An online journalist creates and distributes news content over the internet. Online journalists, like other types of journalists, try to answer the “Five Ws” of an event: who, what, when, where, why, and how. Ordinary news content is usually presented in the form of a written article with an objective viewpoint. Opinion pieces and blogs can give a story a more personal touch. On a freelance basis, online journalists frequently work from home.
A bachelor’s degree may be required for those wishing to work as an online journalist, though online journalism allows for more educational flexibility than traditional journalism. Communications, journalism, and a native language like English are all popular degrees for online journalists. Experience working in student publications can also be beneficial for aspiring online journalists. Putting together a portfolio of writing samples can help aspiring online journalists attract paying clients.
Online journalists frequently write blogs to attract the attention of publishers and the general public in their field of expertise before securing writing contracts. Personal websites, pages dedicated to blogging, and professional news websites can all host blogs. Blogging has recently gained popularity as a means of reporting and debating news and ideas. Many well-known public figures contribute to blogs on a regular basis.
An online journalist can seek contracts with news publishers after assembling a portfolio of writing samples. Freelancing is when you work with publishers from afar, or exclusively through the mail, phone, and Internet. An online journalist might pitch an article idea to a publisher and then sign a contract with the publisher that includes regular writing assignments.
Online journalists can collaborate with a wide range of news services. Many traditional newspapers, such as The New York Times and USA Today, publish online content. Cable news networks can hire online journalists for their websites if they primarily produce content for cable television. The Seattle Post-Intelligencer, for example, only publishes online content.
Online journalists spend the majority of their time developing story ideas and producing articles when they are not promoting their work or looking for new contracts. For their story’s content, this may entail conducting research and interviews. It may also be necessary to locate photographs or collaborate with a photographer to include images in the article. Because they are usually competing with other journalists for an audience’s attention, online journalists must make their articles grab the attention of online viewers.
As a freelance online journalist, you may have benefits and drawbacks compared to other types of jobs. For starters, working from home gives a journalist the flexibility to set her own hours. It can also help you save money on transportation and office costs. However, most online journalists do not have a set salary. They are frequently compensated based on the number of contracts they are able to secure, which can vary from month to month.