To work as a political editor, you’ll need extensive training and a thorough understanding of both journalism and politics. This detailed job is one of the highest-paying jobs in print, digital, or broadcast media, and it’s only for people who have a track record of success. Though the path to becoming a political editor can be long, those who aspire to this prestigious position can begin their preparation as early as high school.
Young students who want to pursue a career in political journalism should begin their education and career planning early. Reading prestigious news journals, watching reputable television news, and learning about local, regional, and national politics are all excellent ways to prepare for a future career as a political journalist. Students could work for a school newspaper, intern at a local radio or television station, or even start their own political news website on the Internet. Early experience in politics and journalism can help a student get into a good college, which is an important step in becoming a political editor.
Most future political editors will major in political science, journalism, or communications in college. Some people choose to pursue graduate degrees in addition to an undergraduate degree, though this is not always a job requirement. Internships and volunteer opportunities at newspapers and broadcast stations, involvement in campus politics and student initiatives, and work for the student newspaper are all ways for students to advance their career goals while still in school. Any journalistic experience can be put to good use in building a portfolio, which will be necessary in the professional world.
Following graduation, newly minted professionals will need to find work in the news industry, such as at a television station, news magazine, or digital newspaper. While entry-level jobs may offer little in the way of pay, responsibility, or fame, they do provide an opportunity for new professionals to get a feel for the workplace, make important contacts, and begin building a reputation as a journalist or political expert. Keeping up with political developments and seeking out any opportunities to help cover campaigns or political stories is critical at this stage in one’s quest to become a political editor.
Finding a job as a political editor in the professional world is a combination of talent, reputation, and luck. Journalists may need to work their way up from entry-level positions through the ranks of the industry over many years. A political editor typically has decades of experience producing journalism, conducting interviews, and uncovering stories that bring acclaim to his or her organization. In some cases, it may be necessary to leave a more senior position to work as a political editor for a smaller or less prestigious news organization, then work your way up through the editorial ranks.