Nelson Lewis, VP of Newsvesting, on Myths About a Media Career

To some people, a career in media can look like a ticket into all of the award shows and exclusive after parties. To others, it’s a start to a long career doing something they love. The media landscape is constantly changing and it changes how things are done or how certain issues are handled. Whether you are just starting out your career or looking to make the next step, the following myths can help diminish some of the things you’ve heard.

Myth 1: College does not determine how successful you will be
Your future career is not determined by the college or university you attend. Your success throughout your college years is ultimately about you, your drive and your willingness to learn. Attending a top university does not automatically make you better or more qualified than someone who is attending a small rural university or college.

Myth 2: You should hold out for the perfect job
False! If you are hearing this from someone, ignore it! You should be working to get your foot in the door at a good company and working your way up, or you should be taking jobs in your field that will allow you to gain experience. It’s more important to work for the right company instead of having the perfect job. Working for a reputable company helps to give you instant credibility and will provide you with career opportunities internally. In the vast landscape of the media world, your next job could come from the company you are already at.

Myth 3: It’s all about who you know
While it helps to know people throughout the industry, that does not always mean that they will be the people to help you land your next job. Let your accomplishments and skills be the thing that helps you advance. Associating yourself with the wrong individual could hurt your chances of advancing at your current job.

Myth 4: You’ve got nothing to offer but a lot to learn
While you should soak up as much information as humanly possible when starting a career in media, it’s also important that you share information or new ways to do things with the people you work with. This is vitally important if the company you are working for is trying to engage new audiences to remain current. Sharing ideas could lead to the next big break at your job but also in your career.

About Nelson Lewis

Nelson Lewis is a seasoned media professional based in Savannah, GA. A conservative and on occasion provocative force in politically-oriented media strategy, he has worked on behalf of FOX News, Her Golf Network, and the Travel Channel. Currently, Nelson Lewis appears as a recurring figure in Bravo's Savannah-based reality television show, Southern Charm Savannah.

This article was originally published on NelsonLewis.org.