Learn from Lehrer: Be realistic with assigning editors and bosses about what you can accomplish in a given amount of time so that you don’t feel pressured to slip in an unchecked fact or quote as you’re rushing to meet an unrealistic deadline. Don’t pitch ideas that are way-out-there and hard to back up with actual reporting. And learn from Shoals: Sometimes this industry is too demanding, and you’ll need to bow out into PR for awhile. One of the great things about this era of journalism is that nobody stays with one publication or in one role for too long. Things are always changing, and if your current job isn’t meeting your needs, you can probably find one that’s a better fit. Still, be prepared to maintain your Internet presence. And deal with some instability in the short term.

Can you please describe how an editor feels when yet ANOTHER writer misuses the word “literally”? —an editor literally named Julie

In need of some #realtalk? Email your questions, conundrums, and requests to editorrealtalk@gmail.com.

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