Q: I currently work as an assistant editor at a major-market alternative weekly. (Translation: I’m a fact-checker).
I have held several full-time jobs and internships since I received my master’s degree in journalism six years ago. I enjoy research, and I’m very good at it. However, I have made no secret of my desire to write full-time. In addition to my research duties, I have written regularly for my paper, even winning my first journalism award 18 months ago.
Although I love where I work, I have decided that juggling what feels like two jobs is too much and have decided to move on in pursuit of a full-time writing position. Here’s my question: Where can I go from here?
As you would expect from a major market, the local newspapers here are very, very highly regarded. Magazine staff writing positions are very scarce here, and I’m not entirely sure I have enough experience to get one. I’m really starting to feel trapped.
What is the next step for someone like me?
Stuck
A: I have taken a look at your writing and it is solid. I understand your desire to concentrate on your writing to fully develop it and how your job can feel like two — or half of one.
You are in what some people call a velvet coffin — comfortable, but without the future you want.
Fortunately, you are getting to do some writing, you have a good education and a good track record. Let’s work with that.
Pull together a selection of your best clips and start applying. Let’s start with the top publication you think you could work at and go then to second- and third-tier choices. It may be you will have to move down market a little to make the transition, but let’s aim high.
Your cover letters should be gems, to back up what your clips demonstrate. As you search seems to be focused on the city where you’re living, let’s make it your goal to get in the door for an interview — even an informational one — with as many places as possible. While out-of-town candidates may have the advantage of a greater focus on writing, you have them on location and knowledge of the local job market, as you’ve been in it for several years.
