Journalists Job roles, responsibilities, descriptions and duties

Date of posting: 13 Jan 20
  

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