Television journalism can certainly be an exciting and fast-paced career. However, it takes a lot of work to get to the point where individuals are actively earning good money and obtaining prestigious assignments as a television journalist. Depending upon an individual's drive, determination and commitment, television journalism may or may not be the right career choice. Learning the inside scope about television journalism can help individuals answer the old-age question, ‘Is a career in television journalism worth pursuing?’
How Much are Television Journalists Paid?
First things first – the amount a television journalist is paid depends upon several things – such as which company the journalist works at, what position they hold, what responsibilities they are given, and what kinds of reporting they’re actually doing.
According to BLS the majority of television journalists earned between $24,370 and $51,700 in 2006 while the highest percentage earned well over $73,000 a year. The lowest percentage earned just over $19,000 a year. The pay for television journalists can differ significantly depending upon which branch of television journalism the individual choose as well. For instance, t.v. journalists covering local political events will likely make less than those covering national political events.
However, with the right reporting and if a reporter can get their foot in the right door, the pay can be absolutely wonderful. Plus, most television journalists cover a wide array of stories and meet diverse individuals and can truly make a difference on the way news is reported.
Demands on Time of Television Journalists
Television journalists are often on call the way a doctor is, because no one can set hours on when a story will break or when information will be found. A television journalist working at a small, local media outlet is likely to have more personal time than a television journalist who works with a massive media outlet like the Today Show or CNN. The demand on time simply depends upon what kinds of stories the journalist is following, which company they work with and more.
Fame/Accomplishments of Television Journalists
It doesn’t take much to see that many television journalists have earned a massive amount of fame and accomplishment over the course of their careers. Names like Walter Cronkite, Barbara Walters, Katie Couric, and Edward Murrow spring to mind when one thinks of television journalists. However, the majority of television journalists do not become hugely famous. That does not mean that individuals cannot be an accomplished, famous journalist if they truly desire. It’s about setting important goals and reaching high – not to mention doing a lot of important work to get to where you want to be.
By considering the different aspects of television journalism, individuals can determine whether it’s right or not. The worth is dependent upon their own opinions of television journalism and their personal career desires.
Additional Resource:
Is Television Journalism the Perfect Career?
What Professionals Support Television Journalists?
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