Starting a career in local TV news is often a crucial stepping stone for journalism students and young professionals aspiring to work on national shows like Good Morning Britain.
Local stations provide invaluable training, exposure, and experience that can help build the skills and confidence needed to succeed on a larger stage.
Working in a local newsroom equips journalists with the essential tools and knowledge that set the foundation for a rewarding career in broadcast journalism, providing a launchpad for roles in high-profile, national broadcasts.
One of the primary benefits of working at a local station is the ability to gain hands-on experience across a variety of roles. In a smaller newsroom, budding journalists often find themselves handling multiple aspects of production—from reporting to editing to scripting and even assisting with camera work.
This immersive experience allows them to develop a comprehensive understanding of newsroom operations and refine their storytelling skills. By taking on these responsibilities, young journalists quickly learn how to produce news segments under tight deadlines and are challenged to think creatively when resources are limited.
This kind of well-rounded training becomes invaluable when moving to a national platform, where a strong foundation in all aspects of production is critical.
Local newsrooms also offer the opportunity to build a distinct on-air presence. National networks look for journalists who can command attention, connect with viewers, and communicate stories clearly and professionally.
Smaller markets often allow young journalists to get on camera more frequently, giving them a chance to develop their ‘on-air persona’ in front of a live audience.
Whether as a reporter, anchor, or weather correspondent, this screen time is essential for refining the delivery, poise, and tone that are vital for success on a larger stage. Many renowned journalists have started in small towns, using their time in local newsrooms to develop their unique voice and style before making the leap to national TV.
Building a strong portfolio is another advantage of working locally. Each story covered, news package produced, and live shot conducted becomes part of a journalist’s personal portfolio. This portfolio, particularly in the form of a demo reel, serves as a powerful tool when applying for national roles.
Journalists who have reported on significant local events, covered a variety of topics, and demonstrated versatility in their on-air work will have a well-rounded reel to showcase their abilities. With a portfolio that highlights range, credibility, and on-camera talent, these journalists can better capture the attention of national news recruiters looking for reliable and polished talent.
Perhaps just as crucial, working in a local newsroom allows journalists to build a network. Relationships with colleagues, editors, and mentors play a significant role in career growth and development.
Many seasoned journalists and producers at local stations have connections in the industry and can provide guidance, introductions, and recommendations. Attending industry events, journalism conferences, and maintaining an active presence on professional platforms like LinkedIn can also open doors. Networking, combined with a strong portfolio and relevant experience, helps to create a reputation within the industry, which can be instrumental when looking to break into a competitive national show like ITV’s GMB.
Beyond technical skills, local newsrooms teach resilience and adaptability. Working in smaller markets, journalists often have to report on challenging stories, navigate unpredictable schedules, and cover everything from breaking news to community features.
This experience is invaluable preparation for the demands of national television, where news cycles are even faster and the pressure is amplified. Journalists learn to handle high-stress situations, stay composed on camera, and maintain ethical standards despite the challenges they face.
These qualities are precisely what producers of national shows seek in their on-air talent, knowing they can rely on them to deliver under pressure.
Finally, gaining experience in local news provides journalists with a deeper understanding of the communities they serve, an invaluable skill that is beneficial even on a national level.
Audiences value authenticity, and journalists with experience in local newsrooms often bring a grounded and relatable approach to their storytelling. This helps them connect with viewers on a larger scale and offer fresh perspectives on issues that resonate nationwide.
In summary, work experience in local TV newsrooms offers invaluable preparation for aspiring national TV journalists.
By honing their storytelling abilities, developing an on-air presence, building a strong portfolio, networking, and gaining resilience, young journalists establish the skills and relationships they need to move from local news to prestigious national platforms.
Many top TV journalists credit their success to the foundation they built in local stations, which served as the training ground for their rise to national fame.