One of the best ways for media and entertainment professionals to stay informed of industry news is to subscribe to media and entertainment publications. There are many publications, trade journals and newsletters available that cover current trends in media and entertainment; but rather than inundate yourself by subscribing to them all, you may want to pick and choose the ones that best meet your business's needs.

Entertainment publications offer a variety of resources and there's a huge selection to choose from, but many are costly. The trick is to get the most information from the fewest resources, thus saving you money and keeping you informed so you don't have to read all day. When deciding which media book, magazine or journal to choose, remember the following:

1. Some media magazines offer free trial subscriptions so you can better determine whether the publication is for you.

2. When subscribing for publications, find out what period your payment covers. Make sure you receive any back issues within the time period you're paying for. Some publications may just begin subscription with the current issue.

3. If possible, subscribe through a publication's website site, rather than a magazine subscription site. You may receive additional tools and resources with your subscription.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Subscribe to entertainment industry publications and receive subscription benefits

Some publications offer additional benefits with subscriptions, such as discounted prices or a second subscription at 50 percent off. With some publications, you have the opportunity to cancel your subscription without payment if you're not satisfied.

I recommend: The Hollywood Reporter discounted offers subscription prices if you subscribe to their printed magazine and online access. Subscribe to Variety in print. Subscriptions to Daily Variety and Weekly Variety include online access to Digital Variety.

Take advantage of an online media and entertainment magazine

E-mags and web publications have come a long way. Online publications may offer advantages that include additional newsletters, blogs and readily available back issues. Internet publications are updated regularly; and if you have any questions, many have online forums for you to access.

I recommend: MediaWeek, published by Neilsen, offers discounts to their print publications when you sign up for online access. Neilsen Business Media also publishes BrandWeek, Editor & Publisher and AdWeek, among other print and online publications, which you can access from the Media Week website. Broadcasting and Cable offers online newsletters, blogs and up-to-date news, along with other online informational resources and print publications.

Join a club or association for free access to articles on the entertainment industry

If you are an industry professional, you may consider becoming a member of an association. Professional associations are dedicated to staying abreast of the latest industry news and trends. As a member, you'll receive access to free publications, as well as other informational resources.

I recommend: The Association of Media & Entertainment Counsel and the Associated Press Managing Editors are both associations that offer online newsletters to members. As a member, you get access to additional industry tools and resources.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check with your local library for media articles and journals. Many offer online access to journals you can view for free.