Networking
Networking is essential to the work of an independent journalist. It is how you meet fellow journalists with whom you can trade advice and support and link up with editors who can assign you stories. Learn how to network at conferences, set up a local writers’ group and find organizations to help you make connections.
And consider joining AHCJ’s Lunch and Learns, where freelancer members chat about a designated topic over Zoom every third Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. ET.
Registration is required for Lunch and Learns and is only available to current freelance AHCJ members.
The discussions are not recorded, but you can find summaries of key takeaways here.
Please note: You only need to register one time to be automatically registered for all Lunch and Learns. Not sure if you’ve already registered? Try searching your email for “AHCJ Lunch & Learn Confirmation.”
Jump to: Upcoming Lunch and Learns
Tips & Advice
From staff reporter to independent journalist: How to make the switch
In this interview, independent journalist Anna Medaris discusses her approach to launching her freelancing career and offers tips to other journalists who may be thinking of making the same transition.
Tips for finding and keeping accountability partners
An accountability partner can help with workplace isolation. This tip sheet provides pointers for creating, structuring and maintaining an accountability partnership.
8 ways to land story assignments by attending health journalism conferences
Besides the great learning opportunities offered at health journalism conferences, there are multiple ways to make contacts, glean story ideas and land assignments. Here are some that have worked for me and other freelance writers I know.
Two writers offer tips for setting up a local writers’ group
Two independent writers discuss how their Washington, D.C., writers’ group works, how it has benefited them and offer tips for freelancers looking to start a local group.
Journalism organizations that offer networking, training and more
Here is a list of other journalism organizations that AHCJ members might want to join or follow. They offer an assortment of training, networking, educational opportunities and job listings
Upcoming Lunch and Learns
Lunch and learns are on hold for the summer and will resume in September.
Lunch and Learn Summaries
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Signs you’re dangerously overwhelmed as a freelancer — and what to do about it
During November’s Lunch and Learn, freelancers discussed their mental health challenges and shared resources to help.
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5 tips for maximizing AI as a freelance journalist
During October’s Lunch & Learn, freelancers revealed how ethical use of AI has supercharged their careers.
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Freelance journalists share their financial challenges and potential solutions
At September’s Lunch and Learn, AHCJ freelance members talked candidly about how they make their finances work in an increasingly…
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Freelance contracts: What to look for and how to negotiate
During May’s Lunch and Learn, AHCJ’s freelance members learned why it’s critical to understand what you’re agreeing to in a…
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3 common freelance conundrums — and how to handle them
During April’s Lunch and Learn, freelance journalists advised one another on how to work through their current challenges.
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March Lunch and Learn: Pitching to your ideal publication
Here’s a summary of what some AHCJ freelance members found works — and doesn’t — when pitching to your ideal…
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January Lunch and Learn: Tools and tips to meet your goals
During January’s Lunch and Learn, AHCJ’s freelance members focused on practical, tactical tools that make their lives easier.
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