An email came in the other day from someone who wanted professional coaching in achieving her dream of becoming a "television personality," (her words, not mine), with barely a mention of journalism or reporting.
I tried to politely say, "I have no interest in helping someone become a star." That's not my goal as a coach. My goal is to make sure you are thinking about your choices, that you are positioning yourself for a scalable, long-term career and you are realistic about your chances. And, if you get knocked down, can I help you stand right back up?
I suggested some questions to consider:
1. How is she different from the untold thousands that want to be a television personality today?
2. What is she doing now to learn the craft of journalism and understand writing, reporting, editing and producing?
3. Is she willing to start her career in small market America where she may be the only person of color and/or the only person under 30? This is a very important question.
I'm not interested in developing the next generation of talking heads. But, if you have an idea and you want to own it, let's talk.
*Chantal de la Rionda edits this blog
