What is Broadcast Journalism and How Can I Pursue a Career in It?

What is Broadcast Journalism?

Broadcast journalism is reporting news using various kinds of broadcast media like the TV, internet and radio, along with multiple aspects of traditional print (newspapers, magazines, etc.) journalism. Broadcast journalism is a rapidly expanding field. A study conducted by KPMG on behalf of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) called The Future: Now Streaming shows that the Indian Media and Entertainment industry is expected to grow at a CAGR (compounded annual growth rate) of 14.3% and reach a massive valuation of Rs. 2.26 trillion by 2020.

The world of broadcast and journalism is a fast-paced one with news stories being delivered across various broadcast channels almost immediately after they are generated. The entire process involves using traditional journalism skills like interviewing members of the public, gleaning the facts of a news story and then adapting the content for television, radio or the internet which involves writing segments for the TV or radio, anchoring and recording those segments and then editing them before the broadcast. Sometimes such segments are broadcast live from the locations where events are occurring.

What is the Difference Between Print and Broadcast Journalism?

As the name suggests, ‘print journalism’ is the on-paper reporting of news stories and other content in newspapers and magazines. This also includes photographing, collecting, writing and editing for these media outlets. The common aspect between print and broadcast journalism is that both mass communication vehicles disseminate information to the public. Broadcast journalism, on the other hand, makes use of electronic means to do the same. It primarily comprises of radio journalism, television journalism and internet journalism. It is more real-time in nature than its printed counterpart.

What Skills Do I Need to Become a Successful Broadcast Journalist?

As with aspiring broadcast journalists, you must take a keen interest in people and current affairs and have good general knowledge. Developing your oral and written communication skills is vital to get your story across excitingly and factually correct. Language skills are often helpful, especially if you would like to travel as a part of your career. Attention to detail is a must.

Interpersonal skills will help you create a bond with your interviewees, the public and help you climb up the career ladder quickly.

If you want to work in broadcast journalism's technical side, you need to thoroughly understand the types of AV equipment used as well as editing and other software. Be tenacious, confident and methodical in your work we guarantee you will be successful.

At Seamedu, we believe in ‘learning by doing’. A majority of our coursework involves actively going out into the field, uncovering news stories of interest and developing them under the guidance of our faculty and industry experts. This helps you hone your skills in real-life situations so you are prepared right from the moment you graduate.

What Does a Broadcast Journalist Do?

Broadcast Journalists have the same responsibilities to the public as traditional print journalists and the ethics of presenting unbiased facts regarding news stories remain very much the same. The responsibilities of broadcast journalists vary from role to role and can also depend on the media being used to disseminate news. Here are few duties you might find yourself in charge of:

• Generating ideas for news stories, following leads and pitching the ideas to editors and producers.
• Writing scripts for news broadcasts, bulletins and documentaries.
• Conducting research, collecting evidence and conducting interviews to verify and uncover facts behind a news item.
• Anchoring a news report in front of a camera, on the radio or for a podcast.
• Reporting on stories as they happen on location.
• Using different forms of social media to publicise a particular story.
• Liaising with different news agencies, government bodies, and police along with conducting press conferences.
• Editing news reports submitted by broadcast journalists before they are aired or published online.
• Public relations.
• Recording material using different audio-visual equipment.
• Producing entire shows for broadcast.

As you can see the possibilities are endless. All you have to do is choose what you like best!

Working hours can vary depending on your role. Many broadcast journalists work odd hours or shifts to ensure no breaking news stories are missed. Early radio and television news broadcasts are standard as are ones late at night. You may also need to travel to different places to report stories occurring there.

How Can I Make a Long-Term Career in Broadcast Journalism and Mass Communication?

The scope for a rewarding career in mass communication is massive. However, a solid foundation in broadcast journalism and mass communication principles is essential. A good broadcast journalism course after your 12th grade will give you this and ensure that you develop the different skill sets required to succeed.

For instance, you will learn not only how to communicate well but also how to produce, edit, and use different technologies to effectively communicate your stories to the audience.

Networking within the industry is also a key factor. This is why we, at Seamedu, ensure our students have ample opportunity to do this while still studying through guest lectures, visits to different media houses and placements. The scope for broadcast journalism careers in India is huge – all you need is the right training.

If you think a career in broadcast journalism is definitely your cup of tea, read all about it on our broadcast journalism degree course page and blog and get in touch with us!