I’m applying for the national and local newspapers and everything in between.

Here’s what to do:

1. Read the paper where you’re applying to work and get a feel for it.

2. Telephone the paper and ask for the name and job title of the person who deals with work experience applications. This is where you will address your application and it will give you bonus points.

3. Send a letter of application (including dates of availability) and a “journalism” CV (one that shows relevant experiences/achievements that will show you’re a good candidate).

4. Include with your CV cuttings of your published work. If you have none write a review of a film/book/tv programme/concert or write a comment piece about a subject that has been running in that newspaper.

Good luck! Maybe I’ll see you on the other side.

PS. While you wait for a response keep busy writing. I like to watch football games and write my own match report and compare it against the one that is in the paper the following morning for tips. At the moment, though, I’m writing a sit-com and you never know it might mean I can skip this tedious stage out!