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Journalism used to be one of those professions that, like novel-writing or anything in the entertainment industry, meant working very hard to try to break into an industry that might never finally come to fruition. Journalism involves knowing the right people, being ruthless, and being lucky, and, of course, having talent.

The internet, however, has changed this. There is no longer a surplus of writers and not enough publications. On the contrary, with so many new media out there, content is needed more than ever. This is where the citizen journalist comes in.

Not only are there sites such as Helium and others like it who are willing to pay writers for content, but there are a number of other outlets for those looking to write.

Sites such as Craigslist have new job openings posted every day for bloggers and other content generators. Many of these employers are looking for many new writers to generate reviews of restaurants, bars, films, or anything else that the public may want a first-hand opinion on. People taking these jobs need only a good command of the English language and an interesting writing voice. These jobs can be good for breaking into the industry and starting a portfolio.

Of course, creating your own blog is an option. Google is one site which offers ad-placement for blogs, so you can generate income based on click-rates. Most blogs do not generate a main source of income for the blogger, but they can be a good way to get your name out on the web, and a link to your own site is a good thing to provide to a future employer.

For fast cash, there are many contests out there. Submitting something to these contests is a long shot, as there are many applicants and few winners, but the rewards can be upwards of 500 dollars if you win.

The more you write, the more opportunities will come your way. Putting your writing out there, no matter if it is simply a 100-word restaurant review, opens the door for later writing possibilities. It is still difficult to make a living out of writing, but it is getting easier to get noticed, and if you have the same ruthlessness, people skills and talent as journalists from generations before, then you may find a niche online and finally be able to quit your day job.

Learn more about this author, Emily Monaco.
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