Ten ways to get into Journalism

Journalism is one of those sticky careers with so many in roads its hard to know where to start. Your best way in depends on your age and what kind of journalism you want to work in. The 'Penguin Careers' guide states that 'most entrant into Journalism are graduates' but this is not always a prerequisite. Here are some useful ways to begin.

1- Study a degree in a subject that interests you. There is a growing market for specialist 'content' in magazines and newspapers so if you want to specialise then start now and build on your degree with relevant experience.

2- Be a generalist and write content on a variety of topics as a freelancer. Getting work relies on your ability to target publications with your work and get them interested in it. So gaining a broad CV of published content, be that, a blog, one off articles or writing features for writing competitions can get you the 'back story' you will need to impress top editors and publications

3- Approach your local newspaper and ask if you can write a 'local interest' story or a piece on something local that you are knowledgeable about. Getting the ball rolling is a key step.

4- If you have already been to University then consider a post graduate program run by the NCTJ (The National Council for the training of Journalists). These can be run be an employer or done at university or via distance learning and course offer an array of specialist qualifications that can help you carve a niche.

5- If you are considering a career change into Journalism then consider what transferable skills you have that could be used in your new career. For example if you are an engineer then consider writing for technical or trade journals where you're expertise will be greeted warmly be editors.

6- If you are at University then get involved with Student publications. If you want to go into TV then get involved with your Student Union and begin pro-actively looking for news worthy stories.

7- Keep up to date with the news, it can give you inspiration and allows you to reflect on issues in a timely manner which is crucial for relevant content. Why not try and get on the radio by interviewing local 'celebs' or inspirational people and getting their story (and hence your story) in the paper or online.

8- The more you write and submit work the more work you will get (if you are consistently good). Use social networking sites such as 'LinkedIn' to build contacts.

9- Be personable approachable and friendly. The more of a people person your are, the easier it is to conduct interviews, set people at ease so that they relax and tell you an interesting story. Don't get offended easily as you will have to deal with some difficult people when interviewing.

10 - Consider diversifying into Photography (if you have the eye and technical aptitude). This will help keep the money rolling in and is a nice compliment to writing as it is totally different. You can then look for jobs in travel journalism to combine these skills or keep them as separate skills. The choices are really up to you!! 

PS- Work hard and be enthusiastic. You can succeed if you can write well, are imaginative or technically knowledgeable. Remember that you are 'only as good as you're last article' so keep motivated and begin a career that allows you to do what you love (most of the time!!) Good Luck.