Network as much as possible

There are countless opportunities throughout the year to meet journalists, editors and PRs in the travel industry, from roadshows such as the World Travel Market to events including the Travel Media Awards. “Make as many connections and contacts as you possibly can,” says Lisa Minot, who has been head of travel at The Sun for over 30 years. Anna Catchpole, senior PR manager at Virgin Atlantic, agrees. “Network and maintain your contacts! The travel industry is such a small world, and your work friends and family are really important.”

Rachel O’Reilly, director of communications at Kuoni, adds: “Generate your own ideas and never be afraid to have a go at pitching them to media you’re inspired by. Get to know the right contacts and connect with them on social media; like and share their posts so you get noticed.”

Be open to new opportunities

It’s normal to feel nervous about getting started in a new industry and putting yourself out there. Our partners think being open to various pathways is the key to a successful career in travel media. “I’d tell my younger self to be open to all opportunities and not to be afraid of trying new things outside of my comfort zone,” says Maria Pieri, editorial director and chief operating officer at APL Media.

Chloe Berman, head of PR and communications EMEA at Intrepid Travel, adds: “Keep an open mind! There’s a broad range of roles within travel media and PR, so don’t limit yourself to one path — be open to different opportunities.”

Stay inspired and inquisitive

“Go out and meet people, go to events, travel for yourself, read and have your own hobbies and passions,” says Andy Morris, editor of easyJet Traveller magazine, which is produced by Ink Global. “You’ll be a better and happier journalist with far more inspired ideas than one who simply looks at a screen all day.”

It’s not only our journalism partners who suggested this to their younger selves. Amy Skelding, managing partner at FINN Partners, says: “Stay curious. If you’re interested, then follow your curiosity and you’ll often find interesting nuggets of information.”

Demonstrate passion for your work

“The worst mistake you could make in an interview for a travel media job would be to say you want the job because you ‘love travel’. Love media/journalism first — then travel,” advises Daniel Pearce, chief executive at TTG Media.

Lauren Khawam, senior communications manager at easyJet holidays, adds: “Stay informed and connected by constantly reading everything you can get your hands on about travel — this will help you keep up with trends, emerging destinations and news.”

Read (and research) the stories you want to write

The TMA Step Up scheme offers the chance to contribute to leading publications including TTG, Metro, The Sun and titles produced by Ink Global (easyJet Traveller, Selamta, Business Traveller) and APL Media (National Geographic Traveller (UK), Living360 and more). Alice Murphy, travel editor at Metro, has a suggestion for all aspiring travel media professionals: “Read the reporting and features of at least one seasoned travel writer every day. My all-time favourite is Jada Yuan. If you travel frequently, and you should, explore each destination through a critical lens. Write about the pros and cons, then decide on the first thing you’d tell your friends about the place — that should be the angle you pitch.”

Keep the advice of established and successful innovators within the travel industry in mind as you build your career in travel journalism and PR. Follow TMA Step Up on Instagram for more top tips and updates on the scheme.