Journalism is a career that will place you at the cutting edge of current affairs and public debate; your task will be to keep the public well informed and help guide debate and inquiry surrounding the issues of the day. A career as a journalist will see you taking an active and essential role in the community which is served by your publication, building a significant network of contacts and maintaining an up to the minute understanding of the issues important to your audience, all the while proving yourself in a professional role that demands initiative, accuracy and the ability to work to deadline.
What skills are needed?
Journalism requires a high level of writing, editing and research skills. You will need to be able to research and write high quality copy which is subject to various legal and ethical considerations, often under pressure to meet deadlines or adjust to rapidly developing situations. A good journalist will be inquisitive and able to actively search out stories, sometimes working irregular hours to do so, as news can happen at any time.
You will need to be able to relate to and communicate with people from all walks of life, building trust and confidence so they will share their experiences and opinions and become part of a network of contacts that Bryce Johns, editor of the Waikato Times, describes as the key to news gathering.
“Without good contacts, people who trust you and tell you things, the most interesting and exclusive stories don’t come out.”
What subjects or qualifications do I need?
The research and writing skills you will gain at Waikato University will provide a good background for a career in journalism, particularly in subjects such as Public Relations, Marketing, Media Studies and Communication Studies (all of which are available as part of the Bachelor of Communication Studies at Waikato). However, most employers will require some further study, usually in the form of a one year diploma of journalism which will include work practice at local publications. Specific industry training may be required for television or radio journalists.
Employers will want to see good references and examples of your work; it is never too early to start getting published and getting to know the editors of your local papers. Volunteer for local newspapers, magazines or your student rag while keeping a portfolio of your published work. To get the attention of an employer, Bryce Johns advises you need two things: “credible people backing you, and proof you can write and break stories.”
What career opportunities will I have?
Though most journalists begin their career in smaller, local publications, there are abundant opportunities for lateral movement and advancement within the industry. The skills and networks developed during a career in journalism are also in high demand in the corporate and government sectors, particularly in the areas of media and public relations, allowing you to pursue a diverse range of career paths armed with the technical, professional and personal skills sharpened by a career in journalism.
For more information see:
http://www.careers.govt.nz/jobs/writing-and-publishing/journalist/
Thanks to Bryce Johns
Editor, Waikato Times