General reporter

What does a general reporter do? – Tasks and work environment

A general reporter primarily works on monitoring and reporting on current events across various areas of society. Tasks include gathering information, conducting interviews, verifying sources, and writing articles for publication in newspapers, online, or other media outlets. The work often involves tight deadlines, especially during major news events. The environment is characterized by fast-paced deadlines and the need to quickly familiarize oneself with new topics. General reporters can be based in an editorial office or work in the field, and working during inconvenient hours is common.

Salary development over time

The salary for a general reporter has fluctuated slightly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 42 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has increased to 44 800 SEK, representing an increase of about 5.4% from the previous year. This positive trend can partly be explained by an increased demand for qualified journalists and more intense competition for experienced staff within the profession. At the same time, salary levels are influenced by factors such as demand for local journalism and the impact of digitalization on the media industry. Despite some fluctuations, the profession has maintained a relatively stable salary development over time.

General reporter salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 44 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 51,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Highest salary (female): 48,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 269 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 45 200 SEK, women 44 400 SEK (98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a general reporter, a post-secondary education in journalism or media and communication studies is usually required, often at university level. Practical experience from editorial work is highly valued and can sometimes outweigh formal qualifications. Many employers view internships or trainee positions positively, and additional courses in digital journalism can be advantageous. Strong writing skills and good general knowledge are fundamental requirements.

• Formal degree: Journalism, university/college (3 years)
• Courses/certifications: Digital journalism, research, media ethics
• Internships: Editorial internships or trainee programs are recommended
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish language skills in speaking and writing, general knowledge
• Tips: Self-study and a portfolio with work samples are valuable

Common benefits and compensations

General reporters are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Some employers may also provide professional development through internal training, press cards, and remote work options. Compensation for inconvenient working hours and on-call duties may be provided for work outside regular office hours.

Competition and challenges

The profession of a general reporter is competitive, especially in larger cities where many seek careers in media. Digitalization has changed the labor market and increased demands for multi-skilling, such as editing web content and maintaining a presence on social media. At the same time, economic uncertainties in the industry can affect job security. Keeping up with new working methods and technological tools is an ongoing challenge. Flexibility and adaptability are essential for success in the profession.

Tips for aspiring general reporters

To succeed as a general reporter, it is good to be curious and genuinely interested in the world around you, making it easier to find interesting angles and ask the right questions. A structured work methodology helps when the pace is high and multiple assignments need to be handled simultaneously. Being communicative and attentive aids during interviews and collaborations with colleagues or sources. Building a broad portfolio of work samples and practical experience is also valuable, as employers often look for this. The ability to handle stress and quickly adapt to new situations is central, as is continuously developing your writing and digital skills. Engagement and perseverance are qualities often associated with those who succeed in the profession.

Key facts about general reporters

• Education level: Post-secondary education, often in journalism (3 years or more)
• Work environment: Editorial office or field-based, often with varying hours
• Typical employment: Permanent employment, but temporary and project-based roles also occur
• Demand: 620 job openings within the journalism profession and related fields
• Special skills: Digital journalism and research

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a general reporter, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as news editor, editor-in-chief, or specialized reporter within a specific field. Other career paths include communication officer or press officer within organizations and companies. The forecast from the Employment Service does not provide an exact assessment for general reporters specifically, but currently there are 620 available positions within the journalism and related fields. The industry is undergoing change, especially due to digitalization and shifting media habits, offering both challenges and opportunities for adaptable and development-oriented individuals.

Frequently asked questions about general reporters

• What does a general reporter earn?
  - The average salary is 44 800 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 269 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 45 200 SEK and women 44 400 SEK, which means women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a general reporter?
  - Usually, post-secondary education in journalism or media and communication studies is required.
• What are the main challenges in the profession?
  - Competition, tight deadlines, and demands for digital skills are some of the most common challenges.
• What are the job prospects for general reporters?
  - The forecast is uncertain, but currently there are 620 job openings in journalism and related fields.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a general reporter?
  - The highest salary is 51,000 SEK (male), 48,500 SEK (female), and the lowest is 43,900 SEK.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible hours, and remote work possibilities.