Career Change Advice

[Monkey77]

I am over 30, currently working but would like to become a journalist (ideally features and reviews but I realise not many publications take people on on this basis). I have a media related degree and a very dusty City & Guild in Journalism which was a pass. Can anybody advise me what the next step is?

[Whoever]

This is a very difficult profession to get into, especially at the moment where organisations are cutting back, especially provincial newspapers and magazines who are merging or reducing staff to cut costs. If you enjoy writing articles, etc. you could try writing a few brief topical ones and sending them around to local newspapers, or magazines & journals to see if you can get yourself into print. You will probably have to be very patient . Get yourself a copy of the Writers and Artists annual handbook. (probably available from WH Smith). It lists all the organisations who might accept such articles. If you can get yourself a reputation for good work, it's possible that when the economy improves somebody might be prepared to offer you some work, but it may well be on a freelance basis with won't pay the bills. Bear in mind that there are currently probably hundreds of Arts & Media degree graduates who have just finished their degrees and will be chasing similar opportunities, and probably a great many of last year's graduation as well, so it's a swell to be realistic in your aspirations. Joining a writers group might be another way of keeping your skills up to date if you feel they are rusty. . Look around in your Local Council's Adult Education prospectus for courses starting in September.

[MrsJ1]

You can usually find the Writer's and Artists' Yearbook in the local library.

Why not go along to local events, and submit reports to your local paper/county magazine? If yours are better than their own journalists, you could be on your way to a job!

[Monkey77]

Thanks guys, some great advice which I will definetely take.