7 ways to break into the new media industry

Here are some tips to carve your own identity in the field of sports journalism.

The internet offers unprecedented possibilities to follow sports from all over the world, thus making it easier to discover upcoming talents across the globe. Perhaps more importantly, through the internet, women in sport are becoming more visible in the “mainstream” sphere of sports fandom. Ash Hashim, founder of Futbolita, which is a digital news media outletlists out some of the best ways on how to stand out from the ordinary crowd and break into the world of new media. 

“There is a lot of stress. I chased stories and deadlines and ate burgers while waiting for buses when I was younger, but now, I have different responsibilities while running Futbolita" - Ash Hashim

Taking a uniquely feminine approach in producing content and stories, Ash is also popularly known as the 'Female voice of football' for empowering women in the sport through activations and charities. From being a sports journalist to gaining an agent's license, Ash has since worked on several partnerships, player representations, and transfers. She explains her decision on titling herself as the 'Female voice of football' as setting a challenge to herself and to elevate her level. Here are some of Ash’s tips on how to be sui generis in the media industry:

Mental fortitude, perseverance and character:

"To face the pressures in the media industry, you need mental fortitude", Ash revealed. Taking some of the athletes she's worked with as an inspiration, she said "think like an athlete, act as an athlete, breathe like an athlete, and eat like an athlete. This is the elite mentality that I am inspired by my athletes and this gives me grit."

Implementing a unique work culture:

Digital and social media have revolutionized the routine in breaking news. It includes following a "tweet-online-print" formula, where early news is reported on platforms such as Twitter and Instagram, perhaps replacing the style of note-making. While online influencers have emerged as fierce competitors to journalists, Ash suggests that building social media 'clout' or influence is a positive way to embrace the change in digital media culture.

Journalism still has a future:

Most players might not be easy to access, nor are they good writers. Hence journalists here are relevantand play a key role in capturing the story and personality of the player. "Some players are introverts, or might have PR agencies to support their stories," Ash said. Pointing towards the likes of former Liverpool footballer Daniel Sturridge, she doubts many articles would have had the similar impact if the players themselves expressed it. "The art of reporting, interviewing, and writing professionally must be cultivated, and cannot be carried out on social media," she said.

It is important to package content and deliver it to the style of the consumers:

Another interesting impact on sports is new media changing the way audiences consume news or sports. There has been a rise in streaming services and media platforms that bypass traditional outlets to broadcast their games, and break news. Rui Pedro Braz, a football analyst and journalist from Portugal insists that journalists and media outlets need to keep an open mind as the needs and demands of the consumers are everchanging. This changing landscape makes it difficult for journalists to gain access to athletes and sports bodies. The profession has a future, although it must change to ensure that it thrives.

It is ok to step out of an ordinary, one-dimensional approach:

"It is important to carve your own identity. With my passion and craze for Latin American football, I was able to channel that energy to my work, and personality. Hence the name Futbolita" Ash explained. Media companies have embraced the mantra of digital transformation, and we can see a rise in former professional players and coaches taking to the media field, either as sports commentators or analysts. 

Any extra background credibility brings value to the industry:

Adding former professionals of the game to the media industry is a challenge is difficult to train them as journalists, but their credibility of being in the game has a major influence on the media industry. Ash explained: "Adding former footballer Jermaine Jenas, a controversial figure is good for television as he doesn't censor his words and says what is on his mind. Former players such as Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher are great at sharing the culture of the club, and that adds color to the program".

Emphasize on character development:

While there is a risk of job opportunities for new entrants, Ash is positive about the outcomes: "I focus on players' development and ensure they are mentally ready for the challenges. And when it comes to Futbolita, I stick to Futbolita's DNA which is emphasize on character development," she said. This is one way to beat the stigma around sports journalism and the double bind.

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