Though reporters may be on individual assignments, in most cases journalism is a team effort that also involves videographers, editors, news anchors, producers, graphic artists and news directors. This wide range of positions appeals to different people with different skills. For example, news anchors may steal the limelight, but they are usually dependent upon highly professional journalists to prepare them for newscasts. Reporters are often in the field, following fast breaking news, while editors work more regular hours and assemble material for publication or broadcast. Most reporters begin working for small newspapers or broadcasting organizations and then work their way up to larger markets where more professional seasoning is necessary.
Reporters work under constant pressure preparing packages and meeting regular deadlines.
The profession of jourmalism is changing rapidly with new information technologies, but there is expected to be continued demand for the skills invloved in gathering, reporting, and interpreting non-fiction and public affairs information. Also, with the distinction between print and eroding, print journalists may be as likely to handle video as well as still cameras and audio tapes for computers as well as for radio broadcast. This is a very competitive business and salaries will be low for the first few years. Starting positions in small and medium sized markets must be seen as stepping stones to higher positions in larger markets. Small to medium sized newspapers and television stations report an increasing need for entry level journalists, while demand is decreasing for radio news and magazine non-fiction .