Freelance Reporter
Freelance reporters are self-employed news reporters who are paid on a per-story basis. He or she performs the same tasks as salaried reporters, except he or she is continually looking for outlets that are interested in purchasing their work. Freelance reporters cover all typical news stories such as community news, investigative reports, current events, and assignment reports. These reporters arrange meetings, conduct interviews, research facts, analyze documents, and write and edit a full report for submission to news media outlets.
Freelance reporters are required to hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in journalism or communications. Previous work experience, internships, or newspaper experience is also required.
Other recommended skills include: good computer skills, strong writing skills, language skills (multi-lingual skills in some cases), accuracy, the ability to report facts and be impartial, proper research skills, interviewing skills, and the ability to be flexible and work an irregular schedule. Specialized skills may be required for those who want to pursue a more exact field of reporting.
The typical average salary of an experienced freelance reporter is about $33,470 per year.
Individuals just entering the news field may find earnings to be lower, however with experience reporters will be able to make more prestigious connections and greatly increase their earnings potential.
