What's the best way to break into the field of journalism if one doesn't have prior work experience?

Question

Since college, I've held down primarily paralegal jobs. Recently, I took an assesment test and found out I would be happier as a journalist. I've rec'd compliments from friends in the past about my writing style and was suggested to check out an occupation as a writer. What's the best way to enter this arena? I'm not overly picky about my first job.. it doesn't have to be for a major publication.

Answer 1

Start your own website or blog with you writing skills.

Work for enewsreference.com??

Answer 2

Start immediately by writing. You can work another job while writing columns part time for various newspapers.

Join a writing group in your area, and learn the craft.
Submit your writing to local newspapers.
Write Letters to the Editor and get well known.
Keep a personal journal.

One of my good friends still has not given up her "Day Job", since the pay is good. But she has submitted articles for national magazines and newspapers.

Scott Adams, the "Dilbert" cartoonist had become very popular in syndication. Five years later, he was still working his DAY JOB, then the pointy haired boss asked him if he thinks that he should QUIT. Scott did, then went on a national speaking tour.

You see, you can WRITE, no matter where you are. JUST DO IT.

Many bottom rung newspaper reporters make very low salaries. Great stories often come from independent writers, leaving these regular reporters out chasing ambulances and talking to the police about one boring case after another. The break can only come when you can become an expert on a specific subject, then WRITE as an expert.

Answer 3

I'm glad you are not "overly picky" about your first job...it's not easy to break into journalism.

First, if you live in a big city, you might find it easier to locate a newspaper, magazine or publishing house (books) that will take you on as a copy editor/proof reader.

Pay is not high, the work can be boring, but it is a start. Make sure you hone your skills by taking writing workshops and classes, tell your employer this, it shows you want to learn.

Enter your works in legitimate contests, submit it for publication in small monthly's or small newspapers (which is what I did).

If you have knowledge about a particular subject, and want to do more research, write a book.

You didn't mention what your major was in college. Do what makes you happy, what uses your skills to help yourself and others.

Answer 4

You'll need to try to get on with a smaller paper in a small town and work up from there unless you have friends in the business that can get you on with a larger paper. There are thousands of people wanting the job and very few openings, so you'll need to amass a portfolio.

You can start to get a reputation through sending essays and articles to the local paper and/or to news magazines to see if you can start getting published a "stringer" or part-time writer..

Answer 5

Start with small local type organizations even if it is a neighborhood thing. Get a good or be a good photographer. Even work for free if need be until you build experience and a reputation. Save all of your writings and dates published. Do interviews if possible. Don't be afraid to tackle sensitive issues.

Answer 6

the smaller papers are easiest. you might also offer to do free columns. or do photo articles and send the to the major publications. you might get lots sf rejections, but when they accept you article they pay.

Answer 7

Join the communist party. Only communists are hired in journalism these days.

Answer 8

shove books up ur @ss

Answer 9

think

Answer 10

ORAL