Month 1: Settle In but Don’t Settle Down

Your first month in a journalist role is all about orientation, but let’s not kid ourselves; this isn’t summer camp. Expect to get your first assignments quickly, sometimes within days or even hours. Use this time wisely:

• Know Your Team: Take time to meet editors, senior reporters, and even the tech guys who can save you when your computer crashes.
• Learn the Tools: Familiarize yourself with the Content Management System (CMS), social media protocols, and any news-gathering software your outlet uses.
• Digest the Style Guide: Every publication has its idiosyncrasies in how they like their stories told. Learn them.
• File Your First Story: Don’t aim for a Pulitzer. Your first stories will likely be small pieces to test the waters. Focus on accuracy and clarity.

Month 2: Flex Those Reporting Muscles

Alright, you’ve dipped your toes; now let’s dive in. The second month is about upping the ante.

• Pitch Stories: By now, you should have a feel for what kind of stories resonate with your audience and editors. Start pitching.
• Expand Your Network: Continue to meet more people both inside and outside your newsroom. You never know who might give you your next big story.
• Experiment with Formats: If your newsroom allows it, try your hand at different types of stories: feature pieces, interviews, and maybe even some multimedia content.
• Feedback Loop: Make it a habit to seek feedback from your editors and even your peers. It’s the fastest way to grow.

Month 3: Find Your Groove

You’re no longer the ‘new kid’—well, at least not the newest. Month three is about refining your process and starting to specialize:

• Own Your Beat: Whether it’s politics, culture, or technology, start to focus more on the areas that interest you. Become the go-to person for that subject in your newsroom.
• File Faster: You should be comfortable enough to produce stories more quickly without sacrificing quality. Deadlines are the bread and butter of this industry.
• Explore Side Projects: Got an idea for a podcast or a video series? Pitch it. Newsrooms love initiative.
• Self-Review: Look back at your articles from the first and second months. Notice the improvements and understand where you need to focus more.

Quickfire Tips for Your First 90 Days:

• Stay Curious: Always be on the hunt for stories, even when you’re off the clock.
• Verify, Verify, Verify: Never sacrifice accuracy for speed. A retraction can set you back far more than a missed deadline.
• Respect Off-the-Record: If someone says it’s off the record, it stays off the record. Period.
• Listen More Than You Speak: The best stories often come when you let other people do the talking.
• Stay Humble: You’re going to make mistakes. Own them, learn from them, and move on.

Congratulations! You’ve made it through the initiation of your first three months in journalism. From here on out, the stories are more significant, the deadlines tighter, and the coffee probably just as terrible. But hey, you’re in it for the bylines, not the brews, right? Welcome to the tribe.

I think journalism gets measured by the quality of information it presents, not the drama or the pyrotechnics associated with us.

Bob Woodward

What Exactly Does a Reporter Do?

Reporters are the field agents of journalism, always on the prowl for news and crafting stories that serve the public good. Whether you’re working for a newspaper, a TV station, or an online outlet, you’ll be the magician turning mundane press releases into headline news, weaving together in-depth features, and sometimes even exposing scandals. “Journalists educate the public about events and issues and how they affect their lives… They spend a lot of time in the field, conducting interviews and investigating stories,” from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The landscape is incredibly dynamic. Imagine one moment you’re tucked into a city council meeting, notebook in hand, and the next you’re out interviewing a community hero. It’s like a box of chocolates; each day serves something different.

Required Skills for Reporting Jobs, Anyone?

The ideal reporter is adventurous, intensely curious, and armed with a healthy dose of skepticism—because, let’s face it, not everyone you meet will tell you the truth. Rock-solid research skills are given, and the savvy reporter knows how to tap into social media for leads and contacts. Adapting to different topics, tones, and sometimes even other mediums is a must. Oh, and let’s not forget, you have to write compellingly.

Flexibility and Resilience

In this line of work, flexibility isn’t just an excellent quality; it’s a requirement. You’ll often find yourself tweaking your approach to align with different subject matters or editorial guidelines. And let’s talk resilience. Deadlines are unforgiving and stressful, sources can be fickle, and yes, criticism is part of the job. That’s journalism for you.

Do Reporters Have Uniform Job Responsibilities?

Well, not exactly. The essence of reporting—staying atop current events, digging deep, and relaying information—remains the same across the board. However, the subject matter can vary wildly. One reporter might specialize in politics, while another dives into lifestyle and entertainment. The roles can even be more specific when working for large news agencies covering specialized beats like cybersecurity or the electric vehicle industry.

Who’s the Boss?

Hierarchies vary based on where you’re employed. You might find yourself reporting to an Editor, a News Director, or even directly to an audience if you’re freelancing.

Side Hustles and Sibling Jobs

Feature writers, columnists, and even some content creators are doing work similar to reporting, just framed differently. Dabbling in these areas can add flair to your stories or offer a fresh challenge.

The Evolving Landscape of Journalism

• Data-Driven Stories: The rise of big data is arming reporters with tools to craft more in-depth and factual stories.
• Multimedia Reporting: If you’re just writing, you’re behind the times. Video, podcasts, and interactive elements are the new norms.
• Ethics and Responsibility: In an era rife with fake news, ethical reporting is not just a catchphrase; it’s a solemn responsibility.
• Global Audience: The internet has blown the doors off traditional geographic boundaries, so understanding how to communicate to a diverse audience is key.

Breaking into Reporting Jobs

You might find that a journalism degree gives you a leg up, but it’s not strictly necessary. A solid portfolio showcasing your skill and passion for storytelling will get you through the door. Freelancing can offer a path to accumulating those crucial bylines.

So, are you ready to chase stories, dig deep, and make your mark in journalism? Your byline awaits.

Check out open reporting positions and other media jobs on Mediabistro’s job board.

Coming out of our post-pandemic haze, people have been searching for meaning…and a new job. Having experienced remote work and forced separation from office life, many employees are now awakening to the state of their workplaces. They’re seeing, for the first time, how toxic their environments might be, and some have felt sudden bursts of clarity about what they do—and don’t—want for their long-term careers.

But for others, that clarity soon dissipates, only to be replaced by doubt. The job market can be incredibly overwhelming. What if you get rejected? What if you change your mind? Do you have the right training or skills?

Why the fear of the unknown holds us back from career moves

Why are so many of us struggling to make career moves right now? Simply put, change is everywhere. We feel an acute need to evolve to be ready for the next stage of our lives, yet fear holds us back.

This problem goes back to an old evolutionary function of the brain. In order to survive, it was wise for early humans to stay still. Avoiding predators, predicting the weather, and locating food were all vital activities that rewarded constancy rather than change. Our brains are hard-wired to protect us, which meant avoiding the unknown long ago in our evolutionary past.

Uncertainty itself can be uncomfortable. One study showed that when presented with an action that might or might not produce an electric shock, participants felt greater levels of discomfort when there was a 50 percent chance of a jolt than when they faced a 100 percent chance. That’s why it is common to see people staying in less-than-inspiring situations. We will continue to endure and suffer silently in the known versus pursuing the unknown.

A friend of mine recently transitioned out of the workforce into entrepreneurship and suffered a significant phase of doubt. No matter how exciting the potential new life was, the old life was a known quantity; he knew it would allow him to continue paying his mortgage and taking care of his family. Moreover, our jobs become so tied to our identities. When we decide to move on to new opportunities, we’re really saying goodbye to part of ourselves.

How to evaluate whether you’re ready for a career move

What you need is a system you can use to help you assess whether you’re ready for a career change. Luckily, there are a few questions we recommend asking that should give you more insight into whether your excitement trumps your fear:

1. Is the grass greener?

Roleplay the career move you’re thinking about. The grass over there might not be as green as it seems in your fantasies as you sit at your old desk answering emails. Remember, that patch of grass will have emails, too. 

As you’re roleplaying, imagine the worst-case scenario as well. What could a bad day look like in this new career? If the answer horrifies you, it might be a sign that you should take some more time to consider your options.

2. Can you get the fulfillment you seek elsewhere?

You don’t necessarily need to make a career leap to find what you’re seeking. A greater sense of purpose? A creative atmosphere? A better social network? You might be able to scratch those itches by looking outside your career and making changes there instead. 

The cliche rings true sometimes: We do not have to live to work. We can work to live. If you’re feeling uninspired, that’s okay. You can pursue other activities to help, from reading a good book to going to therapy to taking a trip.

3. Do you understand your nonnegotiables?

To assess a future opportunity accurately, you need to understand what elements of work are must-haves. This includes recognizing the good things that your current job is giving you. 

When a new opportunity presents itself, it can sound terrific just because it’s new. Say the new job offers a spectacular perk, free gym membership, or loads of travel; make sure those shiny new offerings are actually checking important boxes for you.

4. Does a career change suit your long game?

A good friend of mine enjoyed a long career in the Navy, cooking for lieutenants and traveling the world. After 20 years, he’d had enough and transitioned from cooking to supply chain management. Even though that move seemed strange to other people, how he made the transition made perfect sense. 

The soft skills and coolness under pressure he had learned in the Navy immediately got him noticed by organizations. He invested time driving to networking events and commuting to different cities, making his name known in this new field. The move worked for him because he could tap into all the skills he had learned in his career so far.

5. What’s your value?

Many of us undervalue ourselves and go into the job-seeking process with far more timidity than we need to based on our accomplishments and skills. We can devalue our résumés because we’re stay-at-home parents or because of that gap when we were sick. 

Now’s the time to remember how valuable you are. Surround yourself with people who can remind you how great you are in your interview preparation.

If you have a trusted process for evaluating potential career moves and can use it to ask questions about your inner intentions and expectations, then you don’t need to be ruled by fear. You can let go and leap into the next challenge, despite your evolutionary self begging you to stay put.

The media sector is a multi-faceted arena teeming with many career opportunities. It’s a realm where creative ingenuity meets technical prowess, resulting in the production of impactful content. Whether you’re an artist at heart, a techie with an eye for detail, or a wordsmith looking to capture the zeitgeist, the media universe is vast enough to accommodate a range of talents and ambitions. This field doesn’t just offer jobs; it provides vocations, quests, and causes. 

Whether your goal is to disseminate crucial news, entertain millions, influence public opinion, or perhaps even disrupt traditional media paradigms, there’s likely a career in media that aligns perfectly with your skill set and aspirations.

We had some fun with this article and renamed many media professions with some slightly silly job titles – they are meant to help distill what the position does and help you grasp the deeper meaning behind the job!

What’s the Buzz in the Media Sector?

The media landscape is in constant flux, evolving and adapting rapidly in today’s ever-changing world and heading off accusations of being polarizing. Long-standing pillars like journalism and advertising intersect with emerging channels like social media, content platforms, and direct-to-consumer streaming services. New technology—such as virtual reality, blockchain, and artificial intelligence—is reshaping how we create, distribute, and consume content. This includes anything from interactive journalism pieces that place the reader in the heart of the story to algorithm-driven marketing campaigns designed to reach a hyper-targeted audience.

Yet, amidst all these changes, the core mission of the media remains steadfast: to create resonant content that informs, entertains, or persuades. This could mean producing investigative journalism pieces that provoke thought, advertising campaigns that drive consumer action, or multimedia stories that capture hearts and minds.

These expansions are driven by an unwavering essence at the core of all media endeavors—the endeavor to create content that strikes a chord with its intended audience. While the mediums may change, this central principle of media careers endures, offering a stable foundation upon which anyone entering the field can build their career.

This blend of old and new, timeless principles, and cutting-edge technologies makes the media sector one of the most dynamic and exciting fields. Whether you are a seasoned veteran contemplating your next career move or a newcomer eager to make your mark, understanding the various roles and opportunities available can be the first step in your next fulfilling career adventure.

Learn more about the aspects of media jobs to see which resonates with your natural interests and abilities!

Your Career Map: 12 Key Media Roles and What They Entail

1. Reputation Engineer (Publicist)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Publicists act as gatekeepers between their clients and the public, shaping perception through strategic communications.
• Crisis management is a critical skill. When unfavorable situations arise, quick and effective messaging can mitigate damage.
• Publicists often juggle multiple clients, necessitating exceptional organizational and multitasking skills.

A Reputation Engineer, commonly known as a Publicist, is no longer just a behind-the-scenes operator sending press releases and arranging interviews. In today’s interconnected and rapidly changing media environment, they are strategic architects of a client’s public persona. Their expertise extends to shaping narratives, crisis management, and content creation. They often work closely with a multi-disciplinary team that includes social media managers, legal advisors, and marketing professionals to execute a cohesive brand strategy.

While traditional media relations remain a cornerstone, a modern publicist is proficient in digital platforms, utilizing SEO practices to optimize press coverage and employing social media channels to engage with the audience directly. They are often tasked with real-time analytics monitoring to gauge public sentiment and media impact, allowing dynamic strategy shifts. A Reputation Engineer serves as a guardian and strategist of a client’s public image, whether that client is an individual, a corporation, or even a nonprofit organization. With the convergence of various forms of media and an increasingly skeptical public, the role demands a unique blend of creativity, analytical thinking, and an intimate understanding of the ever-shifting media landscape.

2. Image Curator (Photographer)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Photographers don’t just click pictures; they tell stories through visuals.
• Specializations abound, from photojournalism and event photography to commercial and fashion photography.
• Mastery of editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom is often necessary for post-production modifications.

The role of an Image Curator, commonly known as a Photographer, goes beyond merely clicking a shutter button. Today’s photographers are visual storytellers and brand builders responsible for translating a concept or narrative into compelling imagery. Their work starts long before the photoshoot, during the conceptualization and planning stages. They scout locations, assess lighting conditions, and collaborate closely with art directors, designers, and even marketing teams to ensure that the visuals will serve the broader goals of a project or campaign. In the age of digital media, photographers also need a firm grasp of post-production software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, using these tools to enhance images or even create composite visuals that might be impractical to capture in a single shot.

Moreover, photographers are increasingly taking on roles traditionally in the domain of other professionals, such as video production and drone operation, making versatility a valued trait. Beyond the technical skills, an adept photographer possesses a keen eye for detail, artistic sensibility, and the interpersonal skills necessary to put subjects at ease. In a world increasingly driven by visual content, the Image Curator is pivotal in shaping public brand identity and influencing social change.

3. Broadcast Beacon (Television Anchor)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• As the face of a news channel, anchors are responsible for accurately and articulately delivering news to the public.
• Constant engagement with current affairs is crucial. Anchors often prepare their own scripts, sometimes under tight deadlines.
• The role also involves behind-the-scenes coordination with newsroom staff, ensuring factual consistency and smooth flow during live broadcasts.

In the ever-evolving media landscape, the role of a television news anchor has expanded far beyond the traditional duties of presenting news and reading from a teleprompter. Anchors today are multi-skilled professionals expected to bring journalistic integrity, a strong screen presence, and a depth of knowledge. They are often involved in the pre-production phase, which includes participating in editorial meetings to shape the day’s news agenda and suggest stories that reflect current events or community concerns.

Modern anchors also leverage social media platforms’ power to engage directly with viewers, offering additional commentary, behind-the-scenes looks, or addressing questions and concerns in real time. The role may extend to field reporting, special series segments, and in-depth interviews, requiring a broad skill set ranging from live reporting insight to research and investigative skills. In a sense, anchors are becoming brand ambassadors for their respective news stations, as their credibility and relatability often influence viewer trust and viewership numbers. With various formats like live-streaming and 24-hour news channels, the demand for anchors adeptly navigating these multiple roles is higher than ever.

4. Visual Narrator (Video Editor)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Beyond just cutting and splicing, video editors play a pivotal role in storytelling through visual sequences.
• They must be adept in handling various software, including Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro.
• Collaboration with sound designers, colorists, and other specialists is often necessary to create a finished product.

A Visual Narrator, also known as a Video Editor, is not just a technician who cuts and splices footage, but a storyteller who shapes a video’s emotional and intellectual impact. The video editor role has evolved to be multifaceted, encompassing not only traditional editing but also elements of sound design, color grading, and visual effects. The editor often collaborates directly with directors, producers, and composers to ensure the final product is cohesive and resonant. With the advent of technologies like 4K, 8K, and virtual reality, the complexity and required expertise in video editing have increased dramatically. Mastery of software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer is a given, but many editors are also proficient in compositing software like Adobe After Effects and audio software like Adobe Audition.

Additionally, in today’s fast-paced content cycle, editors often work on tight deadlines. They may be called upon to make last-minute changes to accommodate new information or feedback, requiring not just skill but also adaptability and grace under pressure. As platforms for video content proliferate, from social media snippets to feature-length films, the Visual Narrator plays a crucial role in ensuring that stories are told in the most engaging and impactful way possible.

5. Outreach Optimizer (Media Planner)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Media Planners need a thorough understanding of both the client’s industry and the media landscape.
• Advanced analytical tools are frequently used to gauge the effectiveness of media campaigns.
• They are crucial in steering the client’s budget toward the most impactful media channels.

The Outreach Optimizer, known in traditional terms as a Media Planner, has evolved into a role far beyond selecting the right media outlets for advertisement placement. In an age where the consumer is bombarded by content across multiple platforms, this professional acts as a crucial linchpin in creating a holistic customer journey. Armed with data analytics and an understanding of consumer behavior, they strategize not only the ‘where’ but also the ‘when’ and ‘how’ of message delivery. Whether it’s coordinating multi-channel campaigns that span social media, print, and out-of-home advertising or segmenting audiences for targeted messaging, the Outreach Optimizer works at the intersection of creativity and analytics.

They collaborate closely with brand strategists, creatives, and data scientists to construct a coherent and effective media plan. Tools like programmatic buying, retargeting strategies, and real-time bidding are part of their modern toolkit. With consumer attention becoming increasingly scarce, the role demands an acute understanding of metrics, from click-through rates to engagement scores, to ensure ROI-positive outcomes. As augmented reality and voice search trends emerge, the Outreach Optimizer is consistently on the front lines, navigating the ever-changing landscape to capture audience attention effectively.

6. Visual Architect (Graphic Designer)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Graphic designers often work in tandem with marketing teams to create visual assets that align with campaign goals.
• Versatility is key, with the medium ranging from digital ads and website layouts to print brochures and merchandise.
• Proficiency in design tools like Adobe Illustrator and InDesign is typically required.

The Visual Architect, traditionally known as a Graphic Designer, has transcended the realms of merely being a creator of logos or posters. In today’s interconnected world, their work is the visual cornerstone of a brand’s identity, existing across multiple platforms and media types, from mobile apps to billboards. The graphic design role is about solving problems through visual storytelling, employing a blend of artistic ability and strategic thinking. They must be masters of multiple tools and languages such as Adobe Creative Suite, CSS, and HTML. Their work doesn’t end at aesthetic appeal; it extends to user experience and interface design, requiring a deep understanding of human psychology to create intuitive and engaging layouts. They often work in tandem with content creators, web developers, and marketing teams to bring a cohesive visual narrative to a brand’s messaging.

The Visual Architect also plays a significant role in content marketing, creating infographics, social media assets, and video graphics that enhance consumer engagement and comprehension. As new technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality enter mainstream use, these professionals are charged with the task of integrating these elements into a broader visual strategy. They must keep pace with rapidly evolving design trends, software capabilities, and consumer preferences, making continuous learning and adaptation their constant companions.

7. Digital Evangelist (Digital Marketer)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Beyond SEO and social media management, Digital Marketers often delve into PPC advertising, email marketing, and even AI-driven customer segmentation.
• Continuous learning is crucial due to ever-changing algorithms and audience preferences.
• Digital Marketers often employ A/B testing methods to continuously refine their strategies.

The Digital Evangelist, commonly referred to as a Digital Marketer, is the vanguard of a brand’s online presence, leveraging many tools and platforms to connect with potential customers in the digital realm. Gone are the days when this role solely involved setting up a few PPC campaigns or sending out an email newsletter. Today’s Digital Evangelist must be a jack-of-all-trades, fluent in SEO, content marketing, social media management, and even data analytics. They utilize deep insights gained from metrics and KPIs to tailor strategies beyond driving traffic, focusing on conversion optimization and customer retention. This role often requires a symbiotic relationship with other departments like sales, customer service, and IT to create a seamless online experience that reflects the brand’s values and meets business objectives.

With trends like AI-driven marketing automation, chatbots, and personalized user experiences shaping the digital landscape, the Digital Evangelist is tasked with staying ahead of the curve, constantly updating their skill set and toolkit. A keen understanding of consumer behavior online, such as the customer’s path to purchase, is critical. They must be adept at A/B testing, funnel optimization, and must have the foresight to adapt strategies in real-time to meet the ever-changing demands and trends of the digital space.

8. Community Maestro (Social Media Manager)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• It’s not just about posting updates. Social Media Managers often employ advanced analytics to understand engagement patterns.
• They are responsible for reputation management on social platforms, which can include handling customer complaints or queries.
• Content calendars are often used to maintain a consistent posting schedule.

The role of the Community Maestro, also known as a Social Media Manager, has evolved into a multifaceted position that extends beyond mere post-scheduling or follower counts. In today’s digital landscape, this individual is essentially the brand’s voice, responsible for crafting its personality and maintaining its reputation across social platforms. This role demands a deep understanding of analytics to drive strategic decisions, going beyond vanity metrics to focus on actionable insights like engagement rates, customer sentiment, and click-through ratios. Real-time communication with followers is essential, as is crisis management; a single misstep can turn into a PR fiasco in today’s fast-paced social media environment.

The Community Maestro often collaborates closely with other departments—particularly customer service, PR, and marketing—to ensure brand consistency and to capitalize on cross-promotional opportunities. They are also usually involved in the ideation and execution of social media campaigns, whether for product launches or social causes, leveraging each platform’s unique features and audience behaviors for maximum impact. Content curation plays a big role, often involving a mix of video, text, and interactive elements to keep the community engaged. With emerging technologies like live streaming, chatbots, and augmented reality filters becoming increasingly integral to social media, the Community Maestro must be agile and proactive, constantly staying ahead of trends to keep the brand relevant and engaging.

9. Content Orchestrator (Content Strategist)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Content Strategists do more than just align blog posts with business goals; they are often at the helm of a brand’s entire content ecosystem.
• Skills in SEO, user experience (UX), and even basic coding can give content strategists a significant edge.
• They often conduct extensive audience research to ensure that content reaches the most relevant demographics.

The role of a Content Orchestrator, better known as a Content Strategist, goes beyond just creating compelling content; it’s about weaving a cohesive narrative across multiple platforms and formats. Operating at the intersection of creativity, analytics, and technology, this role necessitates a multi-faceted skill set. Content strategists are responsible for understanding their audience’s behavior, needs, and pain points, usually through data analysis and customer research. Based on this understanding, they curate a content calendar, dictating what gets published when and where. But the job doesn’t end there. The Content Orchestrator also collaborates closely with various departments like marketing, sales, and customer service to align the company’s messaging and ensure that the content achieves its desired impact, be it increased engagement, lead generation, or customer retention.

Moreover, they are often responsible for measuring the ROI of their content strategies using metrics such as engagement rates, conversion rates, and customer lifetime value. The rise of AI and machine learning tools has equipped Content Strategists with predictive analytics, allowing them to anticipate market trends and consumer needs, thereby always staying one step ahead. Furthermore, they play an instrumental role in crisis management, brand positioning, and even mergers and acquisitions, as the content they produce or oversee serves as the public voice of the organization. This role has also grown to include a focus on ethical considerations like inclusivity and sustainability, as modern consumers demand brands to be socially responsible. All in all, the Content Orchestrator is much more than a planner; they are the puppeteers of a brand’s digital persona, pulling all the right strings to create a symphonic user experience.

10. Story Explorer (Journalist)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Journalists serve as the pillars of democratic societies, often risking personal safety for the truth.
• Different beats like politics, technology, and healthcare require varying levels of expertise and knowledge.
• Digital journalism has introduced new skills, like multimedia reporting and data visualization.

The Story Explorer, commonly known as a Journalist, serves as a conduit for information, acting as both investigator and storyteller. This role has dramatically evolved with the proliferation of digital media; journalists no longer solely write for print or broadcast but often create multimedia content that includes video, audio, and interactive elements. A journalist’s responsibilities stretch from local to global issues, requiring a versatility that can adapt to different topics and audiences quickly. The Story Explorer is expected to have a keen nose for news and an insatiable curiosity. Research skills are paramount, as is the ability to quickly synthesize complex information into easily digestible, yet comprehensive reports. In today’s world of ‘fake news’ and misinformation, a commitment to ethics and integrity is more critical than ever, making fact-checking and source verification crucial aspects of the job.

Moreover, they often work under tight deadlines, requiring exceptional time management skills. Social media has also become an indispensable tool for modern journalists, both as a source of information and as a platform for disseminating stories. Audience engagement is now a significant aspect of the role, requiring journalists to monitor and interact with their readership, understand analytics, and sometimes even serve as their own social media managers to build a personal brand that complements their primary work. With the rise of citizen journalism and user-generated content, professional journalists are increasingly tasked with curating and contextualizing information, serving as a filter to bring the most accurate and relevant stories to the public eye.

11. Narrative Captain (Film Director)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Film Directors are the creative spearheads of any film project, but their role also involves significant managerial tasks.
• They liaise with producers on budget concerns, coordinate with casting directors, and provide feedback during the editing process.
• A deep understanding of storytelling techniques, camera work, and even acting methods often sets apart great directors.

The Narrative Captain, or Film Director, is the fulcrum of any cinematic endeavor, orchestrating the elements that transform a script into a living, breathing story. This role is as much about leadership as it is about artistic vision, requiring the ability to manage a large and diverse crew while maintaining the integrity of the film’s core message. In the pre-production stage, the director is intimately involved in script development, casting, location scouting, and budget planning, ensuring that the foundational aspects of the film align with their creative vision. Once shooting begins, they guide the cast and crew through the meticulous details of each scene, from the nuance of an actor’s expression to the intricacy of a camera angle.

They make pivotal decisions in real-time, always balancing the need for artistic expression against time and budget constraints. In post-production, their role shifts to collaboration with editors, sound designers, and visual effects artists to refine the film into its final form. The director is often the spokesperson for the project, responsible for presenting it to investors, stakeholders, and eventually, the audience. With the advent of digital platforms and the increasing importance of global markets, the role has expanded to encompass a strong understanding of technology and cultural nuances. They must adapt their techniques for different formats, such as streaming services or interactive experiences, and consider how storytelling elements will resonate with international audiences. As a custodian of both artistic and emotional impact, the Narrative Captain bears the weight of the film’s success or failure, making it a role for those with both artistic aspirations and a robust sense of responsibility.

12. Aesthetic Director (Art Director)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

• Art Directors are not just about aesthetics; their choices can significantly influence a brand’s perception and bottom line.
• They often have a hand in selecting other key creative team members, influencing the entire creative process.
• Budget management and timeline adherence are often as crucial as creative vision.

The Aesthetic Director, or Art Director, serves as the keystone of the visual experience in any media or advertising campaign, setting the artistic tone and visual narrative. This is a role of leadership and vision, where one oversees a team of designers, illustrators, and other creative professionals to achieve a unified look and feel across all project components. Their duties extend from the conceptual phase, where they are integral in shaping the foundational ideas, to execution, where their keen eye for detail ensures every element meets the project’s high-quality standards. They are often the liaison between the creative team and the client or upper management, translating business objectives into innovative strategies.

With the rise of digital media, Art Directors increasingly engage with interactive design elements, ensuring a cohesive visual experience across both physical and digital platforms. They make data-driven decisions, employing A/B testing, heatmaps, and user feedback to refine designs. They also ensure brand consistency across various projects and often have a significant say in hiring decisions within the creative team. Ethics and sustainability have become growing considerations in this role, as consumers increasingly demand brand transparency and social responsibility. As a result, modern Art Directors need to be well-versed not just in creating appealing designs, but also in understanding broader cultural and social implications of their work. From print and broadcast to online and mobile interfaces, the Aesthetic Director crafts the visual language that helps in selling a product or idea and building lasting emotional connections with the audience.

Mapping Your Journey in Media Careers

In the sprawling universe of media careers, each position is a singular star and a part of constellations—interconnected yet highly specialized. The industry offers an intriguing blend of creative and technical roles, each replete with unique challenges, opportunities, and rewards.

Whether you’re just embarking on a career in the media sector or pondering a strategic pivot, understanding the multifaceted nature of these media careers will guide your decision-making and empower you to carve out your own distinct pathway. Remember, your aptitude for adaptation could become your most vital asset in an industry defined by constant evolution and driven by technology.

So, as you explore these diverse media careers, equip yourself with the insights, skills, and courage to make your next professional leap. Your perfect role is out there, waiting for you to seize it!

By the minute, things like technological advances and artificial intelligence are changing people’s day to days—and, along with that, the working world. While some people are fearful that this could disrupt their industry, there’s a lot of data that points to quite the opposite: creative careers have a strong future ahead. 

And you don’t have to already be working a creative career to seek out a new one. Trends of people picking up freelancing and contracting have only picked up in the past several years, and The Great Resignation has forced them to think hard about their next career move. In fact, 46% of workers plan to change jobs in the new year.

Not only that, but data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that creative jobs are expected to grow 10% through 2026—much faster than average in comparison to other fields. While creative jobs grow, they also evolve with the ever-changing technology landscapes.

Check out these four evolving creative careers to consider.  

1. Social Media Manager

In the ever-growing and evolving world of social media, the role of a Social Media Manager can change by the day. However, in a general sense, they oversee the developing and implementing strategies for a company’s social media⁠—whether it’s Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, YouTube, or all the above. Social Media Managers are the creative engines behind a company’s varying social outlets, staying on top of social media trends as well as curating content daily for that brand. They also monitor audience comments and maintain relationships with other companies on social media.

Some colleges are even launching social media majors.

2. Copywriter

Copywriters are responsible for creating effective and engaging text that is used to promote the products of the company they work for, whether it’s an ad agency or a corporation. Their writing is typically displayed externally on:

• ads
• websites
• catalogs
• videos
• social media

They craft messaging that grabs their reader’s attention. Most of their writing needs to be clear, as it’s used briefly and compellingly. A Copywriter is also usually part of the company’s marketing team, working closely with other team members in the process of brainstorming and executing ideas.

3. Graphic Designer

In a broad sense, a Graphic Designer is responsible for creating visuals for a company.

This can include designing:

• website layout
• ads
• brochures
• magazines
• corporate logos
• reports

The goal of a Graphic Designer is generally to captivate an audience with aesthetically-pleasing visuals that are in line with the company’s brand. Their job is to visually communicate with both the employees of the company along with clients or potential clients. They can be found across industries and can work on a variety of products depending on the company. Some Graphic Designers may specialize in particular fields such as illustration, digital design, branding, or advertising.

4. Creative Director

A Creative Director determines the creative vision of a brand or project and manifests that vision through digital, print and film installations. The job is to maintain a cohesive look and feel of a project—be it an advertising campaign, fashion line, video game or magazine—by ensuring the visuals, messaging and/or interactive and motion designs are on point. A Creative Director also establishes budgets and timelines and manages client relationships.

Have you recently been thinking about a new, more creative role? If so, we’ve rounded up a list of top trending creative jobs, including their average salaries, top paying states and industries, as well as the industries with the highest employment levels for the roles.

1. Art Director

An art director is one of the more popular creative jobs. A person in this role sets the creative direction of a project, using visuals and other artistic elements to bring concepts to life for companies.  

Average salary: $115,430

Top paying states: California, New York, New Jersey, Illinois, and Oregon

Toping paying industries: Health & personal care stores, motion picture and video industries, cable and subscription programming, spectator sports, and software publishers

2. Technical Writer

A technical writer is in charge of writing a company’s documents—spanning a wide range of documents such as user manuals, procedure guides, journal articles, and more.

Average salary: $81,470

Top paying states: Delaware, California, Massachusetts, Hawaii, and the District of Columbia

Toping paying industries: Electric power generation, chemical manufacturing, commodity contracts, scientific research, and computer equipment manufacturing

3. Content Strategist

A content strategist plans, writes, and edits content while also ensuring it is clear, compelling, and properly distributed across web, mobile, and social platforms.

Average salary: $93,672

Top paying states: California, New Jersey, Washington, Connecticut, New Hampshire

Toping paying industries: Technology, start-up, finance, hospitality, and media

4. UX Designer

A UX designer creates the full experience that users have on a website, app, or device.

Average salary: $95,460

Top paying states: Washington, California, New York, Iowa, and New Jersey

Toping paying industries: Software publishers, computer equipment, commodity contracts, personal care services, and credit intermediation

5. Graphic Designer

A graphic designer is responsible for creating a company’s visuals.

Average salary: $59,970

Top paying states: District of Columbia, Washington, New York, Massachusetts, and California

Toping paying industries: Monetary authorities-central bank, software publishers, natural gas distribution, federal executive branch, and commodity contracts

6. Marketing Manager

A marketing manager is responsible for developing and executing strategies to promote brands, products, and services.

Average salary: $153,440

Top paying states: New York, New Jersey, California, Delaware, and Virginia

Toping paying industries: Oil and gas extraction, pipeline transportation, cable and subscription programming, scientific research, other information services

7. Writer

A writer develops written content for media outlets, websites, publishers, academia, and more.

Average salary: $81,120

Top paying states: California, New York, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, and Connecticut

Toping paying industries: Motion picture, commodity contracts, nondepository credit intermediation, cable, and federal executive branch

8. Video Editor

A video editor uses footage, sound, and graphics to tell a story.

Average salary: $76,000       

Top paying states: California, New York, Texas, Florida, and Illinois

Toping paying industries: Architectural & engineering, employment services, motion picture, specialized design services, and accounting

9. Producer

A producer is a person who oversees a creative project from beginning to end.  

Average salary: $101,950

Top paying states: California, New York, Connecticut, New Mexico, and New Jersey

Toping paying industries: Agents & managers for artists, independent writers, computer systems design, accounting, and employment services

10. Photographer

A photographer can be hired to take photographs of a wide variety of things, including personal, commercial, educational, and technical purposes.

Average salary: $48,210

Top paying states: District of Columbia, Connecticut, New York, Georgia, and Washington

Toping paying industries: Grantmaking and giving services, aerospace product and parts manufacturing, other information services, scientific research and development services, and general medical

(Statistics for these creative jobs are provided by the BLS)

We’ve all heard the saying, “Do what you love, love what you do.” It’s supposed to be the secret to working without it feeling like work. Many people would advise you to turn your favorite hobby into a business to live out this saying. But before you go full force into monetizing your passions and hobbies, consider these seven things.

1. The logistics of running a business

The first consideration you want to make when monetizing a hobby is if you’re ready to take on the logistics of running a business. If you want to make real money with your passion, you must treat it as a business.

Study the logistics of actually running a business. You’ll need to understand things like business finances, marketing, sales, and customer service. You’ll also need to comprehend business cybersecurity. Understanding things like botnet attacks and how they can impact your business devices is essential to ensuring your customers can safely interact with you online. 

If you aren’t ready to run a business, you won’t be able to gain momentum monetizing your hobbies. You may have started by freelancing, but this is a big step that transitions freelancing to full-time work. Do your research and prepare to run a business as best you can before jumping in.

2. How much money you want to make

How much money do you want to make when turning your passion into a business? Knowing how you want to fare financially will help carve out a direction for your monetization efforts. 

Assess where you are first. If you’re doing well financially, you may not need to make a lot of money immediately with your hobby. You may even be able to invest more upfront when starting up your hobby-turned-business. On the other hand, if you’re struggling, you may need to fast-track your monetization process to get stable.

Once you understand where you are financially and where you want to be, you can create an actionable plan to move forward with making a living with your hobby or just bringing in some extra cash on the side. 

3. If it interferes with your enjoyment of the hobby

It’s imperative to consider whether monetizing your hobby will interfere with how much you enjoy it. It’s easy to say your enjoyment won’t waver if your heart is set on making money with your passion. However, you should work through a formal decision-making process with this one. 

First, identify the question you want to answer. In this case, the question is whether or not turning your hobby into a business will interfere with how much you enjoy it now and in the future. Next, gather relevant information that will help you answer this question insightfully. Then, list potential answers to your question. 

Finally, carefully consider each possible solution before choosing the one that feels right. It’s okay to decide not to move forward with monetizing your hobby if you feel you’re going to hate it after turning it into a business. After all, hobbies are supposed to decrease your stress rather than add to it.

4. Holistic health implications

Running a business generally can be draining, especially when you’re at the beginning stages. Long hours, wearing many hats, and lots of sacrifices are typical. But if you want to be successful, you have to find balance. And that requires you to tend to your holistic health throughout the journey. 

Consider how turning your hobby into a business will affect your mental, physical, and emotional health. How will you care for your holistic health when so much of your time and effort is dedicated to taking your passion to the next level?

Monetizing your hobby is much more manageable when your holistic health is in a good place. Make sure that you carve out time to destress — even if that means picking up some more relaxing hobbies to unwind in your downtime.

5. How your loved ones could be affected

Your loved ones will typically be affected by your decision to monetize your hobby. If you don’t consider how the journey will affect their lives, you may negatively impact the relationship.

Open conversations with loved ones about your plans to monetize a passion are crucial. Give them space to express their concerns. But fight for your dreams and show them how this could be an excellent thing for your family’s future. 

If you can’t turn your hobby into a business without it being detrimental to your family, it’s probably a good idea to hold off on your plans. Consider fully how it could affect them in financial and emotional ways. Financial security may not be worth it if you are sacrificing quality time with them.

6. Your vision

Consider whether turning your hobby into a business gets you closer to your vision. Assessing if monetizing your hobby will be a part of your life long-term is essential. Consider how making this change may add or detract from the life you have in mind for yourself. 

Map out your life’s trajectory. Think about your family, career, and social life in five, 10, 15, and 20 years. Visualize what would make your life purposeful, passionate, and meaningful. Then, explore how monetizing your hobby fits your life goals and pushes you closer to your dream life and career. If monetizing your passions and hobbies helps you achieve these goals, it may be a good move. 

7. Whether or not you can commit

You must gauge your commitment level when monetizing your hobbies. Be honest about how devoted you are to take your hobby to the next level. You won’t get the results you want if you aren’t truly dedicated to it. Ask yourself if you are genuinely determined to monetize your hobby. Can you stay committed to the process when things get tough? Are you all-in regarding growing an actual business?

If you can commit to growing a business, develop discipline, and become self-motivated, you can make headway in monetizing your passions. Make sure the market isn’t too saturated, and your idea is unique in some way. In order for your hobby to be monetized, it must be marketable and sustainable. 

Turning a favorite hobby into a business is how many successful entrepreneurs get started. You can be the next person to flourish as a business owner if you thoughtfully go into it with careful planning. Considering these caveats when monetizing your passions and hobbies will help you go into the journey with insight and intention.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) spaces are growing, and their need for specialized teams is too. Such specialized teams are ideally adept at not just creating the most fantastic experiences in these digital realms, but also making them accessible to all. Here are four facts about emerging jobs in digital creative fields as well as three jobs that are needed for a more accessible future.

Content is difficult to access 

As much as we wish content in the digital space was easily accessible no matter where or who accesses it, that isn’t the case. Instead, content is difficult to access on the web, especially if you live with a disability. 

When things like keyboard navigation, captions, alt text, and audio aren’t available, content becomes inaccessible to a massive pool of people. 

The experience isn’t the same for everyone 

People also raise awareness about how the digital experience differs between those who are and aren’t living with a situational, temporary, or permanent disability. The whole point of accessibility is to ensure things are accessible and enjoyable for all people. 

Many brands and businesses make their respective digital experiences accessible to most people. But unfortunately, they’re hardly the exciting experience that those living without a disability get.  

AR and VR Tech isn’t affordable for everyone 

AR and VR require tech accessories. You can access AR with a smartphone, while VR requires a headset device to engage. In addition, you might need other accessories like apps and games, a treadmill, hand controllers, a game system, or a joystick to enhance either experience. 

Unfortunately, these accessories can be expensive. For example, the best VR headsets can cost you upwards of $500 apiece. If these accessories don’t become more affordable, AR and VR experiences won’t ever be accessible to everyone. 

Internet access is still an issue 

And what about the internet? AR and VR experiences need some sort of internet connection to work correctly. 

Many households struggle to afford internet service, and various others don’t have it at all. So, there’s a continuing conversation about making the internet more affordable to become that much more accessible. 

So, who will we need for a better, more accessible future in the digital space? 

As we work to solve some of the digital world’s accessibility challenges, we’ll need teams with specific digitally-focused specializations to do it. At the very least, our future is in the hands of individuals who specialize in visualizations and implementation of accessibility in the AR and VR space. 

You can pursue many creative careers to help make our future in the digital space more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of experience, background, or ability. We’ll start you off with three emerging niches rooted in creativity. 

3D Artists

The next generation of creators should be well-versed in 3-dimensional art. A 3D artist creates 3D models of products, environments, and other creations in creative projects, virtual worlds, games, AR experiences, and other digital spaces. 

For example, let’s say you’re interested in the metaverse. Specifically, the real estate economy within the metaverse platform is booming. As the demand for metaverse real estate agents grows, so does the need for 3D artists. 

This is because 3D artists are the go-to source for guidance on making real estate more appealing to buyers in the metaverse. You can help model the things folks are attracted to in real life, like great landscaping and lighting in metaverse real estate. 

If you want to build a memorable brand in the metaverse, or one that uses VR and AR effectively, 3D artists can help craft the necessary unique experience. 

NFT Designers

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are exploding in popularity. NFTs are essentially digital collector’s items. They’re used in the metaverse and other virtual worlds. They also can’t be replicated because they’re etched into the blockchain. 

A digital piece of art, an in-game item, 3D fashion, GIFs, and metaverse real estate are great examples of NFTs. All of which come alive at the hands of an NFT designer. You can create digital artworks for brands and mint and sell them as NFTs once they’re finished. You can also help navigate emerging NFT platforms to find the best home for your creations. 

Web Accessibility Specialists

Whether it’s the metaverse, AR, VR, or another digital experience, it should be accessible to everyone. Regardless of ability or background, an individual should be able to access any digital space and be captivated by it. 

A web accessibility specialist can test digital experiences for accessibility inefficiencies and improve them to meet accessibility standards. So, if you want to focus more on the technical aspects of inclusion and accessibility, this could be an excellent role for you. 

There are many topics surrounding accessibility in the digital world to discuss. Affordable tech accessories and internet, content accessibility, and vying for the same exceptional experience for everyone are just a few. 
Pursuing your dream job in one of the emerging niches mentioned above can help form a more inclusive, accessible, and enjoyable digital world for all.

Once remote work gained popularity due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies with office spaces decided to re-think their plan to work together in person. While a portion of businesses require essential workers, a large majority of companies can operate on a remote or hybrid level, which also means they’re now more inclusive.

And with The Great Resignation, most employees are in favor of this type of work. According to a recent survey, 74% of professionals expect remote work to become standard.

Research shows a positive uptick in remote work—and positive benefits that come from it.

LinkedIn Changemaker and disability inclusion consultant, Martyn Sibley, said: “Disabled people face many barriers in daily life. Workplace barriers are the most disabling for two reasons – because work provides us with financial independence and is also fulfilling mentally. Flexible working can help remove some of these barriers and create new employment opportunities, which is extremely positive for disabled people, employers and society as a whole. As companies consider what the future of work looks like, I’m hopeful that they will use this moment to redesign work to make it more inclusive for all.”

Here are some ways in which remote work is inclusive.

It allows flexibility for parenting

Without a commute and having to be in an office all day, parents of children of all ages have more flexibility when arranging daycare, scheduling pickups to and from school, and being present at home.

Also, statistically, women are the primary caretakers in our country and have to adjust their careers more than men do. If women are in this position, remote work allows them more freedom to be both a parent and an employee.

It’s more economically inclusive

Before the pandemic, many employees not only commuted but super commuted—meaning they traveled more than 90 minutes each way, mainly due to the economic limitations that come with living in a more populated (or popular) city.

Now, due to the uptick of remote roles, people no longer have to live in the same city as their company, saving money and allowing flexibility to travel or live anywhere in the U.S.—or abroad depending on their company’s rules.

It benefits employees of color

Unfortunately, people of color who work in predominantly white offices are likely to experience racism of all types.

“Employees of color face microaggressions and friction in the office on a regular basis,” Subramanian says. “When that happens in-person, there’s more pressure on the employees to grin and bear it, or ignore the comment, whereas in a remote environment, there’s the freedom to close your laptop and walk away, and less opportunities for microaggressions to happen in the first place,” Sheela Subramanian, the vice president of the Future Forum said.

It’s more accessible for people with physical or mental limitations  

Did you know that over six million people in America’s workforce have some form of disability? Both commuting and in-person work limit people with disabilities, depending on their nature.

Additionally, a recent Wall Street Journal piece examined how the pandemic has created a new space for neurodiverse candidates within cybersecurity jobs. It highlights how video conferencing features specifically are particularly helpful for people with ADHD or those with auditory processing disorders.

Ultimately, remote work has proven to open more doors than the traditional in-person office model does. It’s proven to produce the same or more levels of productivity while also catering to a more inclusive community.

Many of us have memories of being a child and having an idea of what we “wanted to be when we grew up.” Adults would ask. We’d be assigned prompts from teachers begging the question. We’d see our role models reflected in TV, books, or current events that made us want—or not want—to pursue the same career(s) as them.

This led us to try and think of our dream job, a concept that most likely evolved. Maybe you’re even still figuring out what your dream job is. Or perhaps you have an idea of it but don’t know where to start. We’ve rounded up some tips for overcoming self-doubt and pursuing your dream job.

Acknowledge any self-doubt—but don’t let it stop you

When you were younger, were you told you’d be president one day? If so, you’re not alone. A lot of us grew up with an ambitious goal in mind. Although you still may not want to be president, it doesn’t hurt to have lofty goals. On the journey to accomplish these goals—and land your dream job—it’s also fundamental to recognize any self-doubt that could be lingering.

Recognize that success doesn’t happen overnight, but you can set small goals for yourself on the way to achieving bigger ones.  

Recognize excuses

What’s stopping you from landing your dream job? Well, I’m sure a lot of things. Most people must make money in some way, even if it’s not at their dream gig. The important thing is to examine excuses when they arise. Say you can’t make a networking event—why is that? What are you prioritizing in your life over it? Once we allow ourselves to examine our excuses and re-frame our mindset around them, we open up opportunities to carve out time for larger goals.

Build a career-specific resume

The art of the resume evolves every day. Be sure to stay on top of current resume trends and buzzwords. Also, keep in mind that employers could be looking for a resume tailored to the job. If you’re making a pivot to a job in graphic design, you’re going to want to follow current graphic design trends—especially from the companies you’re applying to.

Build a network

Network, network, network. The only way employers will know you’re interested is if you put yourself out there. Reach out to people at your dream company or those who have your dream role. Interview them and pick their brain about their job and industry. Also, you may want to consider joining a job search club. Doing all of this will help build your network—and you may learn helpful information in the meantime.

Pick up freelancing

The Great Resignation is continuing to shake up traditional workplace standards. It’s also a time when more people have switched to freelancing. According to a study from freelancing platform Upwork, 36 percent of the U.S. workforce did freelance jobs during 2021, an increase of 2 million people from the year before. Even if you’re not ready to make a full-time career move, you still can build a portfolio and gain experience through freelancing.

So you may have wanted to be an astronaut at the age of five and now you have a different job in mind. Regardless of the career, if you are dedicated and engaged, your genuine interest in your dream job will ultimately shine through.