MockQuestions

Journalist Mock Interview

To help you prepare for your Journalist interview, here are 30 interview questions and answer examples.

Journalist was updated by on January 27th, 2019. Learn more here.

Question 1 of 30

Name 3 qualities you include in every story you write.

The interviewer would like to see that you understand what makes a great story, or article. Most writers agree that some of the essential components of a well-written piece include a firm story structure, compelling characters, and consistent style or tone. Be prepared to discuss what you believe every great story should contain.

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30 Journalist Interview Questions & Answers

Below is a list of our Journalist interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.

  • 1. Name 3 qualities you include in every story you write.

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

  • 3. Do you feel that you are currently paid what you are worth?

  • 4. How did you prepare for this interview?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • 15. What negative things have you heard about our publication?

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

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

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

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

  • 20. Walk me through your education.

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

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

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

  • 24. Would you be hesitant to ask potentially uncomfortable questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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