experience. There are great variations in profiles, training and education requirements, available positions, job outlooks, as well as pay for journalists. It all depends upon your own personal perspective and interests as to which job title you may hold as a journalist. Always stay alert to any opportunities for reporting, gain the education and skills you need, and you will achieve your goals as a journalist.
