💻 10 Must-Attend Webinars in January

Hello and welcome to another edition of Inside The Newsroom, journalism’s job board.

One of the best things about online learning is that you can do it from anywhere, on your own schedule. Webinars are essential tools for staying current with skills, learning new tools, and connecting with other journalists — all without leaving your desk.

January is a great month to reset your learning goals and commit to professional development. Whether you want to get better at data visualization, learn about AI in newsrooms, or improve your health reporting, there’s a webinar for that.

Below are 10 webinars happening in January that are well worth your time. If you want access to the full database with more than 150 total opportunities, subscribe below and take advantage of 80% off annual subscriptions ($12/£12 for your first year).

What News Media Will Achieve in 2026

Organization: International News Media Association
Date: January 7, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: Industry predictions and trends for the coming year, with insights from news media leaders.
Why attend: Start the year with a clear picture of where the industry is heading. This kind of strategic thinking helps you plan your own career moves.
Register here

News Journalism Workshop

Organization: News Associates
Date: January 13, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: Fundamentals of news journalism, reporting techniques, and best practices.
Why attend: Whether you’re new to journalism or need a refresher on the basics, this workshop covers the fundamentals that every journalist needs.
Register here

Navigating the Next Phase of AI Content Licensing

Organization: International News Media Association
Date: January 14, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: How news organizations are handling AI content licensing, partnerships, and legal considerations.
Why attend: AI is reshaping how content is created and licensed. Understanding these changes is crucial if you’re working in or thinking about working in digital media.
Register here

Populism’s Challenge to Journalism

Organization: Association for Journalism Education
Date: January 14, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: In-depth examination of how populism is challenging journalism worldwide, including its impact on news quality, public trust, and the work of journalists.
Why attend: This seminar brings together leading academics and practitioners to explore a critical issue affecting journalists at every level, from local newsrooms to national broadcasters.
Register here

Getting Started With Datawrapper

Organization: Datawrapper
Date: January 14, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: Introduction to Datawrapper, a popular tool for creating charts, maps, and data visualizations.
Why attend: Data visualization is an essential skill for modern journalists. Datawrapper is free, easy to use, and produces publication-quality graphics. This webinar will get you started.
Register here

30 Minute Skills: Health Care Reporting 101

Organization: New England First Amendment Coalition
Date: January 15, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: Essential skills for reporting on health care, including how to read studies, talk to medical experts, and avoid common pitfalls.
Why attend: Health reporting is complex and requires specific knowledge. This 30-minute session gives you the basics you need to report accurately on health topics.
Register here

Following the Money in the 2026 Midterms – Resources for Local Journalists

Organization: The National Press Club
Date: January 16, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: Tools and resources for tracking campaign finance, political spending, and money in politics for the 2026 midterm elections.
Why attend: Campaign finance reporting is essential for understanding how politics works. This webinar gives you the tools to do it, especially valuable for local journalists covering elections.
Register here

Legal Rights and Risks for Journalists Covering Immigration Enforcement

Organization: Online News Association
Date: January 22, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: Legal considerations, rights, and safety when reporting on immigration enforcement and border issues.
Why attend: Immigration reporting often involves sensitive situations and legal complexities. Understanding your rights and risks is essential for doing this work safely and effectively.
Register here

How to Pitch High-Profile, National Media

Organization: Institute for Independent Journalists
Date: January 23, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: Strategies for pitching freelance stories to major publications, including what editors want and how to stand out.
Why attend: If you’re freelancing or want to start, pitching is a skill you need to master. This webinar gives you practical advice from people who know what works.
Register here

Datawrapper’s API: A Beginner’s Guide With Python

Organization: Datawrapper
Date: January 28, 2026
Format: Online
What it covers: How to use Datawrapper’s API with Python to automate chart creation and integrate data visualization into your workflow.
Why attend: If you’re already comfortable with Datawrapper and want to level up, learning the API lets you automate repetitive tasks and create more sophisticated workflows.
Register here

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Webinars

Come prepared: If the webinar mentions specific tools or topics, do a little reading ahead of time. You’ll get more out of it if you’re not starting from zero.

Take notes: Keep a document or notebook for key insights, tools, and resources mentioned. You’ll forget details if you don’t write them down.

Ask questions: Most webinars have Q&A sessions. Come with questions prepared. If you’re thinking it, other people probably are too.

Follow up: After the webinar, follow up with speakers or organizers on LinkedIn if you have additional questions. Many are happy to continue the conversation.

Professional development doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. These webinars are mostly free, they’re focused on practical skills, and they fit into your schedule. Pick the ones that align with your goals, block the time, and commit to showing up.