The greatest job aspiration for a journalist is to become the editor of a magazine. This professional oversees content written by editorial staff or freelancers. In addition, it ensures that the writers' overview, articles, style and tone suit the newspaper's target audience, i.e. readers and subscribers.
Steps
Step 1. First, you need to train for this job
Most directors should have a degree in Arts or Communication Sciences, and perhaps a Masters in Journalism. A person who has had a successful career in another field or has in-depth knowledge in the fashion, technology, tourism or other industry could still make their way despite not having such a degree. In addition, it is advisable to learn and acquire advanced computer skills.
Step 2. Look for an internship at a reputable newsroom
Internships guarantee good training and allow you to gain experience. Most interns volunteer to gain experience in the industry. Paid internships are limited, and getting one can not only provoke fierce competition, it requires credentials of a certain depth. Being constantly updated on general news and on the news of the field you deal with is equally important.
Step 3. Look for a job in a magazine
Writers who end up leading an entire editorial team usually start working as interns or assistant directors. Journalists' resumes may vary according to personal professional experiences. If you stand out, are reliable and knowledgeable, you will certainly have a distinct competitive advantage.
- When listing your work experiences on your resume, also include jobs that seem less important to you or that you have done unpaid, such as an editorial written for a school magazine or a newspaper.
- Newsletters or blogs that you have voluntarily written about popular topics also enrich your resume.
Step 4. Find out about the average salaries in the industry
As with any other job, the salary a director receives depends on various factors: experience, training, skills and market. The annual income therefore changes considerably, but obviously at the beginning you will earn less. Before looking for a job, it is advisable to find out about the salary ranges in the field of your interest.
Step 5. Cultivate good interpersonal skills to be successful
To become a good director, knowledge acquired from books is not enough. It is important to look at the full picture, not just dwell on the charm of this profession. Here are some variables to consider regarding this position:
- The directors are in constant contact with the management (intermediate and superior), members of the editorial staff, freelancers, designers, other directors and the public.
- Every day, you have to make fundamental decisions about production, design, content, sales and advertising.
- The art of communication requires different skills: good interpersonal relationships, listening, understanding and interaction with different types of people.
- Every day, you have to face a difficult and demanding task: to make decisions quickly, even difficult ones. It is a constant and mandatory process. As a result, you need to be pretty confident and have good self-esteem.
Advice
- Attend press conferences.
- Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way to network and join groups of other journalists or writers.
- When looking for an internship or a job, consult your university's career guidance center. They might give you some free tips.
Warnings
- Be careful when dealing with professional services that require you to pay to look for a job for you.
- Beware of scams and job offers that don't convince you.
- Be wary if a proposition is too good to be true.
