How would I go about writing as a profession?

Question

I have always had a passion for writing. I would love to break in to the journalism business but really don't know how to get started-if you could offer any advise that would be great! Thanks in advance~

Answer 1

My advice is to just keep writing.

There are many opportunities to write, such as letters to friends or family, programs for your social activities, opinions to your newspaper, or a diary. If you can, write every day.

You need critiques to grow as a writer, so either find someone whose opinion you respect to take a look at your writing, or try to take a writing class.

To break into journalism, make sure your basic writing skills are polished. If you have time, and you haven't already, read books about that. "The Elements of Style" is a classic.

If you want to work for a newspaper or television station, generally, you'll want a college degree. Sometimes, at a newspaper, folks can get their foot in the door by doing basic work -- things like running errands, making copies or the like. If you do that well, eventually, you'll break into bigger things, like obituary writing, then reporting.

But with a degree, you start off higher on the job ladder.

And don't just take my advice. Ask around. Yahoo Answers is a good start.

Good luck! :)

Answer 2

I agree with DubyaToo, in addition to suggestions, keep writing. There is a site, The Citizens Journal: http://www.thecitizensjournal.com , which allow  you to practice, get feedback, and build a small portfolio.

Answer 3

Get a hold of a local magazine or newspaper Editor and go about an informational interview. Maybe meet with them and share your interest, don't treat it as a way to beg them for a job because that will put them off. Simply speak to them about the profession of journalism, what it's like, how they got involved, what it requires etc. etc.

You could also go about an editorial internship with your local paper or magazine so that you can learn the ropes. Maybe even entry level.

That's what I did and it's worked out.

Answer 4

Contact your local weekly city papers and other small town or suburban paper.  Make sure to get in touch with the editor in charge.  Ask them about what content they are of interest to them.  

If you can get their interest you can start building your credentials.  

You can also freelance at ebay to write PR material under the services category.  Keep building your credentials with each article you write.  This will lead you to feature assignments eventually.

I write financial and technical manuals and some of them are sold via ebay.  So far I am making around 1300 net per month from just ebay business training materials.

Email me if you want to know more.

Answer 5

If you want to be a journalist you'd be best off getting a degree in journalism.  But these days you can get attention by blogging, if you take it seriously and treat your writing with journalistic integrity.