Ask the Recruiter

Q. I'm writing with some sad news.

After nearly three years in the newspaper industry, my newsroom cut several positions -- including mine. I wasn't expecting to be laid off because I am young, productive, relatively inexpensive and well-versed in blogging and video. But the newsroom seems to be concentrating on a metro-centric product. (I worked in features.)

I've been meeting with many possible employers, but my best bets are with public relations firms. For years, my colleagues dubbed the PR industry "the dark side," stressing that people who switched over could never work as journalists again. Well, that was then. What's the prevailing wisdom now? Certainly, there is clemency during these economic times ... right? If I keep freelancing while working at a PR firm, will I be able to re-enter the industry I love?

Successful But Laid Off

A. I am sad about what happened to you. I think a lot these days about all the people -- new and experienced -- who are losing jobs they love and do well. There is a certain kind of pain, though, for those who get pushed out when they are just getting on track.

Your plan does not sound like a good one to me, and I'll explain why.

You lost your job because the business changed, not because you did anything wrong. So, continuing to do what you were doing will not solve this problem. You have to take stock of where journalism is going, anticipate where it will be and head it off at the pass. Is this metro-centric trend confined to your old newspaper, or is it more widespread than that? Will the demand for feature writers grow or shrink? And will freelancing leave you better prepared than others?

You need to plan for a more radical change in your journalism. For starters, open your options beyond just newspapers. Look for content areas and subjects that you see media displaying most prominently. And advance your digital skills in gathering and disseminating news.

There will be clemency for people who lose their jobs, but only for the ones who reinvent themselves for new times.

Good luck. My heart goes out to you and every other young journalist in your position.

Coming Wednesday: After a late start and some job hopping, he now hopes to find a professional home.