How to Start a Career in Journalism

Getting started in a career is often difficult no matter what the field is, even Journalism. Here are some tips help get you started.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Access to a computer
• A list of contacts
• Bachelor's degree

1. Networking is key to any career. The saying, "It's not what you know, but who," is very true at the early stages of career seeking. Start making a contact list while in school. Your contacts can be anyone you meet, such as professors, editors of newspapers and even journalists you might meet.

2. If you want to be a journalist, get a Bachelor's Degree in communications and journalism. Once you have the degree never stop writing or learning how to be a good writer. Attend writing seminars, writer's workshops and writer's groups. Anything you can do to sharpen your writing skills will make you more marketable as a writer.

3. Obtaining as much experience as you can get is very beneficial in obtaining your journalism career. Take on an internship. They are often unpaid positions, but they are a foot in the door and a great learning opportunity.

4. If you know someone who is a journalist, make them your mentor. If this person is thriving in their career and achieved a level of success they are a very valuable person to have around. They are a wealth of information and advice.

5. Read everything you can and stay informed. Keep current on today's events; politics, travel, sports, entertainment, etc. Always look for a story. They are out there ready to be written.

6. Freelance writing is often a good place to start. It offers you the opportunity to set your own pace and write about what you want. It may not have the perks of being on a newspaper, but you will gain valuable experience. It will get you noticed.

7. Discipline yourself to write every day. Send out queries, find a reputable blog, even journaling is a great way to stay in practice. Writing is not your typical 9 to 5 job. You have to always be looking for writing opportunities and ways to get published.

8. If you are offered a job at a tabloid, take it. It may not be what you want but you are writing. You are getting your name out there and getting yourself established.

Tips & Warnings

• Rejection is not a reflection on you personally.

• Don't give up.