From PR to newspapers?

Q: I was a reporter at a daily newspaper with a circulation of about 100,000 for seven years. I also interned there. I left the paper two years ago for a public relations job. I am looking at getting back into journalism. I have applied to some papers but nothing yet. I am looking for some guidance. Here are a few questions:

Will papers shy away from me because I left journalism?

What size papers should I apply to?

I've noticed some papers ask applicants to apply online and copy and paste their resume. But clips and cover letters aren't requested. Should you include clips and a cover letter anyway?

A friend suggested I select several papers I would like to work and send my clips, resume and cover letter to the papers' recruiters. Is that a good idea for me considering I haven't been a reporter for two years?

Thanks,

Trying to get back in the game

A: You will have a harder time advancing your career from public relations than you would have had if you had tried to make a move straight from your old newspaper. Some editors may question your commitment, having gone to "the other side."

However, editors like recovered sinners. Have a strong story together about what you learned about PR and how being away has rekindled your passion for journalism. I've seen that work.

Apply to papers about 90,000 and up. Certainly, you haven't forgotten anything you've learned, and you shouldn't have to start over. There may be a slight setback at your return, but a total restart should be unnecessary, seems unfair and might be unaffordable.

I would add a cover letter when applying on-line because you have a story to tell, but I would not send clips, as it sounds like they're old, anyway.

I wouldn't mail out a lot of clips to recruiters until you know they have active openings.. You might not get much of a response, and that can be discouraging. I would try to get to a journalism conference where you could meet some editors and have some conversations.