The Job Hunt

Please welcome Guest Blogger Christine Roy.

Christine is currently a freelance writer who interned at CJTT FM in Ontario Canada. She has written articles for: Glue Magazine, OttawaTonite.com, BayToday.ca, The Vimy Ridge Project, Métis Nation of Ontario & more. 

Christine is blogging about "Job Hunting in the Media" which unfortunately is what MANY in the media are facing. 


THE JOB HUNT
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Some months ago, I remember hearing about how many reporters had been suddenly laid off at the Ottawa Citizen and the Ottawa Sun. While I felt no small amount of sympathy towards these individuals--some of which I'd met in the media industry--my first thought was, "Crap...the industry is about to get flooded with competition."

I was nearing the end of my job contract at my current location at the time and I was already on the hunt for a new position. Moving wasn't exactly an option for me so knowing that there would be other journalists in my area looking for the same kind of work I wanted really lit up warning signs.

It's been a bit of a struggle ever since.  I haven't managed to secure a position since my contract ended other than a bit of freelance bits here and there but nothing reliable for a proper income.

I have plenty of experience in communications but even that is a competitive industry when you don't have more than four years under your belt. So you do what you can with the skills you have: blog, write, pitch where you can and just keep on looking.

I'm luckier than most and qualified for EI but I'm really looking forward to a salary again. To say I've had cabin fever for a few months isn't a joke.  I am totally ready to work but while I send out my resume to as many outlets as I can, I seldom get any calls and when I do, I'm told I interview well but the position has been filled.

Even my bilingualism doesn't seem to help right now.

The competition is disheartening but I'm far too much an optimist to throw in the towel. I love to write and I want it to show. I'll convince someone soon, I'm sure of it!

I hope...

Christine Roy,  Journalist
christinejroy.wordpress.com/