Journalist
A journalist is a professional who researches and shares information of public interest in an objective and clear way. A journalist can work on different media platforms, such as newspapers, radio, television, or online media. Depending on their expertise, a journalist can cover many topics, from politics and culture to local stories.
Salary
The salary of a journalist can vary depending on experience and the employer.
Working hours
Variable, depending on the employer and context.
Remote work possibility
Partially, depending on the employer.
Types of employers
In Romania, a journalist can work in different formats:
Newspapers or magazines, national or local
Television channels, public or private
Radio stations
Online news platforms or independent publications
News agencies
Non-governmental organizations
Public institutions, in press offices or communication departments
Marketing or public relations agencies
Freelance journalist
Responsibilities
Research and document topics of public interest on different subjects
Find and research topics using primary and secondary sources
Write articles, reports, or video materials for the media outlet
Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including editors, photographers, producers, and technical staff
Maintain a network of relevant contacts, from public authorities to non-governmental organizations
Sources: (1) + (2) + (3) + (4) + (5) + (6)
Skills
Communication and interpersonal skills
Excellent verbal and written communication
The ability to deliver messages that are clear and adapted to the target audience
The ability to listen actively and ask relevant questions
The ability to build and maintain a relevant network
An empathetic and diplomatic attitude when interacting with potential interviewees
The ability to work in a diverse team
Analytical and research skills
The ability to analyze complex information and summarize them
Curiosity and the ability to identify potential subjects of interest
The capacity to maintain an objective attitude and analyze and write on the topics without prejudice
Creative thinking when presenting and organizing the information
Technical skills
The capacity to use multimedia tools
Basic IT knowledge and the ability to use editing and publishing tools
The ability to use social media in a way that is attractive to the general public
Organizational skills
The ability to work efficiently under pressure and in high stress conditions
The ability to adapt to a flexible schedule, including late hours or sudden events that need coverage
The ability to efficiently organize the available time and resources
Sources: (1) + (2) + (3) + (4) + (5) + (6) + (7)
Qualifications
A person who wants to become a journalist should:
Have a university degree (bachelor or master) in journalism or related fields. Examples include:
Journalism and Communication Studies
Sociology
Political Science
History
Languages or Philology
Law
Philosophy
Public Relations and Communication
These qualifications are an advantage, but it is possible to become a journalist without them. Skills can also be learned through non-university courses or self-study, but they must be demonstrated to potential employers.
Sources: (1) + (2) + (3) + (4)
What else you can do
Research and write articles for student publications, independent online platforms, or your own platforms (blogs, social media)
Participate in internships in newspapers, online media, radio, or television
Volunteer in student projects or non-governmental organizations requiring communication or media activities
Read the press to stay updated and analyze media critically
Attend workshops, conferences, or events to develop a network of contacts
Take courses or workshops to practice verbal and written communication skills
Sources: (2) + (3) + (4) + (7)
Did you discover an incomplete or incorrect information?
If yes, help us improve the platform.
Curious to discover other fields?
Browse through the entire list of fields and jobs, and discover the career that fits you the best.
-
News Analysts, Reporters, & Journalists, My Next Move (1)
Newspaper journalist, Prospects (2)
Magazine journalist, Prospects (3)
Broadcast journalist, Prospects (4)
Newspaper or magazine journalist, National Careers Service (5)
Broadcast journalist, National Careers Service (6)
Journalism, Oxford University Careers Service (7)