It’s no secret, there aren’t as many jobs for journalists as there use to be, but you can set a new path.
My message is simple.
Hire journalists.
I spent 12 years as a TV journalist. Once leaving the industry for communications, I worked with reporters almost every day.
Years ago, when I first started applying to communications jobs, I was frequently asked about my transferable skills. “After all, there’s no teleprompter here,” they’d chuckle to themselves.
I wasn’t laughing.
What they were really telling me is they had zero understanding of what a journalist does. The daily struggle and skill set needed to excel and tolerate a challenging industry.
With many reporters, producers and media folks transitioning to new careers, you need to understand that no one is fighting for you – you need to fight for yourself.
These are the skills your already have that will help you make that career move.
Journalism jobs aren’t for you, here’s why you should bet on yourself.
Writing – Conversational, short or long-form, tight deadlines, changing topics, multiple sources, multiple platforms, all while understanding word choice matters. Writing is a necessity, crafting a message is a skill. You know how to craft.
Communication – Few careers talk with people from all walks of life on a daily basis and get them to open up to a complete stranger. Knowing how to listen & talk with a stranger, colleague, C-suite, partner or anyone is a skill. You know better than most how to flex this muscle and turn it into action.
Storytelling – Journalists know what makes a compelling story. In today’s world content is everything. HR, internal/external comms, PR, media relations, corporate blogs, intranet articles, talking points, etc. all need a compelling story. You make it happen.
Relationships – People open up to journalists. Scoops come from sources, which are -> relationships. In their new roles, former journalists are often seen as a source of trust, reliable & can provide advice, support, even inspiration. You excel at building relationships.
Trust – The bedrock of journalism is trust. That what reporters say is true and factual. With so much content (see above) available every day, you want someone who radiates trust for your team, brand and company. You bring that.
What next?
When journalists are leaving the industry they don’t want to stop listening, talking, researching, writing and sharing. In fact, most can’t. It’s who they are. They’re just looking for someone to see all these skills and say “I want that!”
Better yet, turn those skills into a side hustle that adds revenue streams to your income, relies less on corporate America and gives you all the creative freedom you want.
Journalists bet on yourself, I doubt you’ll regret it.
