Being a Television Reporter

Mary Heap is a TV reporter for Anglia TV. In this interview, she says how she got into television news and gives advice to others who would like to follow in her footsteps.

What does a television reporter do?

The main role of a TV reporter is to present the news in a convenient format to the viewers. In the morning I am given a story to chase by my news editor. I research the topic and then set up the interviews. I'll then go out with a cameraman to film the material that's needed to compile the report. When that's done, we both come back to the office and I'll write a script. The cameraman will then edit the piece with me for the main Anglia News programme at six o'clock. I may also have to present the report as a part of a live broadcast on location.

What's the best thing about working as a television reporter?

Firstly, no two days are ever the same! One day you could be reporting on a murder trial, the next you could be filming the Queen! Secondly, if you're nosy, then being a TV reporter will suit you. It's interesting to get access to things before the general public, and then to be the first one to tell them. Lastly, you're on TV!! It's great!

What's the worst or hardest thing about the job?

For me, the worst thing is having to do “door knocks”. This could be when someone has died in an accident or has been murdered, and the reporter is sent to knock on relatives' doors to get an interview. I think it's the worst part of the job.

What skills and personality traits do you need to be a successful TV reporter?

You have to be thick-skinned and be able to react quickly to breaking stories. If you have a good grounding in journalism, it will be helpful. It's also important to look smart on screen.

How did you get into the industry?

My first experience in broadcasting was at University. I started working at the student radio station and I liked it so much that I decided to try and get a job in the industry. I applied for a postgraduate NCTJ (National Council for the Training of Journalists) course at the London College of Printing. I was lucky enough to get a place and spent a year in London getting some training in broadcast journalism. In my holidays I spent a lot of my time working for free for various radio stations, both BBC and commercial. This paid off – BBC Radio Leeds offered me a contract when I finished my postgraduate course. I spent three months there, and then moved to Manchester's Piccadilly Radio. I moved to Meridian Television in 2000 as a production journalist. Then I got a TV reporter's job at Anglia Television in Cambridge, and haven't looked back since!

How would you advise people to prepare themselves for a career in TV journalism?

• Get an NCTJ qualification – in my experience, many broadcasting companies require it.

• Get some training in radio/newspapers/news agency first.

• It's very competitive, so the more experience you have, the better.

• Be prepared to deal with failures, but don't give up.

• Expect to work long hours – anywhere at any time of day or night!

• Finally, get a warm coat! It's essential for those hours spent waiting outside various buildings for something to happen!