Journalist

Journalists create content for both traditional Media (books, magazines) and Social Media.

Journalist Job Description

Attend reporter interviews and Media events.

Develop stories on lifestyle and interesting topics.

Write comprehensive and truthful articles according to the publication style and strict deadlines.

Research topics that generate interest from selected audiences.

Work with the news team, Photographers, and Editors on publication materials.

Monitoring analytics and adjusting strategies as needed to optimise results.

Note

Knowing a second language will be helpful! English is commonly used, but in Singapore, a second language is especially useful when your newsmaker speaks that language.

A day in the life

Journalist

Contracy to belief, Journalists try to keep it clear and simple when writing articles and reports. Discover facts like this from Janice, a TODAY Journalist.

What you should know about Journalist jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

Journalism is 20% writing, 80% talking to people, legwork, and earning newsmakers’ trust to share stories.

Key of advice

It's important to be quick on your feet, you never know when you will have to cover an important and time-sensitive story!

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
A bachelor's degree in either Journalism or Communications is preferred.

Good grammar and rich vocabulary are important. Start writing - practice makes perfect!

Research the type of Journalism you want to go into, be it Broadcast Journalism or Photojournalism.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Journalist career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Oral skills

Crucial for interviews and storytelling for clear, engaging communication with sources and audiences.

Written skills

Has the ability to write clearly and compellingly across formats like reports, articles, or digital content.

Good Command of Languages

Journalists need English and local language skills for accurate, diverse reporting.

Soft Skills

Collaboration

Journalists must collaborate, blending perspectives for comprehensive stories.

Perseverance

Journalists need persistence to uncover the truth despite obstacles.

Communication

Engage deeply, listen, and empathise to ensure Journalism is accurate, balanced, and impactful.

“The purpose of being a Journalist is to tell the stories of the underdogs in the society.”

Janice, Journalist‎

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Do Journalists need to be strong in their writing skills?

Yes, speed and accuracy are important in Journalism. It will be problematic if Editors and Supervisors have to edit their work to ensure it is error-free. That process is not ideal as it reduces efficiency.
How do Journalists ensure their work is accurate and factual?

Journalists can conduct primary and secondary research to ensure that their work is accurate and factual. This can include conducting interviews or surveys directly, or relying on published research such as government reports, research papers or books. Anonymous sources don't offer the same credibility as named ones so Journalists need to always ensure the credibility of their sources.
What are some tips for those aspiring to be Journalists?

Journalists must always maintain an open mind, as it is unpredictable when random trivia or knowledge might prove useful for a piece. Reading widely is also crucial, as it exposes them to a diverse range of experiences and schools of thought.
What type of publication materials do Journalists work on?

Journalists work on various types of publication materials, including News Articles, Feature Articles, Opinions and Editorials, Investigative Reports, Press Releases as well as Interviews.
What do Journalists have to consider when writing news?

Journalists need to ensure that the information they include in their articles is accurate and factually correct. News writing should also be unbiased and objective.