4 answers
Payton
Student
Shelton, Connecticut
1
Question
Asked
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What are some pros and cons of being a news anchor?
I have experience with anchoring for my school news and have really enjoyed it wondering if this may be a career for me and could use some advice and insight
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4 answers
Jason Flint
Crisis Response and Workplace Experience
54
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hi Payton, if you enjoy local or national news and stay up to date on the latest stories, this would be a great fit. Anchors likely work irregular hours to prep for broadcast and also cover breaking news. There can be some stress involved with the fast paced environment. If you do excellent work, you can become a household name and be seen as someone trustworthy in your community. You can also branch off into other areas with the developed communication skills such as government.
The one thing to keep in mind is that there's a path to get to being a news anchor that likely starts with being a reporter and understanding content creation, filming, editing, research and working with technical crews in the field.
The one thing to keep in mind is that there's a path to get to being a news anchor that likely starts with being a reporter and understanding content creation, filming, editing, research and working with technical crews in the field.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1914
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
I am completely enthusiastic about supporting and advising you on this career choice because there are way so many things you can do with your skills - even right now. Your current enjoyment of this field of work is telling you something.
Where do I begin ? Well, for starters, you don't need a college degree for this but it will greatly (and I emphasize greatly) help. In today's world, as the degree gives you an edge over others who may not have formal training and the competition on all the diverse avenues you can take is a consideration in deciding to go to college for this. You will also broaden your chances for work opportunities while you are in college, too.
Let's begin with what you can do right now. In a few words, you can have your own show. Go to a video hosting website similar to You Tube and register for a channel. Think about what type of show you would love to do. Local news, an interview show, a specific topic show, hosting talent, etc. Than record the show and upload it to the channel website on your account. This is a great start because you will always have examples of your work to show in any situation such as interviews for jobs or for college admissions.
With your skills, you can also be on screen talent for commercials, voice over work, and build up a resume. In or outside of college, I would suggest taking courses or workshops in acting and improvisation. Good majors if you decide to go to college would be, Mass Media, Journalism, Film and Television, Communication Studies. I also advise learning the software for video editing and reading up about lighting and photography.. I lean towards doing this degree at an academic college as opposed to a small media school.
You will have to think about any downside about this profession and the only thing I can think of is that it is competitive. Aren't all fields of work competitive, though ? So that's no reason to discount something you love because of fear of failure. You already have an edge with on screen work and can easily transfer that experience into independent video producing of your own show. You will probably learn more doing that as you go along.
If you decide to go to college, after you get your degree, look for a job at a media company and continue to consider producing your own projects, too. I hope that this has helped.
Best wishes in all you do !
Where do I begin ? Well, for starters, you don't need a college degree for this but it will greatly (and I emphasize greatly) help. In today's world, as the degree gives you an edge over others who may not have formal training and the competition on all the diverse avenues you can take is a consideration in deciding to go to college for this. You will also broaden your chances for work opportunities while you are in college, too.
Let's begin with what you can do right now. In a few words, you can have your own show. Go to a video hosting website similar to You Tube and register for a channel. Think about what type of show you would love to do. Local news, an interview show, a specific topic show, hosting talent, etc. Than record the show and upload it to the channel website on your account. This is a great start because you will always have examples of your work to show in any situation such as interviews for jobs or for college admissions.
With your skills, you can also be on screen talent for commercials, voice over work, and build up a resume. In or outside of college, I would suggest taking courses or workshops in acting and improvisation. Good majors if you decide to go to college would be, Mass Media, Journalism, Film and Television, Communication Studies. I also advise learning the software for video editing and reading up about lighting and photography.. I lean towards doing this degree at an academic college as opposed to a small media school.
You will have to think about any downside about this profession and the only thing I can think of is that it is competitive. Aren't all fields of work competitive, though ? So that's no reason to discount something you love because of fear of failure. You already have an edge with on screen work and can easily transfer that experience into independent video producing of your own show. You will probably learn more doing that as you go along.
If you decide to go to college, after you get your degree, look for a job at a media company and continue to consider producing your own projects, too. I hope that this has helped.
Best wishes in all you do !
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
472
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hello Payton, you've asked some fantastic questions!
Here are seven perks of pursuing a career in Journalism:
1. It's a profession where learning is part of the job.
2. You get to work on exhilarating and challenging projects.
3. You'll be surrounded by knowledgeable and passionate colleagues.
4. There's a great sense of accomplishment in this field.
5. It offers opportunities to travel.
6. You'll meet a wide range of fascinating individuals.
7. You'll become a well-informed member of your community.
However, there are a few downsides to be aware of:
Long Hours - Journalists often have extended workdays, especially when they're trying to break a story and secure important interviews. Each story requires substantial research, including finding relevant sources and verifying facts. This can be exhausting and often leads to journalists having to cancel social plans.
Stress - The role of a journalist can be stressful due to the constant pressure of meeting deadlines. Frequent travel can also impact their physical health. News organizations strive to be the first to report an incident, which can create a high-stress environment. If you're not comfortable with stress, journalism might not be the best fit for you.
Risk - Journalists frequently put themselves in dangerous situations to cover a story. This could involve reporting from a riot, war zone, or other violent disturbances. Crime journalists, in particular, may face threats, intimidation, and non-lethal violence. If you're uncomfortable with this level of risk, it would be best to steer clear of crime journalism.
Here are seven perks of pursuing a career in Journalism:
1. It's a profession where learning is part of the job.
2. You get to work on exhilarating and challenging projects.
3. You'll be surrounded by knowledgeable and passionate colleagues.
4. There's a great sense of accomplishment in this field.
5. It offers opportunities to travel.
6. You'll meet a wide range of fascinating individuals.
7. You'll become a well-informed member of your community.
However, there are a few downsides to be aware of:
Long Hours - Journalists often have extended workdays, especially when they're trying to break a story and secure important interviews. Each story requires substantial research, including finding relevant sources and verifying facts. This can be exhausting and often leads to journalists having to cancel social plans.
Stress - The role of a journalist can be stressful due to the constant pressure of meeting deadlines. Frequent travel can also impact their physical health. News organizations strive to be the first to report an incident, which can create a high-stress environment. If you're not comfortable with stress, journalism might not be the best fit for you.
Risk - Journalists frequently put themselves in dangerous situations to cover a story. This could involve reporting from a riot, war zone, or other violent disturbances. Crime journalists, in particular, may face threats, intimidation, and non-lethal violence. If you're uncomfortable with this level of risk, it would be best to steer clear of crime journalism.
Amy C.
Director of Strategic Communications
35
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Amy’s Answer
Pros of Being a News Anchor
High Visibility and Influence
News anchors are often public figures with the ability to shape public opinion and inform their audience.
Exciting Work Environment
The newsroom can be dynamic, fast-paced, and full of interesting stories and events.
Opportunities for Personal Growth
Anchors develop skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and on-the-spot problem-solving.
Networking Opportunities
Anchors interact with industry leaders, politicians, and other influential figures.
Creative Outlet
They often have input on how stories are presented, providing opportunities for storytelling and creativity.
Prestige and Recognition
Anchors are often respected community figures and may enjoy a level of celebrity status.
Potential for Career Advancement
Successful anchors can move to larger markets, national networks, or even transition into other media roles.
Cons of Being a News Anchor
High Pressure and Stress
Deadlines, breaking news, and the need for accuracy can create a stressful work environment.
Irregular Hours
Early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays are common for news anchors, especially during breaking news coverage.
Public Scrutiny
Anchors are often in the spotlight and may face criticism for their appearance, delivery style, or opinions.
Job Instability
The media industry can be volatile, with layoffs or reassignments due to ratings or budget cuts.
Limited Editorial Freedom
Anchors must often adhere to the editorial stance or policies of their network, which can restrict personal expression.
Emotional Toll
Reporting on tragic or controversial topics can be emotionally draining.
Demanding Preparation
Anchors must stay informed on a wide range of topics, requiring constant research and preparation.
High Visibility and Influence
News anchors are often public figures with the ability to shape public opinion and inform their audience.
Exciting Work Environment
The newsroom can be dynamic, fast-paced, and full of interesting stories and events.
Opportunities for Personal Growth
Anchors develop skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and on-the-spot problem-solving.
Networking Opportunities
Anchors interact with industry leaders, politicians, and other influential figures.
Creative Outlet
They often have input on how stories are presented, providing opportunities for storytelling and creativity.
Prestige and Recognition
Anchors are often respected community figures and may enjoy a level of celebrity status.
Potential for Career Advancement
Successful anchors can move to larger markets, national networks, or even transition into other media roles.
Cons of Being a News Anchor
High Pressure and Stress
Deadlines, breaking news, and the need for accuracy can create a stressful work environment.
Irregular Hours
Early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays are common for news anchors, especially during breaking news coverage.
Public Scrutiny
Anchors are often in the spotlight and may face criticism for their appearance, delivery style, or opinions.
Job Instability
The media industry can be volatile, with layoffs or reassignments due to ratings or budget cuts.
Limited Editorial Freedom
Anchors must often adhere to the editorial stance or policies of their network, which can restrict personal expression.
Emotional Toll
Reporting on tragic or controversial topics can be emotionally draining.
Demanding Preparation
Anchors must stay informed on a wide range of topics, requiring constant research and preparation.