Broadcast Journalist
Broadcast journalists are the faces and voices of news and current affairs programmes. They also work behind the scenes, gathering news and writing scripts.
They must marry their journalistic skills with an ability to present each story through the most telling sounds or pictures.
What's Involved?
Their daily tasks might include:
- generating ideas for stories, or taking a brief from a news editor/producer
- researching stories through personal contacts, the internet and other sources
- deciding on the most appropriate angle to approach the story booking and briefing interviewees
- recording interviews - in person, or through telephone or studio links - and sometimes conducting them live
- speaking live on air
Broadcast journalists are usually contracted to work for 39 hours a week. In practice, long and unpredictable hours are common. Broadcast journalists work in busy newsrooms and studios. They travel to cover stories and a driving licence is essential.
A broadcast journalist needs:
- excellent news-gathering and reporting skills
- a clear and professional broadcasting voice
- a persuasive manner and the ability to draw information from people
- a feel for what makes a story and how best to present it to particular audiences
- the ability to think creatively and see all potential angles of a story
- an interest in current affairs and people
What Can I Expect to Get Paid?
Salaries range from around £15,000 for trainees and new entrants, to over £100,000 for the most high-profile broadcast journalists.
Who Employs Presenters?
Journalists are employed by news agencies and production companies as well as the national and local TV and radio networks - terrestrial, digital, cable and satellite. Competition for jobs is fierce, and it is essential to get practical experience.
Do I Need to Do a Course?
Most broadcast journalists have a degree, which can be in any subject.
There are three main entry routes into broadcast journalism: some enter after completing a pre-entry degree or postgraduate broadcast journalism course, accredited by the Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC); others seek places on an employers' training scheme; some start out in newspapers.
New entrants develop their skills on the job. Trainees may shadow an experienced journalist, assisting in research or arranging interviews, before gradually taking on their own assignments. Employers may offer technical training in the use of recording and editing equipment.
Career progress is usually by moving to a bigger station or programme. Broadcast journalists may become special correspondents or presenters. Some become programme or series producers or editors, or move into management.
With thanks to Connexions-Direct
For more information, please visit the BBC College of Journalism website, tutorials from leading journalists, interactive modules and articles on every aspect of journalism.
