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1/ I'm really looking forward to chatting to the @UlsterJournos on Thursday about the glitz and glam of the freelance life. Ahead of that, I have a little advice for them navigating life as a young journalist during this global pandemic.
2/ Global situation can feel overwhelming, news moving faster than you can write it, unpredictable, it can be frightening, the task may seem mammoth. All these things can also describe a newsroom on an ordinary, non-Corona day. Remain calm, get stuck in and keep moving forward.
3/ Adapt and thrive. Covering news is never a walk in the park, during a global pandemic or not. Obstacles often put in your way, things don't go to plan, sources pull out, stories fall down. It's how you react to this, navigate around them, still get the story done that matters.
4/ Lean into your tech. You can't get in front of people right now, so tap into your technology. Doing radio? Send questions, have people record their response/quote and send you the MP3, same with video, conduct phone interviews, be innovative. We'll be back together again soon.
The news agenda at the moment is being dominated by one big story, that doesn't mean you can't find a thousand different local angles. Seek out the stories of strong community spirit, the heroes working behind the scenes, those who are making a difference every day.
Be resilient. The way we are all working has changed beyond recognition. Sources and press offices are difficult to contact as they too settle in to working from home. Answers will be harder to get. Persevere, tap into social media, seek out mobile numbers, ask favours of others
Hang tough. In your journalistic career you will be met with many, many tough stories, difficult people, challenging environments. Use this unprecedented time to learn and grow as a young journalist. Never give up.
This will make you stronger. People are forged from challenges they overcome. You are starting off your career in most difficult and dire periods in world history. You will adapt, survive, learn skills now you might never have had to. And you will be a better journalist for it
You can follow @LeonaONeill1.
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