The first step towards building a career in journalism is obviously is formal education. Students who have a flair for writing and a fairly good knowledge of current affairs are most inclined to this field. There are innumerable colleges that specialize in graduate and post graduate courses in journalism. While joining any such course, the credits of college must be paid attention to. Alongside these programs, there are other small time courses that teach students other basic principles of writing. These courses are a small addition to the academic knowledge being imparted in the college.
In today's times, the youth is constantly striving to achieve the best quality education and is determined to build a niche for themselves in any field they decide to join. Most of the students who are studying to become journalists have a very clear picture of what kind of journalists they want to become. On the basis of this ambition, they join one of the small time newspapers that recruit students for part time posts. Such job opportunities broaden the students' horizons and introduce them to the practical aspects of journalism. Also, the students get into the habit of working in a professional environment. Working for school publications also gives good exposure.
A journalist's job is to make a particular piece of news interesting as well as informative. He should know how to say the right things in the right manner. Since journalism is very relative, there is no right or wrong way of reporting a matter. Different people may have different views on various topics; hence the journalist has to be cautious as to not hurt sentiments of the readers.
The journalist's career is constantly evolving. It requires working in close collaboration with the editor and other reporters. Due to this reason, good interpersonal skills are always appreciated in a journalist. Also, meeting deadlines is a part of a journalist's everyday life. A good journalist is someone one who can efficiently meet deadlines without compromising on the quality of writing. The payment varies according to the journalism work done and thus, journalists must try to put in their best effort at all times.
The remuneration paid to a journalist is dependent on his skills, experience and expertise. The wage rates also differ based on the size of the publication and the volumes of their business. It can range from $30,000 to $ 60,000 or more depending on the newspaper or magazine one is working for. In order to grow and build a successful career, a journalist should keep networking among the business circles and maintain cordial relations with the people from the same professional background. A capable journalist can help the publication gain goodwill and with his constant great news coverage and stories, he/she can become immensely popular.
