Can I get into television news?

[Tock389]

I'm currently working as a reporter for a regional daily newspaper. Like my job, but want to get into TV news.

Can I move straight across, or will I have to start  as a researcher etc? Don't mind learning from the bottom, but I really want to buy a house soon, so can't afford to take a salary drop.

[wisemother]

This is a very competitive area so you need to work out a system of stepping up which increases your experience as you go along.  Maybe look at working in radio to start with, starting with local radio.  As you already a reporter you should be meeting up with media reporters on the ground, network with them and let it be known you are looking for an opening.  Look at the satellite channels and be prepared to accept different types of work to get a foot in the door.  You don't mention if you have a qualification - an NCTJ one is probably a necessary requirement for you to progress within this area.