Things to Include on Sports Reporter Resume
A job as a sports reporter can be exciting, but the qualifications needed to land a job are numerous. Knowing what to include on a resume is the first step toward finding the dream job. Education, experience and personality all play a role in the hiring process. To gain a competitive edge, be sure to craft a resume that includes all the relevant information.
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Education
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Depending on what field of sports reporting you desire, employers will be looking for a degree in an applicable field of study such as journalism or mass communications. Though the resume need not list all relevant classes completed, a mention of a specific class in which the applicant excelled is a good addition.
Experience
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A potential employer wants to know the work history of a potential candidate, especially experience that is relevant to the open position. Work experience should be listed chronologically with the most recent positions listed first. Recent graduates with little or no job experience should list internships whether paid or not. When summarizing work experience, highlight skills that will be important in a sports reporting position. Noting that your previous positions required keen writing skills, public speaking, research and working flexible schedules will provide a recruiter with a better picture of why you may be qualified for a position.
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Qualifications
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In addition to education and work experience, recruiters for sports reporter positions look for other relevant qualifications in applicants. List any team sports played while attending school, highlighting any awards or championships. Extra-curricular activities such as writing for the school newspaper, working with the school radio or television station, coaching a youth athletic team or any volunteer work that demonstrates leadership skills will bolster a resume. In-depth knowledge of a particular sport by being a player, coach or researcher should also be stated. The ability to meet deadlines is a required skill for sport reporting, so list any experience that demonstrates abilities or accomplishments in that area.
References
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References are an important aspect of any resume. The resume for a sports reporter should include any references related to the applicant's sports experience. Coaches, other sports journalists and supervisors during internships would all be solid references to include on a resume. If you come recommended by a current employee of the organization, using him as a reference can be helpful. Be sure to obtain permission from any reference before including it on a resume.
Tips
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Attach writing samples to your resume. If you have previously published work, the samples should be copies of the tear sheets from the publication. If you have broadcast experience, include a DVD of the performance.
Sports broadcasting is a competitive market, and jobs with major publications or television stations usually require several years of hands-on experience. Applicants getting started in the field should consider small newspapers or online publications. These may offer more opportunities and can serve as a stepping stone to more prominent employers.
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References
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