The News Manual is a resource and guide which was initially aimed at Journalists in the field within developed countries. It lists four key motives for entering this field:

“The desire to write, to be known, to influence for good and the desire for knowledge.”

There are of course specific technical skills that you will need to be a great journalist, but the News Manual sums up the required soft skills and attributes nicely…

When you check out job advertisements for Journalists, you’ll notice that what employers are seeking does, in fact, resonate with the above:

“Must possess a high proficiency in English with a strong passion for publishing and media”

“An ability to work to deadlines”

“We are seeking an energetic individual, who is comfortable with board-level communication as well as being instinctive when it comes to identifying trends and opportunities”

“Your ability to develop strong contacts within the community will ensure success in this role”

“You will be required to part take in research, pick the phone up to people and get your name out there”

Journalism is not for the faint-hearted, you’ll need passion and you need to be a go-getter.

These position requirements have been a taken from a variety of positions via Seek.com