Life of a print journo!

Not everyone has the luxury to visit an office at any time, ask questions, make people talk and to represent them. Journalism is one profession that lets you do all these tasks. The life of a journalist is nothing short of an adventure. They meet people, ask questions, identify the angle for the story, filter what is required and come up with the news piece that we consume daily. 

Journalism is literature in a hurry. Apart from the content, the pace with which you deliver also matters to the organisation. A journalist needs to have an eye for detail. The events you attend, people you meet, things you see can possibly get your story. The point is to observe well. 

Striking the balance

This is a busy job and you don't know what could happen in the next day. You may have to say no to family functions, meetings with friends and other social activities in your early days. Once you are experienced, it is all about how you prioritise and find a balance. There can be good and bad days. Some days you will be appreciated for the story and things can go haywire the next day. Be prepared for it and the best attitude is to take everything by stride. 

When writing, you need to provide clarity to the reader and avoid unsure facts. Cross-checking the information with various sources is advisable. We need to listen to the different versions of the story and let the people know about it. People read us for perspectives. We should provide them with such insights. 

In the print industry, there are desk jobs and reporting jobs. The desk job involves editing the copies filed by the reporter. We don't have to go out to cover the story but sit in the office and polish it. Sub-editors do a thankless job in making the copy readable. People may not know them but what they do is what gives the story an identity. Do you often look at catchy headlines and wonder who writes it?

Issues, challenges 

Several organisations, especially print registered a dip in circulation and advertisement revenue due to COVID-19 pandemic. Reports of job losses, pay cuts inside the industry are real. Funding issues are common now. The organisations are looking at different ways to address this crisis. Many organisations are looking at a systematic web presence to reach out to more people.      

Remember

People will always follow your work and ask questions. They consider your words more authentic than the general public. You may get chances to interact with celebrities, big people, etc as part of your profession and it is important not to let the excitement affect the quality of the story. Do the necessary homework and meet them. 

Before joining the profession, talk to some experienced journalists. They provide you with more details and it is advisable not to join the profession just for fame. This is a demanding job and you need to be on your toes most of the time. Be ready to work for extra hours with fewer benefits. How you present yourself to your colleagues, seniors and people is important. Be a good listener and come up with appropriate questions. This profession will make your life more happening. You will start liking the profession if you don't consider your activities as 'work'. Enjoy what you do and it will reflect on your attitude. You are the voice of the people. Be a good one.