The recent Gannett-Belo merger announcement was definitely an attention getter. Many wonder how in the world it will work, what it will mean for the industry and what does it mean for TV journalism? There are several great articles already tackling some of these issues. (See Dallas Morning news for more on how the deal will work. And this New York Times article explains the financial reasons for the merger)
In this article, we are going to look at what average “Joe TV Journalist” needs to consider. Much of it is common sense but, it bears reminding.
What Big Media Buyouts mean to Journalists:
Fewer options
More opportunities to burn bridges
Mind p’s and q’s
More mergers means fewer options in many cases. Newsroom consolidations are a trend that is even creating enough concern to start a movement. (Check out this map to see how many stations are operating this way.)
This means fewer options in terms of companies for whom you can work. That is significant because this is not a big business anyway. Pick a journalist you know, and with little to no effort you can come up with three names of people connected to that person. A little more effort and you will likely come up with at least ten other names. So think twice if you get a burning desire to tell your ND to “&^%$ off!”
There are more opportunities each day now, to burn bridges. Companies keep human resource files on you. Count on the fact that ND’s across the country from one another can hit a few computer keys or speed dial and get the full scoop on you in a heartbeat. If you hate your situation, gripe in private and quietly move on.
That is all part of minding your p’s and q’s. Keep in mind, sticking it to the “&*^hole” newsroom and walking out or giving a day’s notice will come back to bite you. The chances of it happening are greater than ever with fewer companies controlling more of the jobs. Remember, the fewer broadcasting companies that exist, the bigger the bite. I know a few journalists right now who decided to just walk out (to get a little revenge on “the man!”) and now they are really hurting. You will be labeled. You will raise red flags. You will lose out on top salary options. And yes, you could be black balled all together. It really does happen, especially within station groups. So, if you love being a part of TV news, suck it up. Find a job quietly, and put in two weeks notice. You can do it, your career depends on it.
Bottom line, what this means for “Joe TV Journalist” is that the biz is getting even smaller than it was before. Play nice in the sandbox, and take the high road even when others around you are not. Your reputation will count for even more than in the past. If this trend continues there simply will be fewer options for you to get a second chance.
