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Join TSPR for a weekly conversation about media issues. News Director Rich Egger and expert panelists discuss what’s in the news about the news business.

Reporter Skills Translate Well to Other Jobs

The Shop Talk panelists discuss why businesses outside of journalism are interested in luring away reporters.  The panelists feel the skills required of journalists are attractive to those hiring for other types of positions.

Panelist Rich Egger said other jobs often provide better pay and better hours, which appeals to journalists who are having second thoughts about their career. He said those who report the news have a passion for it – and sometimes that fire burns out.

Panelist Jasmine Crighton said one of her former students is being wooed away from his reporting job, in part because of the long hours and requirements to work on weekends and holidays.  She believes businesses are interested in hiring away reporters because journalists can write, multi-task, edit video, deal with the public – and the list goes on. 

Crighton worries when journalists decide they’re no longer interested in reporting. But she said she wants her students and former students to be happy and feel fulfilled, no matter what career path they pursue.

Panelist Jonathan Ahl said he also worries about the shrinking size of the industry and the low compensation for many reporters.  But he has no problem teaching journalism to students who won’t go into the field because he thinks it at least helps them look at the world in different ways.

Ahl said college should not be just about teaching a trade, it should teach students to think critically.  And he said journalism does that very well.

Rich is TSPR's News Director.