Hold The Front Page
Sydney Morning Herald
Wednesday July 10, 2002
Kate Bice, 45, is a Sydney-based training editor for John Fairfax and Sons Pty Ltd, publisher of The Sydney Morning Herald. With 17 years' experience in journalism, she assists with the recruitment and education of journalism trainees and guides their career development when they secure a permanent position. Amanda Keane, 21, is a graduate of the University of Western Sydney's communications course. She is keen to pursue a career in journalism.
Amanda Keane: Why is there such competition for journalism jobs?
Kate Bice: Journalism is seen as an attractive career because it offers interesting work, flexibility and the opportunity to travel. It's competitive because there are not enough jobs to absorb all the people who do journalism degrees as well as those who come into the field with other qualifications.
AK: What do employers look for when hiring trainees?
KB: People with curiosity, lively and outgoing personalities, courage, good general knowledge and superior research, verbal and writing skills.
Most of our trainees come straight from university and most are in their 20s, though there are a few up to their mid-30s, and we look favourably on previous work experience.
We receive a broad range of applications from people qualified in anything from law to medicine to economics. We won't say `No' to someone who hasn't done tertiary study but they should have something else exceptional to offer.
We will advertise in late July for next year, although the number of traineeships has not yet been decided. Applicants will undergo a series of tests and start in February. For details, follow the Editorial Traineeships link at smh.com.au
AK: Is a traineeship the best starting point?
KB: A one-year traineeship is an excellent entry to the profession, offering a chance to learn on the job and also undertake formal instruction. This year we recruited about 30 trainees for the major metropolitan and regional papers in NSW, plus The Age in Melbourne.
AK: Are journalists in demand?
KB: Talented people are always in demand. That said, the print media are feeling the effects of the new electronic media and the advertising market is in a state of flux. During this period, media organisations are being rather conservative in their hiring policies.
Seeking information about a particular job? Email your questions to johagan@mail.fairfax.com.au and we will publish the answers from an expert.
© 2002 Sydney Morning Herald