Are you eager to become a sports journalist? Here are some tips from professionals to help you break into the industry.
Work ethic
As you will have come to expect, with both your exams behind you and a sports journalism course, nothing is guaranteed. You have to graft if you want to carve your mark in the industry, which is exactly what Sky Sports presenter Jo Wilson emphasises in saying that industry newcomers should work hard and take all opportunities they are faced with: “hard work pays off eventually”.
If you don’t yet have a sports journalism qualification under your belt, then browse courses at https://schoolofjournalism.co.uk/journalism-courses/sports/.
Be Curious
Journalist and author Tim Harford states in his book “How to Make the World Add Up” that curiosity is one of the ten principles a journalist should go by, with asking lots of questions and digging deeper being a “golden rule” in his eyes.
Attitude Is Everything
It’s important to love what you do. Nearly all journalists, no matter their field or specialism, will tell you to show enthusiasm and positivity to open up opportunities in places you might not expect.
Think Strategically
Last, but not least, Dharmesh Sheth of Sky Sports News once told reporters that the key to success is to build contacts wherever you go – advice that he received from other journalists when he entered the industry. By being strategic and connecting with as many people as possible, the relationships you build could be crucial to your career path.