What A Senior Editor At Newsweek Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The News Industry
Jenni, a Senior Editor at Newsweek, advises aspiring journalists to develop self-validation, understanding that "someone will always be angry with you," regardless of the work's quality. Success in the field requires adaptability and a constant pursuit of innovative audience engagement strategies, as the methods for reaching audiences are constantly evolving.
Resilience, Overcoming Challenges, Industry Realities, Workplace Challenges, Communication
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jenni Fink
Senior Editor, National News
Newsweek Magazine
University of Arizona, 2013
N/a
Communications
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Creative
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Develop thick skin: Criticism is inevitable, focus on self-validation.
2. Adapt to change: The media landscape is dynamic; constantly seek new ways to engage audiences.
3. Master your craft: Hone skills to remain relevant and successful amidst industry shifts.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
Before I entered the industry, I wish I knew that you're never going to please everyone. Someone will always be angry with you, no matter what you write or how you write it.
Someone will find something wrong. You could write, "Here are five adorable puppies," and someone will tell you that you're a terrible person and cats are better. You cannot do this job and base your success off of other people's validation because you'll never feel fulfilled that way.
You have to have self-validation for what you're doing and believe in the work. For this role specifically, you have to be willing to adapt. You must constantly look for new ways to reach and wow an audience.
If you get stuck in one mode of operating, that could be completely upended the next day. The people who succeed when those changes happen are those who have been looking at a variety of sources and honing their craft to stand the test of time.