How to Start a Career in Broadcast Journalism

Broadcast journalist may work for television news stations or radio stations. Most broadcast journalist will need to have a four year college degree in journalism or a related field. Specific responsibilities for broadcast journalists may vary depending on the station you work for. However there are some basic guidelines to start your career.

Instructions

1. Make a demo tape. In addition to a college degree and resume a demo tape may help you secure that first job. A demo tape should include examples of your broadcast ability. Include any broadcast segments that were filmed. These can include reports from your schools news station, or internship.

2. Consider contacts you made during school or internships. Broadcast journalism is a competitive field. Calling stations you worked for during an internship may lead to a position.

3. Do background research. Once you secure your first job you want to be a thorough journalist. When you will be reporting on a story it's important to do research if possible. Researching and understanding what your reporting about will help you ask the right questions during an interview and get a better story.

4. Come up with story ideas. Broadcast journalists may be expected to develop story ideas. Become familiar with your community and what issues are concerning. Pitching story ideas will make you more of an asset to the news team.

5. Develop good interview skills. A broadcast journalist will often need to interview all types of people in various situations. Good listening skills are essential.

6. Be willing to relocate. Broadcast journalists should be willing to move to a new city to advance in their careers. Depending on your career goals you may need to move several times during your broadcast career.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind broadcast journalists may work irregular hours. News happens around the clock and many radio and news stations report 24 hours a day.