Finding Freelance Journalism Work
Writers today have so many choices-- should I work full time,
should I be in print or broadcast media, how about freelance
work? The path you choose to tread is "your own." Never select a
career based on the needs of family/friends/or popular opinion.
The choice must stem from within--what is it you seek from your
work--money, a sense of fulfilment, and above all the freedom to
choose?
If you thirst for freedom, to follow a path that is yours then,
freelance journalism can offer a platter of choices---a chance
to create a niche.
As a freelancer, you can choose to work in specific genres and
write on specialized that inspire you. You can strive to become
"the voice of the people."
Wondering how to find assignments? There are so many avenues
just waiting to be explored.--
* Begin by freelancing for your school/college/university
newspaper.
* Gain work experience by working with the staff reporters at
your local newspaper, television channel, or radio station. This
would depend on whether you choose the print journalism or
broadcasting.
* Create a network of other professionals in your field - join
online sites, be a part of discussion forums, e-mail news
groups, and freelance groups. Networking will put you in touch
with opportunities that would otherwise pass you by.
* Register your profile with samples of your work on freelance
writers/journalist listings on the Internet. Ensure that your
profile is informative as well as provocative. Be sure to list
clearly, the field/fields you are interested in--specify the
media as well as themes such as science, technology, art, or
politics and so on.
* Check job boards regularly.
* Join associations for journalists -- not just in your area but
internationally. Many of these have: a web site on which
assignments are posted or a system by which relevant assignments
are e-mailed to you for a small fee.
* Subscribe to magazines that feature assignments/ job
opportunities.
* Consider becoming a freelance writer for online news agencies.
* Hire an agency to locate work on your behalf.
* Use the Internet to search for broadcasters, newspapers,
magazines, and e-zines that offer assignments. Be sure to check
if the assignments offered are remunerative or non-paying
assignments.
* Look at media organizations. Attend workshops and seminars.
These often present good opportunities to meet with people who
can suggest companies/contacts.
Create a profile that makes your abilities and experience "stand
out" or shine---state clearly what your ambitions are, why you
have chosen to concentrate on a specific field, and why you
think you're suitable. Detail what you can offer that others
can't.
Be sure to detail skills, education, interests, and experience.
Provide samples that showcase your prowess as a journalist.
Display your knowledge of the company's needs, your research
abilities, and your willingness to go the extra mile. Back
yourself up with reviews of your work as well as recommendations
from other employers.
Perseverance and patience are the two cornerstones of building a
great career in journalism -so be determined, plan ahead, and
send out your profile to all concerned. If you send out a
hundred, just a few may respond. But don't feel dejected.
Opportunities are bound to come along.