Advice columns are sometimes the source of tell-me-something-I-don’t-already-know wisdom. Being a pessimist and a frequent researcher, I rarely rely on these means of aid when in doubt. But, the career advice column written by Joe Grimm, is an exception. http://www.poynter.org/column.asp?id=77
The column details a question posed by a young undergraduate journalism student who wants to know how to improve the chance of hiring after a college degree. The student is grappling with the old question, “How do I get a job without experience and how do I get experience with out a job?” This student journalist’s attempts to earn an internship placement are hindered by naiveté. The exact problem for this person may be related to their accelerated high school completion from dual enrollment. However, the problematic task of earning credentials in your chosen field beginning from entry-level is one faced by most students during college or right after they graduate.
The columnist asserts that young people must continually “Keep plugging and stay positive,” while hoping for the best. This is good advice but I would add a few secrets of my success to the list.
In my experiences with the business of journalism, and this is also true in many parts of life, remembering the adage “It’s not what you know but who you know.” is very useful. Many people will cry foul and misinterpret the meaning of this saying by believing it holds some malevolent elitist sentiment. However, I interpret it’s meaning as democratic and prefer to believe all things are possible if you have a pleasant and humble demeanor with everyone you meet. I think it asserts that personal interactions and networking are some of the best methods for gaining friends and benefactors. I recommend talking to anyone who is willing about their experiences in the field you are perusing. Creating professional connections in the geographic area is a must. Every connection is a possible story source since you never know where inspiration will spring forth.
What do you think is the best strategy for gaining experience in journalism?
1 comment:
I believe it is best to start out small. Write for some local papers, sometimes just writing for a small paper can you get noticed by some big people. Try hard send your pieces everywhere its possible, and yes I also believe that part of it is based on who you know. Having a good attitude towards people and gaining their respects can get you good deals.
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