10 key steps to building a career in multimedia journalism

If the answer is a resonant "YES," then the dynamic realm of multimedia journalism might just be your dream career!

In this blog post, we're happy to introduce you to Barbara Erling – a multimedia journalist coming from Poland. With an impressive journey spanning from TV production at TVP Polish Television to the fast-paced world of CNN Indonesia, Barbara's career has been an exciting rollercoaster ride of diverse and captivating experiences.

So, let's dive deep into the secrets of multimedia journalism with Barbara as our guide! Discover the keys to capturing minds with your stories in the digital era.

We present 10 valuable tips:

1) Embrace digital tools and leverage social media platforms:

In the realm of multimedia journalism, digital tools and social media platforms are your allies in reaching a broader audience. Develop a strong presence on social media and master the craft of sharing your stories effectively across different platforms. Engaging with your audience through these channels not only helps you connect with readers but also widens the impact of your journalistic efforts.

2) Stay curious and analytical:

The basis of every great journalist lies in determined curiosity and analytical thinking. Dedicate much time to research and delve into your subjects deeply. Analysing data, if relevant to your stories, empowers you to craft well-informed and engaging content. Coupling curiosity with analytical prowess ensures your work resonates with readers and captures their attention.

3) Balance quantity and quality:

In the fast-paced world of multimedia journalism, the demand for content is constant. However, it is crucial to strike a balance between the quantity of articles you produce and the quality they possess. Tailor your output to suit the complexity of each story, ensuring that every piece meets the highest journalistic standards.

4) Embody the journalistic mission:

Multimedia journalists are driven by a noble mission—to spread awareness, inform, educate, and ignite curiosity about the world. Embrace this mission wholeheartedly and let it be the guiding light in your storytelling journey. Having a clear sense of purpose will keep you motivated and focused, even amidst challenges and uncertainties in the industry.

5) Multitasking in multimedia journalism:

Multimedia journalism means taking on multiple roles in the storytelling process. As a video journalist, you may find yourself not just reporting but also operating the camera, handling audio, editing videos, and even designing graphics. This ability to multitask allows you to be adaptable and creative, attributes that are highly valued in the industry.

6) Seek professional development opportunities:

To stay ahead in the competitive world of journalism, grab every opportunity to grow professionally. Improving your data journalism skills and becoming proficient in data visualisation will empower you to present compelling stories backed by meaningful insights.

7) Stand out with unique skills:

In a landscape filled with talented journalists, setting yourself apart is key to success. Cultivate unique skills such as data analysis, programming, and graphic design. By expanding your skill set beyond traditional journalism, you demonstrate adaptability and versatility, features that attract attention and bring broader possibilities.

8) Cultivate Tech-savviness:

For aspiring technology journalists, cultivating tech-savviness is a must. Specialise in one or two tech fields that suit you the most, whether it's cybersecurity, digital media, or AI-related topics. Deepening your knowledge in these areas allows you to provide comprehensive and expert coverage of the tech industry.

9) Be ready for experimentation:

Multimedia journalism is founded on innovation and experimentation. Challenge yourself to explore new storytelling formats and platforms. Don't hesitate to try TikTok videos or Instagram Stories, as each experiment offers a chance to learn, grow, and adapt to emerging trends. Embracing experimentation helps you stay relevant and open to new possibilities.

10) Use social media for networking:

Leveraging the power of social media is not just about reaching a wider audience—it's also a vital tool for networking. Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter offer opportunities to connect with fellow journalists, industry professionals, and potential employers. Building a strong online presence and showcasing your work can lead to exciting collaborations and career advancements.