Journalist Mock Interview

Practice 30 Journalist interview questions covering breaking news, source ethics, and deadline pressure.

Question 6 of 30

Would you rather write a story that laid down the facts, or one that entertained an audience?

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Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.

"I love entertainment writing, and will always lean towards stories that incorporate humor and personality. People most often remember a story that makes them laugh, and these pieces are more likely to be shared on social media. With that said, I will readily write unbiased and factual stories related to the news, politics, the environment, and social issues."

Rachelle Enns

Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.

The interviewer is looking for a better idea on the type of writing, research, and journalism work you like to do. Perhaps you want to write factual, unbiased pieces related to current events. Or, maybe you prefer to write about the entertainment industry, pop culture, or other lighthearted pieces where you can better incorporate your personality.

Whichever style of writing you prefer, be sure to show the interviewer that you have enthusiasm for your work. Avoid pigeonholing yourself into just one type of writing by mentioning that your writing style is flexible and diverse.

Rachelle Enns

Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.

"I love a good investigative story that lays out facts, timeline, and stirs up a bit of mystery. With that said, I do love to entertain and am skilled when it comes to writing interest pieces based on the entertainment industry. My writing style is diverse, and my interests include a broad range of topics."

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Jaymie

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30Journalist Interview Questions & Answers

1.Rate for me your knowledge of social media. In which platforms are you the strongest?

2.What issue, currently on the political agenda, interests you the most right now?

3.Tell me about the last book you read and what your biggest takeaway was from the experience.

4.Which topics interest you the most, when it comes to reading, writing, and research?

5.How important is it to exercise impartial narrative in your writing?

Journalist Mock Interview

Would you rather write a story that laid down the facts, or one that entertained an audience?

30Journalist Interview Questions & Answers

1.Rate for me your knowledge of social media. In which platforms are you the strongest?

2.What issue, currently on the political agenda, interests you the most right now?

3.Tell me about the last book you read and what your biggest takeaway was from the experience.

4.Which topics interest you the most, when it comes to reading, writing, and research?

5.How important is it to exercise impartial narrative in your writing?

6.Would you rather write a story that laid down the facts, or one that entertained an audience?

7.Are you comfortable interviewing people? Tell me about your exposure to one-on-one interviews.

8.Would you be hesitant to ask potentially uncomfortable questions?

9.Would you take on a story that could tarnish the reputation of another?

10.How do you feel about recent steps towards the regulation of social media?

11.Do you have aspirations to work for one of the 'Big 4' networks?

12.Walk me through your education.

13.Do you prefer AP Style or Chicago Style writing? Which writing style guide do you best follow?

14.In a world filled with fake news, how do you ensure the legitimacy of your sources?

15.What was the worst performing story you have ever written? What did you learn from the experience?

16.Name 3 qualities you include in every story you write.

17.What negative things have you heard about our publication?

18.Being a journalist is a 24/7 job. Are you prepared to always be on, and available?

19.How would you make our blog more compelling, increase readership and boost social shares?

20.If you could improve your writing style in any way, what area would you focus on?

21.Which famous writer are you inspired by or appreciate the most?

22.If you could write about anything, which topic would you choose and why?

23.How do you determine priorities when you have multiple deadlines approaching?

24.Do you consider yourself a persuasive person? How important is the power of persuasion, in journalism?

25.When a significant problem arises, what is your first reaction?

26.Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

27.Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?

28.How did you prepare for this interview?

29.Do you feel that you are currently paid what you are worth?

30.In what type of situations is it better to stretch the truth to sell a story?