US Consulate, MCDN Train Journalists On Career Development

Journalism has been described as a demanding profession where daily deadlines often leave little room for reflection on personal growth and career direction for media practitioners.
This reflection is contained in a report by the Media Career Development Network, MCDN as part of the Journalism Clinic Bi-monthly training session for journalists in Lagos with support from the United States, US Consulate.

MCDN, in a survey conducted recently said many journalists pay little attention to the need to scale up their careers because they are mostly bogged down by their daily work task.

“The initiative, launched in commemoration of the 70th
anniversary of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), offered a free opportunity for journalists to step back, evaluate their career paths, and receive personalised feedback,” MCDN said.

“The check-up process involved completing a comprehensive form designed to capture both achievements and areas needing improvement. Though some participants initially found the process rigorous, the detail provided a strong basis for constructive feedback. The assessment revealed recurring themes: the need for clearer career planning, the importance of
professional branding, gaps in training and exposure, and the value of structured mentoring.

“It also confirmed that while many journalists are passionate and hardworking, they often lack the support systems and resources required to fully thrive in today’s dynamic media environment.
“By documenting the findings in this report, MCDN aims to extend the value of the check-up beyond the participants. The insights are intended to guide journalists who may not have taken part in the exercise and to help media support organisations better understand the areas where interventions are Executive Summary Seventy-five journalists indicated interest in participating in the Check-Up, but only 15 completed the detailed form that served as the foundation for the review in addition with the CVs of other young and older journalists sent to us by those seeking media jobs, mentoring, and counselling.

“While the length of the form was seen by some as demanding, the comprehensiveness allowed MCDN to generate tailored feedback that validated participants’ efforts and pointed to areas of improvement.

“The feedback covered core issues such as the need for clear short- and long-term career goals, more deliberate professional branding through detailed CVs and digital profiles, upgrading of academic qualifications and certifications, and greater use of digital tools. In addition, the exercise highlighted the importance of mentoring, coaching, and membership of professional
associations as part of sustained career growth.

“Overall, the check-up revealed both the strengths and the gaps in the career paths of Nigerian journalists. While many are committed professionals with strong aspirations, several lack structured career planning and often have limited exposure to
resources and opportunities that could accelerate their growth.”

To be able to turn the curve in their career path, the report urged journalists to
join more Professional Networks, such as climate reporting groups, health journalism associations, or global journalism forums as part of deliberate efforts to advance their careers.

They should also embrace Artificial Intelligence, take advantage of available Artificial Intelligence, AI tools and training to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving media landscape.
Also, they can leverage mentorship by using platforms such as the MCDN membership to access mentoring, resources, and career counselling.

Accordingly, journalists who are aspiring to build their career beyond the newsroom, were also urged to renew links with Media Support Organisations, stay connected to media NGOs and training bodies for resources and opportunities.
Journalists should deliberately build expertise in their chosen beats, positioning themselves as thought leaders and consultants, the report said.
Reacting to the initiative, some journalists said they have received a guide on how to further boost their career in the profession.

“This is a super guide, well-detailed and quite inspiring. Thanks sincerely to your esteemed organisation for embarking on this initiative,-Ann Godwin
South-South Bureau Chief, The Guardian said.

“Going through your observations and recommendations, I felt deeply that someone or a group really wants me to be fully developed and have a good voice in the journalism profession.-Blessing Ibunge
of THISDAY said.

Also, Nchetachi Chukwuajah of the Nigerian Tribune said, “Your observations and tailored recommendations for my career growth are well noted.”