Shift work is a mainstay of freelance journalism, and the way many newly qualified journalists get their first foot on the job ladder. But for those fresh out of college, it can be a bewildering way to start out. Just how should you go about getting shifts, how can you impress, and what rights do you have once you start casual work?

‘Nothing beats networking, except perhaps nepotism,’says Chris Wheal, freelance journalist and chair of the NUJ‘s Professional Training Committee. ‘You can get work through the contacts you have made at NUJ branch and chapel meetings, through your own work experience and from your college.

‘Cold-calling is incredibly difficult. Use internet forums too to make contacts – I gave some paid shifts to a student who I got to know through The Fleet Street Forum, so it does work.