Convention Networking Tips From Our Investigative Reporting Interns

Every year, the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) national convention provides attendees workshops, networking opportunities, and memories through several days of events. Like many other conventions, it’s something to plan and prepare for in advance to ensure time is well spent. For our interns, the NABJ convention can help further their careers! The Society sponsors a number of investigative interns to attend the convention. Here are their tips and takeaways for having a successful convention experience from this year.

Kennedy Sessions on what to expect at NABJ

*Kennedy attended the Salute to Excellence Awards gala.*

A reunion

“NABJ always feels like a homecoming for Black journalists. Reuniting with mentors, professors, editors, and friends who have guided and encouraged me throughout my career is truly the best part.”

Relevant workshops

“One highlight was a Wall Street Journal panel on pitching stories and using AI tools in reporting, an especially timely discussion as newsrooms adapt to new technologies and story forms.”

A celebration

“This year’s convention ended on a high note. I received two awards for my 2024 election coverage in the categories for Best Commentary Podcast and Best Newscast.”

Anticipation for the next year

“I am deeply grateful to the Ida B. Wells Society for making opportunities like this possible for young journalists. I am already looking forward to doing it all again next year in Atlanta!”

Leah Mallory shares tips on easing the stress by coming prepared

*When she wasn’t attending workshops herself, Leah moderated one on Mastering Newsletters: How to Build, Grow and Monetize your Audience!*

Bring copies of your resume if you plan to attend the career fair. Consider including a QR code that links to your porfolio on your resume. Have your reel or clips ready to show.

Download Blinq! This virtual business card app takes the place of physical ones. People can scan a QR code on your phone and save your info.

Push yourself to network with new people.

Keyla Holmes suggests attending workshops that interest you

“One of my favorite sessions was about Black women’s empowerment in nonprofit newsrooms … This was an especially important session for me because I think I’d like to work in nonprofit newsrooms post-grad. I believe in the mission of accessible information and storytelling.”

“I attended two investigative sessions. One about how to avoid getting sued, and the other was a panel of five women talking about their experiences in investigative reporting. My biggest take away from both sessions is that investigative reporting is often collaborative. There were also some tips about how to approach daily investigative stories, such as how regularly filing public records requests generates stories.”

Our program manager, Arlette Hawkins, encourages planning ahead and having fun.

Arlette took advantage of the free headshot booth in the career fair.

Decide as early as possible if you want to attend the convention.

Usually registration fees are cheaper during the initial launch, and become more expensive following certain deadlines. Planning early also allows you time to arrange your schedule should PTO need to be requested.

Follow the organization’s social media and subscribe to their email newsletters.

Ensure you don’t miss anything by having them on your radar! Some programs may require an RSVP that you don’t want to miss.

Plan your days.

Most conferences release the schedule in advance. Take some time to review it and determine what workshops you’d like to attend, and which employers you’d like to connect with.

Give yourself grace.

Conferences like NABJ are HUGE. You won’t make it to everything, but that’s OK. Remember to have fun and be in the moment.