Since your interest is in sports journalism, start a sports blog detailing commentary, highlights, and results from sporting events you attend. Also, fill your blog with stories and interviews you have conducted with athletes and coaches.
If you are getting a degree in journalism, make sure the program offers courses that will give you professional qualifications, like shorthand and media law. [2] X Research source
Knowing a foreign language is also a major asset in journalism. It will enable you to work with different ethnic groups and cultures, and thus give you a fresh perspective for your writing.
You can also become an expert by joining a team. By joining a team, you will become familiar with the actual mechanics of the sport, like the game’s rules, the player’s positions, and strategies used by players and coaches to win games. This will enable you to write more candidly about the sport as a journalist. Familiarize yourself with game statistics like team win-loss ratio, player ratings, and injury statistics, as well.
You can obtain an internship through your college program. Ask your program about the internships that are available to you. Also, look for internships through your local newspaper, magazine, or newsletter.
The number of writing pieces to include varies; some jobs will specifically request a certain size portfolio. As you put yours together, be sure to include at least 8 to 10 strong pieces. Your portfolio should also have a brief biography detailing who you are, why you are passionate about sports writing, and why you are a great fit for the job.
Brainstorm different writing ideas and angles before you go into the interview, and make a list of your top three.
Remember to showcase your stuff. Post your best writing on social media outlets like Twitter and Facebook. You can also create your own professional website showcasing your best work. Having a professional website is an easy way for an employer to assess your skills, experience, and qualifications for a potential job.
