Although the number of small town and suburban daily and weekly newspapers is expected to increase, the number of daily newspapers continues to decline, leading to fewer opportunities for new reporters. Electronic publishing, such as on the Internet, is not expected to have an adverse affect on employment opportunities, since good reporters will still be needed to write stories. The above wages include union scale Critics, columnists, feature writers, and other specialists usually receive salaries above union scale. Reporters receive time off or are compensated for overtime and for special assignments that require them to work under hazardous or stressful conditions. Stringers are paid according to the size and type of news stories printed.
Schedules depend on the newspaper's deadlines.
Those on evening papers generally start early in the morning and finish in the early afternoon. Typing ability is essential and using computer terminals for word processing is almost always necessary. Bilingual skills are necessary for some assignments. At least some prior work experience on an actual publication is expected. Internships, work on school newspaper or as campus stringers are acceptable.