Luke
What is it like being in media communications as a career?
I am a sophomore in high school and I am looking at potential careers for my future. Media communications is one that caught my eye and I want to find out more about it from a good source. Media communications seems like it would be an interesting career. Some questions I would like to ask are why did you get into media communications. What are the specific jobs under the media communications category? What is a day in the media communications industry like? Is it best to work as an individual with different clients or for a company? Anything you say to help is appreciated and thank you! #editor #journalist #broadcaster
2 answers
Jara Zerull
Jara’s Answer
A day in the life of someone in Media could be anything. You could be a reporter for a news station and have to work 12 hours overnight outside of a company on strike, you could be working as a director, traveling around the country for months doing college football games, you could be working remotely as an ad sales agent helping the team with sponsorships, you could be an editor working on a late basketball game that goes into numerous overtimes well into the early hours of the morning.
There are so many different avenues in the Media field but something to remember that was shared with me early on is, you can expect to work long hours, weekends, nights and holidays.
Daniela Silva
Daniela’s Answer
Hi Luke,
According to the Media Communications Association, professionals employed in this field use their creative and technological abilities to develop content and promote products or services to potential customers. Media communications professionals work with companies to influence, educate, motivate and inform customers and employees about practices, products and services (www.mca-i.org).
Education Required
A position as a media communications professional usually requires a bachelor's degree in mass media studies, communications, graphic design or a related major. Depending on the program, students may take courses in mass media, graphic design, multimedia studies and project management. Aspiring professionals may also pursue internships or participate in on-the-job training. Continuing education that emphasizes the latest business trends and technology is also required to remain current in the field.
Alternate Career Options
Editors
In general, editors are responsible for reviewing content for accuracy, clarity and grammatical correctness. Some editors may also develop and style digital media and online content. Professional requirements include a 4-year degree in communication studies, English or journalism, along with an understanding of computers and common industry software programs. As reported by the BLS, editors who were employed in May 2012 were paid median yearly salaries of $53,880, and minimal to no change in employment prospects is anticipated through 2022 (www.bls.gov).
Writers and Authors
Most professional writers and authors, including those who produce online content, have a 4-year degree in communication, English, journalism or a related field of study, as well as training in the use of computers and software. Formal training can also provide aspiring professionals with the opportunity to work for a college publication, radio station or television studio, or pursue an industry internship. Between 2012 and 2022, the BLS has projected a 3%, or slower-than-average, increase nationwide for writers and authors. Those employed in the field in May 2012 received median annual wages of $55,940 (www.bls.gov).
Newspaper Reporter
Newspaper reporters gather information and write articles that are published in print and posted online. They acquire information by observation, interviews and research, determining what is important to include in the article. Reporters must possess excellent writing skills and produce articles quickly on a deadline.
Public Relations Specialists
Public relations specialists are employed by an organization to share information with the public. They may work for a business, government, nonprofit group or public relations agency that handles media relations for a number of clients. Public relations specialists write press releases, arrange media coverage and may represent the client at public events.
Advertising Account Executive
Advertising account executives, also called advertising sales agents, sell advertising time or space in newspapers, magazines, radio or television. They visit potential customers to present proposals, and then work as liaisons between the client and the media company to produce the advertisement. Account executives generally have a great deal of freedom in their work, but also must meet sales quotas and may work long, irregular hours.
Read more In: http://study.com/articles/Media_Communications_Professional_Information_About_a_Career_in_Media_Communication.html
http://study.com/articles/Media_and_Communication_Careers_Job_Options_and_Requirements.html
Have a great journey!!