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Journalists research, write, edit, proofread and file news stories, features and articles for use on television and radio or within magazines, journals and newspapers, in print and online.

Journalists write and assemble together 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 abreast of events in their world.

The job typically involves:

• reading press releases

• researching articles

• establishing and maintaining contacts

• interviewing sources

• writing, editing, and submitting copy

• attending events

• proofreading

• verifying statements and facts

• staying up to date with privacy, contempt and defamation law

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

It is possible to transfer between television, radio, newspaper and publishing work.

Qualifications and training required

Although there are routes into journalism for both university graduates and school leavers, some organisations and newspapers now ask for a degree. While any subject is acceptable, English or journalism are preferred. Specialist subjects such as economics, languages or sciences can be a great advantage.

Key skills for journalists

• Enthusiasm

• Stamina

• Determination

• Confidence

• Perseverance

• Excellent oral or written skills

• Interpersonal skills

Typical employers of journalists

• Newspapers

• Magazines

• Newswires

• Websites

• Radio stations

• Television companies

• Periodical publishers

Many journalists work freelance. However, to do so you will need a network of industry contacts, the ability to propose strong pitches and a reputation for reliability.