Typical Tasks
Arrange interviews with people who can provide information about a story.
Check reference materials, such as books, news files, or public records, to obtain relevant facts.
Determine a published or broadcasted story's emphasis, length, and format, organizing material accordingly.
Discuss issues with editors to establish priorities or positions.
Establish and maintain relationships with individuals who are credible sources of information.
A day in the life
What kind of work is this?
Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Enterprising
Business based Work
What personality traits do you need to succeed?
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Integrity
Initiative
Stress Tolerance
Achievement/Effort
What key skills are needed for this job?
Writing
Active Listening
Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Social Perceptiveness
Expected Knowledge
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Communications and Media
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Common Activities
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
