By getting published right? That is the answer to the title question, but the more challenging question is how? This is a topic that journalists and freelance writers find themselves pondering upon on a regular basis. In fact, we often feel that we hold excellent pieces of writing in our hands yet it doesn’t seem to go anywhere apart from on the fridge door. The clue is; perseverance.
One may argue that perseverance is needed to reach any career goal. This is more the case in the media industry due to the sheer ruthlessness of its nature. It is indeed a dog eat dog world, where you are in direct competition 24/7 (it is no 9-5 that’s for sure). As exciting as this world may seem, breaking news and being the first on the scene; the process is often very long, drawn out and painstakingly. Nine times out of ten journalists don’t produce a newsworthy story or make the editor’s cut. You must be physically and mentally prepared for this, whatever type of journalism you wish to get into, from sport to fashion, news and politics to celeb magazines, it is a world of let down. From this you may have just thrown away your dream but never fear; with the troughs come the peaks and that thrill of nailing a story induces more adrenaline in us that are true hacks at heart, than any literal rollercoaster.
In addition to perseverance, the other P to consider is: platforms. That is, which platform you prefer to use to transmit your story to the world. This is an increasingly tricky subject what with the speed that technology changes. Newspapers are still the crown jewel of journalism despite their decline with the rise of the internet; journalists are spread thinner and thinner. Although, it is only a newspaper that will still fund investigative, lengthy pieces which will then spread through the other formats in various diluted forms like wildfire. If you are seeking details and facts then print is the answer.
My advice when it comes to choosing your platform would be to mull over what kind of journalism it is you wish to undertake as the main bulk of your work and start from there. But by no means limit yourself. As a 21st century journalist you are expected to be an expert in all trades; the written word, television, photographic, online and radio. It is not unusual to be combining all of these aspects. As budgets tighten, you become the one man band of reporting; no longer armed with just a jot pad and pen, but with a Dictaphone, camera and filming equipment also on hand.
If you are going after print journalism then start writing about anything and everything as soon as possible and save multiple copies in several locations in addition to printing off a hard copy for your portfolio. Your portfolio should be something you can take to an interview to display a variety of content.
The next aspect to think about is: published or unpublished. If published no matter how great or small the piece is placed in, keep a cutting ensuring that the date, time and title of publication are visible. Or if web based, take a screen shot and print. It may seem rather monotonous when you have been writing for a number of years, but it is a necessary way for yourself, and potential employers to track your development as a writer. It is also essential for journalists to be articulate, creative and be able to write cohesively.
A Scriptoeris Tip : pop into the office of your local rag, they are hideously understaffed these days and so normally they are more than grateful to have someone spin them a few lines.
Writing is easy to practice. Television on the other hand, is a whole different kettle of fish. Most people in television don’t even start with that aim. Many who work on broadcasting news, documentaries, and factual series began in print or radio. This is because the two traits key to success in telly is confidence and charisma. Print and radio lay the foundations, but TV lets you experiment further. Attaining experience working in front of a camera and on a microphone is key. Whether this be setting up your own YouTube channel and creating a portfolio of clips with you on screen, or taking part in student media and making promotional films for the University. As with print, it is important that you can prove the longevity of your interest in the subject area you wish to enter (politics, programmes for children, wildlife documentaries etc).
For radio, similar skills are required but in this case you have to realise that all ears are on you. This may sound obvious given the dimensions of the platforms we are discussing but with radio you are the only point of focus, in TV you are part of a greater package of sound and imagery. Most of TV is scripted, much of radio is not. Therefore, you need to consider your style. It is important to also note that local radio stations are often crying out for an extra pair of hands and so make contact and ask to go along for a show or two, learn the equipment and who knows? Maybe even do a broadcast or two. You don’t know until you try. Hospital and student radios are also great for this.
If wishing to pursue online journalism, being prudent is crucial because you have to be far more calculated, cautious and precise about the work you undertake. Due to its vastness, everyone can do everything, whereas that is not the case with the more traditional mediums. It is always best to have a specific purpose in mind. For instance, don’t start blogs about several different topics. If you want to be an international journalist start a blog discussing international affairs, not about what your cat did last night or who is going to win I’m a Celebrity. Your side blog if you like, should be more of a professional diary. Do your research and know your facts, you need to differentiate yourself from the masses.
To conclude, to be a successful journalist one must be persistent, confident and creative. You must also be able to market yourself and articulate your ideas clearly and professionally. You need to build up a portfolio of experience across a variety of platforms and be read and knowledgeable in your chosen subject area. You also need a solid understanding and appreciation of the language you wish to work with and the ability to be able to look outside the box and question every little last detail. You must also be brave, tireless and nosey; all whilst remembering charm and manners can get you a long way. You will develop a sixth sense which will allow you to hunt out stories like a cat to a mouse.