Broadcast Journalist
Broadcast journalists work for television stations, radio stations and internet news services, providing reports and comments on current events. Their work can involve reacting to story 'leads' or generating story ideas, researching the background to stories, preparing scripts and interviewing people involved in a story.
They work closely with camera/sound crews and may operate some equipment. Some broadcast journalists specialise in a particular type of news story, for example political commentary or sports reporting.
Working hours can be long and unpredictable. They may include early mornings, evenings, nights, weekends and bank holidays. Most broadcast journalists are based in offices, but they spend a lot of time out and about, covering stories. They may have to work outside in all weather conditions and travel anywhere in the UK or overseas, often at very short notice.
Salaries can range from around £10,000 to £45,000 a year. A broadcast journalist should:
- have an excellent command of English and strong communication skills
- be able to talk to people from a wide range of backgrounds
- be inquisitive and able to ask relevant questions
- have storytelling skills
- have research skills
- be able to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- be interested in current affairs.
There are opportunities in local television and radio all over the UK, although the national services tend to be concentrated in London. Many jobs are offered on short-term contracts or as freelance work. Entry is very competitive. Work experience in areas like hospital radio, student and community broadcasting, local radio and newspapers is an essential first step.
Almost all entrants are graduates. Most degrees are acceptable, but there are a number of degrees and postgraduate qualifications specifically relevant to broadcast journalism. Adult entry is possible.
There may be on-the-job training for new entrants, including the use of specialist software and technical equipment. Short courses may also be available. Some broadcasting organisations offer bursary schemes and traineeships.
Broadcast journalists often move from local radio into national radio or television, and from local television into national television. An experienced reporter may be promoted to correspondent and specialise in a particular subject such as war, politics or royalty. Some become presenters, work on documentaries, or move into investigative journalism.
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