5 takeaways for EICs in the real world

5 takeaways for EICs in the real world

Students holding the Editor-in-Chief position at their respective publications have a unique opportunity in transitioning to the professional world. Peter Copeland, a journalist and author from Washington, D.C., held a discussion for EICs to share advice on developing skills and mindsets that will help them later on in their careers.

1. Try to learn the business of news

One of the skills EICs have the opportunity to work with is the business side of media. Copeland explained that the business of news changes quickly, and gaining an understanding of the industry as a whole can be beneficial when looking forward to job applications.

2. Learn how to use social media

Young journalists entering the workforce will need social media skills.

“You’re all going to be expected to have social media skills,” Copeland said, with an emphasis on platforms like Twitter.

Personal accounts will be important for students’ professional images as well.

“If you apply for a job, they’re going to look for you on social media,” Copeland said. He advised deleting any posts young professionals might not want to be seen by potential employers now rather than waiting to clean up their profiles later.

3. Don’t ignore difficult staffers

Most publications will deal with difficult staffers at one point or another. Pushing the problem people to another area to ignore them doesn’t fix the problem, Copeland explained.

From Copeland’s experience, it causes problems for everyone internally “if one person is running against the publication.”

4. Remember traits you liked in staffers

Shifting from the university publication EIC position to an entry level journalist job, remember the traits you liked in staffers who worked for you.

Copeland asked students to consider their favorite staff member and what qualities make them the favorite. College media EICs have the unique opportunity to know what traits their future employers are looking for from firsthand experience.

5. Networking and internships are essential

Networking in the world of journalism is a necessity. Copeland stressed collecting business cards and staying active on LinkedIn.

Additionally, keep a portfolio of your work. The hierarchy of writing to show employers, according to Copeland, is self-work, class work, student media and, finally, internships.

Utilize internship opportunities to network and build up your portfolio.