I wanted to get your advice on something. Just like all
newspapers across the nation, my paper has gone full-speed ahead with
video and multimedia. I think it's a good thing, although they haven't
worked out the kinks yet.
ASK JOE
A QUESTION
|
To get your question answered on this page,
send
it to Joe here. Please include your full name in your message to Joe.
If you prefer that your surname not be published, please indicate
that. Sign up to receive Ask The Recruiter by
e-mail:
* Click
here (sent Monday-Friday at 8
a.m.) |
|
My question is: If I were to indicate to the bosses that I would like
to do more video and multimedia stuff, possibly full time, will I have
a chance to return to reporting? Or is this a point of no return? I'd
like to keep my options open if possible, but knowing the way things
are, it can be a Catch-22. The position I'm in barely allows enough
time to do both.
Any advice is appreciated.
Emily
You're so wise to look for ways to expand into new media --
and to do it without getting pigeonholed in a job that could keep you
away from what you want to do.
I am seeing a lot more possibilities for people who create blends or
combinations. Examples: The sports writer who concentrates on the
intersection of sports and contemporary issues, the features writer who
works the seam between pop culture and national or generational divides.
Expect some kinks as new technology is rushed online -- and it will be rushed,
as the space between developments is getting shorter and shorter. I
would try to grab a piece of video and multimedia without giving up the
reporting, where your greatest strength is today. Merge the two.
You'll have to discover that blend. But I see the transition you're
talking about as a morph rather than a cut.
The people who create combinations of two or more passions and skills
will be inventing new jobs for the industry and security for themselves.
Coming Tuesday: By the time this journalist is out of military service, recent clips will be four years old.
