Expert: Patrick J. Murray - 9/27/2011

Question
Hi Patrick,

I was hoping you could offer some career advice. I graduated in 2010 from Lehigh University with majors in journalism and international relations. I realized too late that I would ideally like to specialize in broadcast, and as such missed the opportunity to find a journalism school with a broadcast specialization. But I did find an internship for both summers while I was in school with United Nations Television (a broadcast/live feed station located in the UN basement). In addition, I graduated with high honors and additional departmental honors in journalism.

My problem is that I have been unable to find work in the field. As in any opportunity. I worked for a few months with an online magazine, but had to quit after I was sexually harassed by my boss. I have now been unemployed six months and found some volunteer work with WNYC (New York City's NPR station), but I would really like to find anything more focused on broadcast news writing. While a full time salary would be nice, I am completely willing to take on any volunteer position or internship. I am confident I can do a quality job with a broadcast news program - it is just a matter of finding someone willing to give me a chance.

To make my long story short, do you know of any broadcast outlets that would take a chance on someone like me (an extraordinarily hard worker and strong writer with a passion for broadcast news)?

Thank you in advance for your time. I really appreciate your help.

Liz

Answer
Dear Liz,

Thanks for stopping by.....

Your dilemma is shared by so many others as the economy continues to be soft and the world of broadcasting is facing an ever-changing revolution. The "standard" jobs that used to be a part of a broadcast station and other media outlets are slowly evolving to a more online presence.

Having said that, there still will be news and there will be outlets pursuing stories which require writers, editors, producers, etc. The issue here comes to the lowering of salaried for these jobs as they have not become specialized talents as in past years. You are expected to shoot, edit, write, and produce stories/segments through to completion - and know how to do it.

The good news for someone like you is that establishments are always looking for bright young talent to provide those services. But like any job or employment in general, some education, some experience, some talent, and a pinch of luck always helps!

So I have a few thoughts for you...first are you looking in NYC area or are you available to move? What salary requirements do you need to live on? Can you write news stories that not only report but create interest? Can you write to video?

I am going to include a few websites here that offer journalism employment. I do not have a specific place that will give you the opportunity for employment as these needs change within organizations sometimes monthly. What I will tell you is this - go to a site like Linked-In, which is the Facebook for business, and create a profile and then make some contacts. When you make those contacts, ask about what type of people they are seeking for positions in their organization. The key here is to make contacts. Most hires don't come from the Internet and finding jobs. Most jobs are awarded to competent people but by supervisors who have met or had as an intern someone they are familiar with their work. The personal side of this business cannot be understated. You need to know people who become aware of your spirit and ability. So pick up the phone if you make a contact, and just ask about the business - trust me, you will get some negative responses but the positive ones will be gold!

If you have follow-up thoughts or questions or thoughts, please stop back. I would like to assist in any way that I could - but be mindful - starting at zero you have a lot of legwork to do - but it will pay off in the end if it is truly what your passion is in life....

Best wishes...

Patrick Murray

Here are some of those sites (I don't endorse any web site -- but these offer jobs)This should get you started:

http://www.journalismjobs.com/

http://www.newsjobs.net/category/country/usa

http://www.iwantmedia.com/jobs/

http://www.job-search-engine.com/keyword/television-news-writing/

http://www.linkedin.com/skills/skill/News_Writing

http://www.simplyhired.com/a/jobs/list/q-news+writer/_?gclid=COHmjpHTvqsCFUt_5Qo