Get the Name Right: Experiences in Writing for Newspapers

Breaking into newspapers is one thing often undervalued in the freelance writing market. I am unsure why this is, but it seems people think the real money is in the major magazines or trade journals. Perhaps the thought of that $1,000 check from Writer's Digest sounds better than getting a check for $50 to $100 or less from your local paper.

In my experiences as a writer for newspapers, it's often forgotten that this is where many top writers began their careers-thought not all. Hemingway started out as a newspaper writer, as did Twain and John O'Hara, and they all did this before they went to writing short stories and novels on a regular basis.

I learned more from my experience as a newspaper writer than at any other job. I've done everything from answering phones, writing up sports box scores, to writing about local plays and musical events. What I can say is, freelancing for papers is a market that should be looked at, but it can be hard to make living at it. A freelance newspaper article can lead to a steady day job, as it has done for hundreds of writers including me. The paper will always look to someone with experience in writing for them first instead of the person who has no clips and several years as a cashier.

As in the freelance career, a newspaper writer can make the big bucks if they stick with it. Early on, I've learned, the checks won't amount to much, but they add up to being as profitable as some of the more successful freelance writers. A college paper-where I work-will pay you less than a major paper of course, but working at a smaller paper often leads into more work.

I learned a few of the basics of any form of writing while working for the sports section of a local paper. I always asked a lot of questions to anyone I thought had answers. I heard the phrase "Get the name spelled right" from just about every writer or editor there; there is nothing worse to newspaper editors than spelling an important name wrong.

I also learned that some papers are likely to be around for a while. Even with the advent of the internet print publications like The New York Times or Detroit Free Press still earn a profit.

Learning the basics for any form of writing is important. Newspapers need quality opinions and color stories, but they also need a good understanding of things like politics and crime.

I never attended a single journalism class, and I think I learned more by working for papers than I would taking a journalism course. As in any field, getting your hands wet fast opens up different doors.

The next time you think your freelance career is in shambles, or your not getting enough money, consider working for your local papers. You would be surprised how many just might offer you a job or an assignment.