The trend of journalists transitioning to marketing and communications jobs has become more prominent. I had the same transition 11 years ago leaving the journalism world for marketing.
I began my journalism career as an intern at a local broadcast station. I was fortunate enough to be able to write for my hometown Hamburg Sun. There was no better job than a better team! Being a part of the community I love and writing for it was an honor.
The grind started to wear me down when I moved on to another publication. There are a lot of demands in the news industry. My husband and I hadn’t yet started our family, and I knew I wouldn’t want to miss my kids growing up because I was chasing a story. So I began looking for jobs in the marketing and communications field. Throughout the interview process, I showcased my journalistic skills and how they would be ideal for the organization’s marketing and PR objectives.
For my journalist friends, when it comes to refocusing your resume and preparing for interviews, here are elements of your talents that you can use to rebrand yourself to fit into marketing roles.
1. Journalists know how to tell a story
Effective marketing, communications, and public relations strategy need good storytelling – and guess what – no one knows how to tell a story better than you!
When it comes to crisis communications – you’re an ace. You know the perspective the news industry will want to angle a story. This preparation allows you to stand out more than anyone. You’ll know how to be a step ahead of the news crew. For the fluffier pieces of news, you know how to draft a press release that print news won’t have to edit and how to sell it so that television and print will want to cover it.
2. Multitasking and quick learning are strengths
Many moons ago, journalists only focused on the reporting aspect of the story – but with crunched budgets that have resulted in reduced staff, you’ve had to get crafty and learn skills quickly. For that, you are effective Jacks and Jills of all trades!
You usually develop the concept, write, shoot, and edit your stories. Put it in this context. What you do on your own other businesses have dedicated positions and departments!
3. You have a network to pitch stories to
The benefit of being in the news industry is that you know people. Whether it’s colleagues within your organization or other media outlets, you know the point person that can help share the news an organization is trying to get coverage for.
Your Rolodex of contacts will be an asset to an organization. Bonus points if you are a local household name. This can also be an asset for an organization looking to boost its company profile. Bonus points if you are a local household name.
4. You’ve got social media down pat
Marketing and communications firms require social media backgrounds to develop connections to their tailored audiences.
As a journalist, you know how vital it is to connect what’s happening in the community to your social media profiles. Because of that, you’ve mastered communication techniques for social media. Your social media profiles are also likely well followed, furthering your connection. It’s always good to sell yourself that way. You can bring awareness and a following to the organization.
There will be learning curves
As with any new job, switching gears will involve a learning curve depending on the marketing discipline and field you’re entering. Many journalists have received their degree in communications, so there’s a foundation with some previous marketing and public relations courses that can help with the transition.
Connect with those that have left the field and found their way into marketing and communications roles. They can give you good tips for applying and can help serve as a how-to guide as you transition roles.
Open communication with your new employer is vital too. You offer a fresh perspective for the organization, so do your research and offer ideas that can help reach their audience. Also, do check-ins to ensure you’re meeting the role’s goals.
Ready to check out some new opportunties? Visit buffalocommunicationsjobs.com for the latest listings.