When I was debating on a career in magazines, I read a lot of advice columns from editor-in-chiefs and top fashion editors. One resounding tip stood out to me: if you want a career in magazines, or any career really, you need to be a user. For me that meant, I need to be someone that reads and likes magazines. It seems so simple but it’s true. You can’t possibly have insight or succeed at your job if you are not completely immersed in it. 

For many that means personal research or in-person opportunities. Due to COVID-19, in-person is not necessarily an option this year. A great alternative for the future journalist in you is to gather tips and best practices from the books below that are widely known in the industry. Happy reading!

The Elements of Style by William Strunk and E.B. White

Chances are you’ve heard of this small, but mighty book. Recommended in most English classes, this is your one stop shop for all things journalism. This book will categorically transform your writing.

On Writing by Stephen King

Built for fiction writers, this is a perfect how-to guide mixed with a memoir. You’ll pick up tried-and-trued writing habits from one of the most known authors.

Inside Reporting by Tim Harrower

Packed with over 1,000 writing tips, reporting basics, and story planning, this book is great for  blogging and understanding audience engagement. There is also a fantastic section on column writing. 

All the News That’s Fit to Sell by James Hamilton

This is a fantastic book on the economy theory of news. It sheds light on how news becomes news and the main people that make that decision. 

How To Become A Journalist: The Insider’s Guide To Getting A Career In Journalism by Nick Rennie

Author Nick Rennie has been a journalist for over 20 years and has packed this book with tips, tricks and advice on how to succeed in journalism. Included in the book are templates and guides on how to write features and news stories.