Gig economy is great tool for student journalists

By Forrest Tucker

Hello, everyone, and welcome to the Young Journalists Podcast, I’m Forrest Tucker. In today’s episode I’m going to be talking about the gig economy and how it is a great tool for student journalists. 

So that we’re all on the same page here, Investopedia says that the gig economy is when “temporary, flexible jobs are commonplace and companies tend toward hiring independent contractors and freelancers instead of full-time employees.”  

I have always been involved in some type of journalism outside of class here at the University of South Carolina. I’ve done everything from writing editorials to working for the student television station to now running my podcast. On a weekly basis I am researching, writing, filming, editing and reporting on camera. However, I have never done any of that for money, but for valuable experience. In college journalism, the gig economy is slightly different. I recommend that journalism majors work jobs for the sake of sharpening their skills and not for payment. Instead of dollars you gain powerful knowledge. Think of this as the “college gig economy,” where you’re independently experiencing different parts of journalism in a flexible manner. Sure, you can still make money, but the craft should come first. 

I want to draw from my own experiences to argue that the gig economy is a useful tool for student journalists because it provides an opportunity for repetitions to improve and for gaining exposure to employers. Also, this may sound silly, but creating your own work in the gig economy is fun and rewarding.  

One of my professors, Greg Brannon, has always said that “reps are everything.” A Carolina Panthers reporter for over 20 years, Brannon has had plenty of practice.  

This practice comes in many forms. Writing editorials for the school paper develops consistency in being concise and employing a well-established argument. Reporting on live broadcasts helps boost skills in reading a TelePrompTer and developing camera presence. Making news packages improves your shooting techniques and editing prowess with Premiere Pro.  

Recording a podcast with a friend can help basic conversation skills needed for interviews and round-table shows. Researching for everything from a football game to a blood drive helps young reporters back up their work with facts from credible sources. Gaining knowledge and confidence in these skills constantly is the name of the game. 

Making connections with potential employers is another advantage of the gig economy. The first step, which you have been doing, is building a portfolio. The next step is to show people. Your best work should always be in a format and place where it is accessible. 

For broadcasters, posting your demo reel to YouTube is a great idea. Do a little advertising by putting the link in your social media profiles as well. Many news reporters use Twitter so don’t be afraid to follow them. Chances are if your reel is in your bio they’ll have a look.  

For multimedia journalists reaching out to newspapers to ask about publishing opportunities is smart. Outlets such as the local daily, or a local alternative weekly like Free Times or the online opinion aggregator Medium are ways to get your work noticed. Being published by a credible outlet develops a personal reputation for good work that others will notice.  

When you’re on the job there are plenty of opportunities to network with professionals as well. While in the press box of Williams-Brice Stadium, I have made connections with local sports reporters and put a face to my name. Networking is a college journalist’s best friend when you’re trying to get hired. 

Last, but not least, fun is the reason I work outside of class. If you truly enjoy journalism seeking work opportunities will not be a chore. There’s no rush of adrenaline that compares to standing on the sidelines of an SEC football game. There’s no happiness that compares to watching your perfectly made package and sharing it. Also, there’s nothing cooler than sitting in a studio talking sports with your good friends too. 

This “college gig economy, has brought me to where I am today. I’m confident in my abilities and eager to improve. What this all boils down to is ambition, motivation and hard work. I believe that the college gig economy can bring those qualities out in every journalist. Just remember that college doesn’t last forever and the gig economy shouldn’t either. The ultimate goal is to get hired.  

That’s all from me here at the Young Journalists Podcast. Until next time, I’m Forrest Tucker. Thanks for listening.