In a rapidly changing media landscape, where professional ethics is highly devalued, a valuable roadmap is needed to navigate the challenges of the digital era and prepare for life beyond the newsroom.
Emphasising adaptability, professionalism, and a proactive approach to career development; to ensure journalists are well-equipped, the Executive Director of Media Career Development Network (MCDN), Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, delivered an insightful lecture to media professionals gathered for the Maiden Annual Press Week of the New Telegraph Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Chapel on Thursday, 14, 2023.
With a focus on “Maximising Social Media for Better Print Media Practice” and “Preparing for Life Outside the Newsroom (Not Journalism),” the Media Career Coach shared his personal experiences and career journey thus far.
Addressing the challenges faced by legacy media organisations, Otufodunrin emphasised that they are no longer competing with traditional rivals, but with anyone armed with a smartphone and and can share content on various platforms. He stressed the importance of understanding that people crave information, regardless of its source, and that journalists must adapt to this reality.
To enhance their online visibility, Otufodunrin urged journalists actively share their work which bears their bylines on their personal social media accounts and repost their organisation’s content. Engaging with others’ content was encouraged, with a caveat to avoid online conflicts, given the importance of maintaining a professional reputation.
“As a journalist, ensure that what you are doing has enough online presence. Use social media functionally, share your stories on your personal social media account and reshare your organisations posts, these are the secrets to being visible online. Engage with other peoples contents but don’t get into rage online because you have a reputation to protect,” he advised.
Highlighting the significance of growing one’s social media presence, the Career Development specialist emphasised that this virtual presence would become the new address where potential employers could find journalists after their newsroom careers. He urged journalists not to leave the realm of social media to newcomers, as it has become an essential tool for modern media professionals.
“Growing your social media presence is very important for your career especially because of life after the newsroom. This will now serve as your new address where people (potential employers) will find you when they are in need of you. If they need an expert on the subject you cover, with your presence online, you will be sought after. So using social media is not an option for a modern day journalist/media professional.
“Ensure proper convergence in your online engagements as a professional journalist who is digital savvy and do not join the bloggers in being unethical in your practice. They will fizzle out, while you have a reputation to protect,” he added..
Preparing for Life Beyond the Newsroom
While journalists have full-time careers to pursue in newsrooms, Otufodunrin noted they must also prepare for post-newsroom years.
“Sooner or later you will need to move on, not from journalism, but from being a full-time journalist due to having to resign for various reasons or being laid off by your employers,” he stated.
His roadmap for preparing for life beyond the newsroom and not journalism included the following essential steps:
- Anticipate Transition: Understand that a transition from full-time journalism will happen sooner or later.
- Financial Planning: Save and invest wisely for the future.
- Specialisation: Become a specialist in your field.
- Continuous Learning: Pursue additional academic and professional qualifications.
- Tech Savviness: Master new media technologies and acquire new skills.
- Network Building: Cultivate a robust professional network.
- Diversify Skills: Explore the application of your skills beyond journalism.
- Digital Presence: Maintain a strong online presence.
- Explore New Avenues: Seek opportunities beyond the media industry.
- Mentorship: Provide support and mentorship to emerging journalists.
A Resounding Impact
While responding to Otufodunrin’s lecture, Daily Editor, New Telegraph, Mrs. Juliet Bumah, noted the profound influence of journalists’ conduct within and outside the newsroom on their overall lives. Bumah cautioned against unethical practices and emphasised the significance of professionalism.
“How journalists behave and perform inside the newsroom significantly affects their lives outside it. Online journalism is highly competitive, with many non-journalists gaining attention. People often mistake these online figures for real journalists, even when discussing journalism. This shift in perception is driven by the visibility of these online personalities”.
NUJ Chairman for Lagos Chapter, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, echoed Otufodunrin’s advice, encouraging journalists to strive for excellence, acquire necessary skills, and elevate their performances.
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