How to Become an Online Journalist

Online journalism can be a challanging yet rewarding job

Many people consider online journalism to be their dream job. However, it can be a difficult field to break into. You must have all of the skills of a reporter plus many Internet-related skills such as web design and knowledge of HTML code. You must also be prepared to start by accepting jobs that you may not like at a modest level of pay. Do not expect to become a sucessful online journalist overnight. It will take time and hard work. Here are some tips for breaking into the field of online journalism.

Instructions

How to Become an Online Journalist

1. Have a passion for writing. This is one field where talent isn't enough. You must be willing to work hard, often for long hours, usually for rather modest wages. The best online journalists are those who have positive attitudes and great people skills.

2. Get real world experience. Before trying to break into the online market, try to get some experience in the real world. Work in a newsroom and interact with people. This is invaluable in learning how to communicate and write like a reporter.

3. Become familiar with online tools. Use and experiment with RealAudio, Photoshop, streaming video, Shockwave and other applications that will enhance your writing. On the Internet, writing a great article isn't enough. You need to be able to incorporate pictures, video and audio into your text.

4. Consider taking a job that isn't your ideal. Be open minded and think about applying for jobs that you may not love but that will give you experience. Think of these jobs as stepping stones to your dream job.

5. Look at online job listings. Check out sites like Craigslist.com, Monster.com, Hotjobs.com and Careers.com. Many of these sites have options for searching for jobs in writing, and you are often able to narrow down the job pool even further to only include telecommuting jobs.

6. Get published. Write an article and get it published on the web. Even if you don't get paid, having published clips to show potential employers is essential.

Tips & Warnings

• An online journalist must have all of the skills as a regular reporter. These include interview skills, research skills, accuracy and good writing skills.

• Become familiar with HTML and web design. These skills will enhance your marketability.

• Study news websites. See how sucessful writers incorporate links, polls, audio and video into their articles.

• In order to break into the field of online journalism, be prepared to work for little pay and write articles that you may not be very interested in.

Resources

• Online Journalist Resources
• Craig's List
• Monster.com
• Writer's Markets