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published as a pdf ebook journalism careers – your questions answered isn’t the usual type of writers “how to”.
instead it delivers quick and punchy information written in a question and answer format on the most common queries raised by prospective journalists thinking of embarking on a media career.
written by freelance journalist sean mcmanus, the questions are taken from five years email queries submitted through his site, journalismcareers.
like a lot of would be journalists, when starting out, sean did not have any recognised media training other than a stint working for his university newspaper which he admits did prove invaluable in helping him to gain his first position.
this was as a graduate trainee for an air traffic magazine which went on to become a permanent position within a relatively short space of time. sean explains that graduate traineeships are still a good way of breaking into journalism and information on where to look for these is just one of the many insider tips featured in the book.
the book is divided into sections and cover various areas including, staff jobs, freelancing, photojournalism, interviewing techniques, research, skills needed, how to approach editors. all the usual stuff you would expect a book of this type to contain, except this one is based on real life questions and the answers and are based on sean’s own freelance writing experiences.
the real gems though are the little known tips that emerge through sean’s answers, such as the warning to take care when responding to correspondence courses advertised in general, mainstream publications. these, he says, are likely to be selling a dream, rather than a genuine desire to get you into journalism.
how to obtain and use a press card was another of my favourites. i have rarely seen this covered elsewhere and sean’s answers on this subject soon dispelled the myth that it is an important “must have” if you are to make it in journalism.
there is a section devoted entirely to music journalism which is a must read for anyone who wants to write for this area. sean’s detailed, first hand knowledge shines through his answers giving advice on, how to find records for review, approaching artists for interviews, sources for obtaining interviews and how to conduct the interviews themselves.
since freelancing is about being paid for what you do, there is some advice on this with rates quoted for different journalism jobs although sean does stress that these can and do vary enormously.
the journalismcareers website, has some useful writing exercises posted and sean is willing to offer feedback to anyone who purchases a copy of journalismcareers – your questions answered. also, if you have a question that hasn’t been covered in the book he will answer that without charge. all offers apply within 3 months of purchase.
another plus is the entitlement to free updates when the book is updated. coupled with the money back guarantee, journalism careers – your questions answered, represents a very fine introduction to journalism and what’s more, it comes straight from the horse’s mouth!
journalism careers – your questions answered by sean mcmanus is available from journalismcareers price: ?9.95 or $15.95 click here | 
