What is a Broadcast Journalist?
Broadcast Journalists research and report news across a variety of channels, to include: TV, radio and online. Some Broadcast Journalists will be centre screen, working as presenters and reporting on the news in front of the camera, or on the radio. Other Broadcast Journalists will work off screen, researching story details and interviewing people. Often Broadcast Journalists will specialise in a particular type of news, for instance sports or politics.
A Day in the Life of a Broadcast Journalist
Although the role of a Broadcast Journalist varies by experience, we have put together a a brief summary of the things you should expect in your role as a Broadcast Journalist:
- Research – A large part of your role will include finding and researching potential and existing stories as well as leads and subjects for interview using the internet, historical archives and other repositories.
- Interviews – If you are in a front facing Broadcast Journalist role you will also be expected to record live and pre-recorded interviews and reports. You may also be expected to write up these pieces and help create online content.
- Press Briefings – Attending press briefings may be another requirement where you will need to be prepared to ask questions, take notes and work to tight deadlines.
- Out of office – As a Broadcast Journalist much of your time will be spent travelling to different locations to cover stories. Due to the sporadic nature of the job role, you could often find yourself being called to a job at the last moment to cover a breaking story. Dedication is key in this job role and you must be prepared to work long and irregular hours.
Key skills
- Good research skills
- Good verbal and written ability – able to speak clearly and effectively
- Ability to work under pressure and to deadlines
- Creative
- Work effectively in a team
- Good communication skills
How to become a Broadcast Journalist
There are multiple routes to becoming a Broadcast Journalist. Academic entry would require attaining a degree in Journalism or a related subject, or you could join a training scheme. Related subjects could include: English, History, Media Studies and Drama. Failing this, you could start out as a Print Journalist or have experience working on local radio stations.
Become a Broadcast Journalist today
If you are ready for the next step in your career, why not take a look at the latest Broadcast Journalist vacancies on our jobs board? You can view our latest vacancies here.