Why young journalists should embrace digital skills early, by Goodness Chibunna

When I began my role as a content editor in 2015 at Legit.ng (formerly Naij.com), I had no idea what was coming. The traditional newsroom roles I’d learnt about in school – reporters, editors, page planners – were all rolled into one. I was expected to source, edit, and publish error-free stories in record time, all by myself, using a WordPress backend I’d never seen before.

The media space I had envisioned was traditional, but I was quickly confronted with a different reality—one where digital skills were essential. It was clear that I had to adapt. So, I threw myself into learning how to use the backend, understanding SEO, and optimising content for an online audience. Little did I know that this crash course in digital skills would shape my entire career as a journalist.

Here are five reasons why I believe young journalists must embrace digital skills early:

1. Adaptability is key

The media world is constantly changing. By picking up digital skills early, you’re training yourself to adapt quickly to new technologies and workflows. This flexibility will serve you well throughout your career.

2. Efficiency is everything

In today’s fast-paced news environment, being able to handle multiple tasks efficiently is crucial. Digital skills allow you to streamline your work, from research to publishing, saving time and energy.

3. Expand your toolkit

Each digital skill you learn adds another tool to your journalistic arsenal. Whether it’s data visualisation, social media management, or video editing, these skills make you a more versatile and valuable team member.

4. Stand out from the crowd

In a competitive job market, digital skills can set you apart. Employers are increasingly looking for journalists who can hit the ground running with various digital platforms and tools.

5. Future-proof your career

As traditional media roles continue to evolve, having a strong digital skill set ensures you’ll always have a place in the industry. It opens up new career paths and opportunities you might not have considered before.

Looking back, learning those digital skills at Legit was one of the best things I did for my career. It gave me confidence and opened doors I wouldn’t have thought were possible.

So, if you’re a young journalist just starting out, don’t wait. Learn those digital skills now—they’re not just useful; they’re essential.

Experiment with different tools, take online courses, and never stop learning. The future of journalism is digital, and by embracing these skills early, you’re not just preparing for that future — you’re helping to shape it.

What digital skills have you found most valuable in your journalistic career? Share your experiences in the comments below.

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