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DIMAPUR — Despite job changes, the passion for storytelling has remained constant, serving as the common thread in Jim Wungramyao Kasom's career.
With a B.Sc degree in Zoology from NEHU and an M.A. in Mass Communication from AJK, Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia, Kasom worked as a travel photographer and writer for five years, before switching to the development sector as a Communications Manager for six years, and currently working at Population Services International India (PSI India).
He has also authored Homecoming and Other Stories and is working on his upcoming book titled Cradling Memories of My Land. He once detested the long commute to workplace, but today, he uses that time to jot down anything that crosses his mind; he also writes on weekends. “If we are passionate about something, we will find a way,” he said.
In an exclusive interview with Eastern Mirror, the communications specialist, who enjoys writing poetry and fiction, nurturing houseplants, gardening, and occasional travelling, shared about the role of a communicator, tips to excel in the field of communication, and more.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1] [bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]What is the role of a communications specialist or a communicator?
Every organization needs a communications specialist for both internal and external messaging and engagement. A communicator creates engaging content for social media platforms, websites and internal and external publications. A communication specialist also develops communication strategies, curates brand guidelines to help the organization speak in one voice and oversees press releases and liaising work with the media.
Who according to you should consider studying communications?
Anyone with an interest in language, photography and videography is at an excellent place to start with. A communicator has to be creative with language, photos, and videos, and even have a basic understanding of designs and an eye for detail to be able to see stories and pursue them.
How does one become a communications specialist?
One doesn't necessarily have to pursue professional courses. Still, the profession is so niched that it is almost only possible to break through with the conventional study of journalism and mass communication.
Is internship important for building a career as a communicator, and do you have any advice on finding them?
Definitely, there are limited job openings for freshers. An internship is one of the best ways to get hands-on experience, get the feel of the industry and establish connections. Some colleges have an internship programme, but even if not, finding internships should be easy. Create a resume with a portfolio, contact seniors or acquaintances and express your desire to intern in their organisation. They can pass on your resume and put in a word for you. If you don't know anyone, find the HR's email through the company's website or LinkedIn and write to them. The acceptance rate for internships is relatively high.
What are the typical entry-level positions for communications graduates, and how can they progress in their careers?
That depends on the nature of the industry. In the movie and TV industry, the beginner's role is as a production assistant. At NGOs and corporates, one will start as a Communications Assistant. From then on, they can slowly work their way up to Communications Associate, Communications Officer, Communications Manager, Communications Senior-Manager and Communications Director.
In your opinion, what skills and qualities do employers in the field of communications place the highest value on?
For beginners, basic knowledge, such as writing, editing, photography, videography, designing, graphic designing etc., is crucial. For mid-level and senior-level roles, more importance is place on the ability to strategize, prepare communication plans and see through successfully. The ability to multi-task and do multimedia content is highly desirable, and that's a trend many organizations are moving towards, as employing communicators who are fluent in multimedia format brings down the cost and the need to hire many talents. Apart from these, a communicator should exhibit active listening skills, attention to detail, be proactive and organized and efficiently produce high-quality work.
Could you provide insights into the emerging trends and new career opportunities for communicators with advancement in technology?
The communicator job is becoming a very competitive and keenly contested role. In the development and corporate sector, they are diversifying the communications roles to not just conventional skills like writing and photography but designing, social media management, and liaisoning with agencies and various vendors. One emerging trend is the growth of the AI (artificial intelligence) industry and the role it can play in multiple aspects of communications. So mastering that will be a bonus.
What are the roles that communicators can take on in government, corporate and development sectors, and how does Mass Communication enable this versatility?
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting conducts recruitment exams for journalism and communications pass-outs with five years of experience. Then, we have conventional journalist roles, both in print and television. Corporate and development communications are similar in terms of their roles and responsibilities and the means they use to achieve their target of engaging with internal and external audiences.
Can you share any tips for networking in the communications field?
Nothing attests to your skills and competency better than a good body of work. Look for opportunities to get your work published in reputed journals and magazines. Always have a well written-designed resume when applying for jobs. Make sure you customize your resume using some of the job keywords you are applying for.
What are some of the challenges that communications professionals commonly face, and how can students prepare to overcome them?
The communications profession is very niche. One major setback is that there are few professionals one can talk to or even seek advice from. The communications field is diverse, so choosing the right career path, be it journalism, teaching, corporate and development communications, etc., is critical.
I have learned from my mistakes, and knowing my strengths and weaknesses helps me make better decisions, and that's my advice. Any experience is good, but the right experience will take you quicker to where you want to be.
Why did you choose to shift from a Bachelor of Science degree to Mass Communication, and what advice do you have for others considering such a change?
At graduation, I started writing prose and poetry and wanted to become a print journalist. That's how I stumbled into mass communication. I started preparing for the entrance test at some of the best institutes, such as Jamia and IIMC. The educational system in India is so rigid that it's almost impossible to switch from one academic field to another.
So, to move from B.Sc to Mass Communication was a long stride that involved a lot of learning processes and self-exploration. I learned by trial and mistake, and that's something today's youngsters can avoid. There are a lot more information available online regarding colleges, entrance exams and how to prepare for these exams. In my case, the decision to change the academic area and, ultimately, my profession was easier because I developed a great passion for it, and I learned that I had the skills, too. Passion itself is not enough; one has to have the skills to back up. We can keep this in mind while making career decisions.
RAPID INSIGHTS
Recollections of home
Belonging and longing all in one.
A must-read book
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and Ways of Seeing by John Berger
The intended message in your photographs
I am a storyteller at heart. I try to capture the essence and spirit of the people and their land. The magic in the ordinary.
Read more from Moakala T Aier: Design as a subject and career choice through the eyes of a visual designer
