What are the job roles and responsibilities of an Journalists?

Journalists write and assemble news stories that will interest their audience. By gathering together a number of different sources and ensuring that all the arguments are represented, they keep their audience updated on events in their world.

The job typically involves:

• reading press releases

• researching articles

• establishing and maintaining contacts

• interviewing sources

• writing, editing and submitting copies

• attending events

• proofreading

• verifying statements and facts

• staying up to date with privacy and defamation law

• liaising with editors, sub-editors, designers, and photographers.

Typical employers of journalists

• Newspapers

• Magazines

• Newswires

• Press agencies

• Websites

• Radio stations

• Television companies

• Periodical publishers

Qualifications and training required

Although there are routes into journalism for both university graduates and school leavers, some organizations and newspapers now ask for a degree. While any subject is acceptable, English or journalism are preferred. 

Key skills for journalists

• Enthusiasm

• Stamina

• Determination

• Confidence

• Excellent oral or written skills

• Interpersonal skills