Jim, Sports Presenter
How did you become a media presenter?
Having always been very passionate about sport, Jim had wanted to be a sports presenter for as long as he can remember. And so far, he sure hasn't been disappointed! Currently a sports presenter for Channel Seven, Jim says, "I love what I do. It's everything that I had hoped it would be!"
Jim started off his career in journalism writing the death and funeral notices in Queensland newspapers, after which he took up a cadetship with Brisbane's Courier Mail. However, shortly after commencing this cadetship, Jim gained a job in Channel Nine's news sporting department in Sydney, later moving to Nine's Melbourne office. Just prior to the Barcelona Olympics, he made the switch to Channel Seven.
What does a media presenter do?
"It's a very challenging job and every day is so different. I research and write all my own material as well as present it. I love being involved in the day to day news gathering services," says Jim. "We may not be changing the world, but I certainly enjoy informing the viewer of what's going on in sport!"
What are some of the pros and cons of the job?
"My job has afforded me fantastic opportunities to travel. Not only that, but I've been able to go along to some major sporting events, things like the Australian Open, a one-day cricket match, even a top game of footy. And hosting the Sydney Olympics was the highlight of my career. It's once-in-a-lifetime sort of stuff!"
When asked about the downsides to the job, Jim says, "At times you can get that feeling of 'same old, same old', when the work gets a bit repetitive... but you get that with any job really.
"Also, there's a lot more work that goes into sports reporting than what the viewing public might expect: "I think that the public's perception is a little astray when it comes to the hours we put in. It's definitely not the case that we turn up at 4pm and leave at 6.30pm."
What sort of skills and qualities do you need?
As for the personal requirements needed to become a sports presenter and reporter, Jim advises, "You will need passion, persistence and enthusiasm. While a university degree is not a prerequisite, if you think that it will help you develop your skills, go for it. Plus, hands-on experience is always invaluable."
Any tips for getting a job as a media presenter?
To those aspiring media presenters out there, Jim recommends, "Work hard and persist. You will not get anywhere sitting at home on the couch! If you believe in yourself, if you're passionate, you will go places!"
Find out more about a career as a media presenter
Visit the MyFuture website to find more about duties and tasks, work conditions, earnings and required qualifications for a career as a media presenter.
Find out more about this career path at myfuture.edu.au (Note: free registration is required to access the myfuture site).