By Lee Clow
12 October 2020 | Story
Jacqui Oatley story has been quite phenomenal and the career she has forged for herself is nothing short of inspiring. The Wolverhampton born broadcaster grew up with aspirations of becoming a footballer but due sustaining an injury, Oatley was forced to abandon her dreams and look elsewhere.
Wanting to stay in sport, Oatley decided she would try and develop a career in journalism. Oatley started from the bottom, first broadcasting on hospital radio, before eventually become the star that she is today.
In a recent interview, Oatley, along with other sports broadcasters, gave their thoughts and advice on breaking into the industry. In the interview, Oatley was quick to highlight the importance of speaking to the right people when first breaking into the journalism industry. Her key point was that if you speak to the right people, good opportunities will come up.
Alongside that, Oatley stated how you will be rewarded if you put in the hard work. Clearly having put in the hard work during her career, Oatley has seen the accolades in the industry having become the first women to commentate on Match of the Day as well as anchor the coverage of Euro 2016 for ITV. Speaking in the interview Oatley said, “It can be very tough at times, but I am so privileged to work in this industry”.
Further along in the interview, Oatley offered her advice on getting contacts, which is a very important factor for a journalist. When growing up, Oatley was not surrounded by any media people and this how she learnt that she would have to make it happen for herself. Speaking directly Oatley said, “My advice would be not to wait for the contacts to come to you, but for you to go and find them yourself”. She continued, “Don’t be afraid to knock on people’s doors or to contact many people as it will only benefit you and you can develop great contacts”
Oatley continues to inspire many young journalists trying to break into the industry. Her advice and her actions is going to be a staple in the future and many will look back at her as one of the true greats in sports journalism.
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