Often one must have heard the phrase nose for news or eye for details Do you to which career this means a lot� Yes it is the field of journalism. Journalism is a career which comes with a lot of respect and responsibility. Journalists are rightly called the fourth estate of any governance. And as the adage goes, pen is mightier than a sword... A little flair for writing clubbed with the above mentioned qualities you could embark on this ever burgeoning career of journalism.
From days of the innocuous static wall posters- the forerunners of the modern newspaper- up to the dynamic online newspapers of today, journalists have been striving hard to quench the information- hungry public in their own inimitable ways. Donning roles of a myriad variety- from the scientific investigative reporter to the meticulous unseen sub-editor, from the flashy freelancer to the popular photojournalist, from the studious educational correspondent to the stock-sensitive share analyst- journalists have been genuinely trying to live up to their role as the responsible Fourth Estate.
Journalism was a few years ago considering a field which is very late rewarding and more like a social service. But with the advent of stupendous competition in the fields, this business also lost its social motive and has become more commercial oriented. What ever said, this is definitely a people oriented field better off than most other career.
What�s the scenario in Chennai like! There is a very strongly erected print media industry. With the fore runners like The Hindu and The New Indian Express! There are also papers like the Deccan chronicle which is quite popular because of their page 3 news. The Times of India just a day old in Chennai Turf is all set to rock the market very soon. So options are many for a person embarking on a career in print media. Electronic Media & New media also proves to provide varied openings. With National news media like NDTV and CNN IBN functioning from their bureau offices here!
News channels are a lucrative option also. There is often no need for a formal academic background in the field but definitely it�s an added advantage to have learnt the technicalities. Many city colleges offer a Diploma in this field and few even offer Post graduation in Journalism like the Madras University.
The skills required are: An interest in current affairs at all levels - A lively interest in people, places and events. An ability to write in a style which is easy to understand! A willingness to accept irregular hours, an ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines! Determination and persistence!
SOWJANYA.S