Freelance Journalism
Journalism is one of the most popular freelance careers... the number of newspapers and magazines is on the increase and the subject includes photography, magazines, radio and the Web.What does it take to be a good freelance journalist? Top of the tree is perseverance. Not only do you need to have a way with words, a naturally inquisitive nature, an enquiring mind, an interest in your local community as much as world events but a penchant for unsocial hours. This isn't a 9 - 5 career.
A good starting place is your local newspaper or radio - it's essential for building up your portfolio and for honing your journalistic skills plus it'll give you the chance to mix with people in the media. Write an article and send it in - what's the worst that can happen?!
Journalism's a popular choice for freelancers who have worked in associated fields - and particularly suitable if you bring specialist knowledge with you whether it's travel writing, fiction or cookery.
If you're lacking in formal technique, the Internet is awash with training courses - do your research first, as any good investigative journalist would. Chew your biro, take up smoking and drinking, and you're halfway there...
