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.
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I think that every story should contain characters that people can relate to, a storyline that is easy to follow and well planned, as well as a clear setting that can be imagined by the reader. When I write a story or an article, it's important that the reader can place themselves smack dab into the middle of the story."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Consistency in tone is crucial. No matter the piece that I am writing, the reader must feel that there is a consistent message. Compelling characters or at least a setting that the reader can relate to is also essential. Third, I always ensure that there is a plot where we see a struggle, and then the overcoming of that conflict or challenge."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2. In what type of situations is it better to stretch the truth to sell a story?
How to Answer
Journalism, the news, the media - everyone stands accused of sensationalizing details to gain traction on a story. The interviewer would like to know if you would stretch the truth to sell a story or to have it go viral. Of course, you already know that it is not okay to lie in an article or publication. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to sell stories without stretching the truth.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I feel that if you need to stretch the truth to sell a story, you probably aren't a natural writer or journalist. If you know what you're doing and understand your audience, there should be no need to stretch the truth. Honesty is always the best policy."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am not in the habit of stretching the truth. I believe that fact-based journalism is the best route. I would not want to make an important decision with any information loosely based on fact, so I would not do the same to my readership."
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. Do you feel that you are currently paid what you are worth?
How to Answer
Median pay can be difficult to gauge in journalism roles so the interviewer may have some questions regarding your earnings and salary expectations. The interviewer would also like to know if you feel undervalued in your current position. Many employees will look for new work if they think that they are underpaid and underappreciated. Of course, this potential new employer wants to ensure that they will make you a competitive offer that will entice you to join their organization, and stay there.
Talk to the interviewer about your current compensation and whether or not you feel it is fair. Be sure to have researched your answer to back you up, versus throwing out a random number and hoping it will stick.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I know that I am underpaid compared to my industry colleagues. My company is small, and they do what they can, but this is part of why I am seeking a new position. I would like to see an increase in pay, by about 15%, plus an increase in responsibilities and growth opportunities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently with a start-up agency, so I am certain that I am not paid my worth in base salary, but I do receive a great number of perks including free lunches, a couple of trips per year, an option to work from home, and a health spending account. The perks are great, but I do know that someone with my skill set is worth more, speaking solely in base pay."
Written by Rachelle Enns
4. How did you prepare for this interview?
How to Answer
Preparation, organization, and research are critical activities of a successful journalist. If you show up to your interview flustered and unprepared, the interviewer knows that this is how you will handle your projects. They want to hear the steps that you took to prepare for your interview today. The wrong answer is that you are winging it!
Even if you did not have a lot of time to prep for the meeting, or it was a last-minute booking, chances are you still took the time to search the company online or read through the job description. You can be brief and quickly touch on the ways that you prepared for the meeting.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have brought a fresh and updated portfolio of my work for you today. Also, I reviewed the job description in full, and I have a couple of questions prepared, which I would like to discuss at the end of our meeting if time allows."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Your publication is one that I have had my eye on for some time now. I am well aware of your company history and took some time this week to get to know the tone of your work a bit better. I feel well prepared for our meeting today."
Written by Rachelle Enns
5. Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?
How to Answer
Journalists work on teams of people with a multitude of specialties and responsibilities. For that reason, your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a significant asset. If you work for a larger media company, you may have been asked to work on a project with employees from another department. Maybe you headed a project which required you to collaborate with the members of the social media team. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Exposure to cross-functional teamwork in my current position is widespread. I believe that when expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning, a cross-functional team project can be very successful. I go into collaborative projects with an understanding that everyone has their strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"When I worked for a larger media agency, we collaborated across departments all the time. We had the C-suite of Marketing and Operations, then the Content and Communications department, and Research. We would meet on a weekly basis to discuss larger projects and then collaborate through the week as needed. It was a great set-up and ensured smooth progress at all project stages."
Written by Rachelle Enns
6. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
How to Answer
As a journalist, you likely have a creative edge to you, and the interviewer wants to see some of that uniqueness shine. You are indeed not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your kids, or relationship status, for instance. Stick with a couple of fun facts to show the interviewer that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate!
Focus on unique non-work related skills or hobbies, but ones that you can draw a line back to when it comes to transferrable skills. For instance, you might share that you take boxing lessons during the week and that this opened the doors for you to interview Laila Ali once!
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I moved here from Ukraine when I was 8, speaking only Russian, and learned English from my Palestinian neighbor who spoke zero Russian. How? I'm still not sure, but we were pals and hung out daily and somehow figured out how to communicate! This experience taught me a lot about the importance of eliminating pre-conceived notions of others based on their background. I also learned how to communicate with people different than myself. This experience has helped me in my writing as well, and in being able to reach a broad range of audiences."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am a certified yoga instructor, and I spent three months after college traveling and doing yoga. I spent six weeks in Asia and another six weeks in Latin America, and it was a fantastic experience that helped me to grow as both a yogi and a journalist."
Written by Rachelle Enns
7. When a significant problem arises, what is your first reaction?
How to Answer
Journalists will run into roadblocks on a regular basis, and the interviewer wants to see that you can handle these unexpected and unwelcome situations. Let the interviewer see that your reactions to problems reflect maturity and professionalism. How you react will significantly determine how you fit with their existing team.
Perhaps your computer crashes, and you realize you may have just lost all of your hard work. Or maybe you are limited on time and have a deadline rapidly approaching. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you take a very systematic approach to problem-solving, rather than reacting impulsively when a problem occurs.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"When a significant problem arises, my first instinct is to take a step back and absorb what just happened. I then go into 'brainstorm' mode, jotting down potential ways to resolve the issue. From there, I can use a pros and cons list to determine the best course of action for a fast and amicable resolution."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In the event of a significant problem or setback, my first reaction is to freeze in disbelief for a moment or two while I gather myself, then I jump into action. I know that I need to work harder and faster to recover the time and effort lost. My journalist mind goes into overdrive until the issue comes to a resolution."
Written by Rachelle Enns
8. Do you consider yourself a persuasive person? How important is the power of persuasion, in journalism?
How to Answer
Part of being an excellent journalist is also having the power of persuasion when necessary. There is a difference between persuasion and debating - or even leading and convincing. Persuasion is used when you want to influence someone rather than tell them that they are wrong, and you are right.
The power of persuasion is essential if you are selling or pitching anything. It is also a helpful skill when you want to gain momentum with your coworkers or have your boss better understand your approach on a project. Most importantly, as a journalist, persuasion can be used in your writing or when you need to help someone understand your point of view, or even convince them to interview with you!
It is not a negative thing to be persuasive. Talk to the interviewer about whether or not you consider yourself to be a persuasive individual.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Persuasion and journalism methods go hand in hand so, yes, I believe that I am a persuasive person. My approach is not sly or combative in any way, however. I go about persuading others by displaying how my approach, or belief, could benefit the other party. In my case at work, the person I want to interview, or the audience that I am trying to capture."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Persuasion is everywhere - from the conversations we have with friends, to the articles that we read. I am persuasive but not pushy. I first ensure that the groundwork is present, there is rapport, and enough evidence to support my belief or viewpoint. I need to be able to prove the upside to whomever I am reaching."
Written by Rachelle Enns
9. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple deadlines approaching?
How to Answer
Journalists often work on multiple stories at a time, all requiring a unique pace, and many with tight deadlines. The interviewer would like to know that you can determine which projects need your attention over others. When you feel torn between multiple projects or deadlines, how do you decide which one needs your attention the most? Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities and hitting your deadlines - even with room to spare!
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I book my time in batches, ensuring that each project is alotted the hours that it requires to meet my deadline well before the eleventh hour. If I have priorities that cannot budge, I will work overtime as needed. I do have a research assistant that I can lean on as well. He will often lay the groundwork for what I need so that it fast forwards the time for projected completion."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention at what time, by the number of hours I estimate the piece requires. I am comfortable delegating tasks to my researcher when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
Written by Rachelle Enns
10. If you could write about anything, which topic would you choose and why?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if the topics that interest you the most are a match with the pieces they will ask you to write. Be sure to respond in a way that compliments the hiring company's area of focus. For instance, if they are a sports publication, you would want to refrain from saying that you only like writing on topics related to politics. Be truthful and also tie your answer in with the work that you will be doing in this position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I was thrilled to see your job posting for a sports writer because I live and breathe sports. I have played many sports competitively and write a sports blog in my spare time. If I could write about anything, I would choose to focus on stories of athletes who have overcome incredible obstacles, to reach their goals."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I like to write pieces related to history, government, and our country's political past. These topics resonate with the majority of people, including your readership, which I understand to be professionals, aged 38+. It's important to me that my pieces educate and teach while helping people to understand the social and economic issues that are most pressing today."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
11. Which famous writer are you inspired by or appreciate the most?
How to Answer
The writer who inspires you the most is also likely to influence your writing style. Although there is no right or wrong response to this question, be sure to give an answer that is well thought out. You don't want to choose a writer just because you think they are funny, for instance. Choose someone who has shaped you or your career and talk about how their writing has impacted you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I find the work of Virginia Woolf very inspiring. I first encountered her work in University, reading her well-known essay, 'A Room of One's Own' where she was inspiring a lot of new feminist thoughts in people. Her work has done a lot to encourage other female writers which I appreciate."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My favorite author of all time is James Joyce. His work is so influential that there are pubs named after him. Who wouldn't want that! Being of Irish descent myself, I love to read his work and see where his Irish heritage influenced his work the most. My favorite piece by James Joyce is 'Ulysses,' first published in its entirety in 1922. There were many offensive thoughts and ideas in the novel, which is why only partial publications were allowed before that time. I appreciate authors of old who pushed the envelope because it gave hope to the rest of writers and journalists who had controversial or unpopular ideas to share."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
12. If you could improve your writing style in any way, what area would you focus on?
How to Answer
This question is another way of asking about your weaknesses, as a writer. The interviewer would like to know where you want to improve your work so they know the area in which they would need to train you. Your response will be stronger if you can show that you are already taking action to improve that weakness. That action could include online or local coursework, taking on a writing mentor, or reading more books in the style of which you want to learn.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I would like to learn more about writing with persuasion. I feel that I have a good amount of skill in persuasive writing; however, my delivery could be tighter. I found an online course called 'Writing with Impact' and plan to begin it later this week."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Humorous writing, or writing funny and entertaining pieces for online publications is something that has interested me for a while. Because I have spent the past few years as a political journalist, I feel that my tone and style has become more serious than I would like at times. I started taking improv lessons last month and feel they are helping to loosen me up and spark my humorous side once more."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
13. How would you make our blog more compelling, increase readership and boost social shares?
How to Answer
The interviewer is checking to see if you have checked out their blog, or even their social presence, to know the tone and approach they are taking. When asked to give feedback in an interview, its best to show your expertise but keep your opinions lighter to avoid offending anyone, or trying to reinvent the wheel. Discuss what you would do to increase readership and boost social shares. Now is the time to show off your social media skills and knowledge!
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I had a long look at your blog and love that you cover a range of topics. One suggestion that I would make is to tag your blog posts and organize them so that it's easier for your readers to find articles on topics in which they are most interested. I think this would make their experience more enjoyable, making them more willing to share what they find."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"There is a lot of amazing content on your website, and my biggest suggestion would be to add a more obvious social sharing button. It took me a minute to find it when I wanted to share one of your articles. To make the content more compelling, I would suggest the use of more gifs, videos, and interactive graphics."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
14. Being a journalist is a 24/7 job. Are you prepared to always be on, and available?
How to Answer
A journalist rarely rests their mind, as you may already know! The interviewer would like to see that you have the go-getter attitude required to be a successful journalist. Whether chasing a lead, going after a challenging story, or researching on your laptop into the wee hours of the night; it's essential that you show enthusiasm for your work. Of course, work-life balance is vital; however, there will be times when you may need to work overtime to hit deadlines or to get the story that you want.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am sure that the hours I put in, whether on weekends, evenings, or even holidays, will be well worth the added effort. I am willing to do what it takes to deliver over and above your expectations. In my current role, I work about 50 hours per week, without hesitation or complaint."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Technology makes it so easy these days, to work from home, my laptop, my phone, and as I travel. I rarely turn my journalist mind off, and I am happy to do what it takes to make a story or article happen."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
15. What negative things have you heard about our publication?
How to Answer
This question is a tricky one because you do not want to foster an air of negativity during the interview. If you have heard negative things about the employer, you likely do not yet have the rapport to bring it up let alone help them make a move towards change. Keep your answer light and comfortable for the interviewer to address. The key here is to complete your response on a positive note.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I read on Glassdoor that growth within your organization can be slow. Could you comment on that for me? I am interested in joining a publication where growth opportunities are present as I prove myself to be a valuable team member. With that said, I have heard many more amazing things about your company, as opposed to negative."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Negative does not always mean it's true - this is one lesson that I have learned after years of being a journalist. I have heard primarily great things about your publication. Anything negative that I have heard, such as turnover or slow growth, are complaints that nearly all media organizations receive."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
16. Rate for me your knowledge of social media. In which platforms are you the strongest?
How to Answer
Social media, online publications, blogging, and more! As a journalist, you will be expected to understand how all platforms work together to make up journalism as we know it today. Discuss your knowledge of social media, rating your expertise from 1-10 or from beginner to expert. Then, talk about the ways that you work with social media platforms in your current role, and how your abilities on these platforms can help your potential new employer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I consider myself an advanced user on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I post to these platforms on a daily basis, and know how to plan content that works well together, how to create graphics for more exciting posts and the best types of call to actions that encourage sharing and commenting."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I recently took an online course on Twitter, bringing me to an intermediate level of knowledge with that platform. Facebook I know best, and my Instagram game is strong as well. In today's digital age, I believe it's critical for any journalist to know how to navigate all social platforms."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
17. What was the worst performing story you have ever written? What did you learn from the experience?
How to Answer
We all have fails in our career, from time to time. Talk to the interviewer about a story, or another piece of work that you have published, and what went wrong. Perhaps you cited an unreliable source, had plenty of typos (oops!) or mixed up names and facts, making for an uninformed read. It's okay to have failed at times, but what matters, is what you did to pick yourself up and recover.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"When I was newer to journalism, I used an anonymous source without doing enough due diligence. I was green and got caught up in the excitement of a potentially breaking story. It was an embarrassing fallout which led to my making an apology, and a huge lesson learned. Now, I refuse nearly all anonymous sources and am sure to research any sources, heavily."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"When I look back at my writing, some of my pieces from the earlier years make me laugh. I covered small things in my hometown, such as interviews with councilors. I just scratched the surface in many of these interviews, never wanting to ask the tough questions. Simply put, I didn't deliver the value that I could have to my readership at the time. Now, I dig deeper into every piece, ensuring that my work adds value and is part of an important conversation."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
18. In a world filled with fake news, how do you ensure the legitimacy of your sources?
How to Answer
Ensuring that your sources are legitimate is a massive part of your success and reputation as a journalist. There are so many accounts of lousy reporting, fake news, and illegitimate sources these days, so you must share with the interviewer what you do to avoid this embarrassing mistake from happening to you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"One of my fast and firm rules is that I never allow for the use of anonymous sources. This rule has saved me from many embarrassing instances where I could have irresponsibly reported fake news. If I have to grant anonymity to a source, there is a lot of due diligence that must occur first."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I always as myself if a source is credible and knowledgable before I lean on them for anything. Also, I make sure that my editors are on board and fully satisfied that my source is reliable. This decision isn't a one-person decision most of the time. Everything from a source is pre-verified before any publication or broadcast."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
19. Do you prefer AP Style or Chicago Style writing? Which writing style guide do you best follow?
How to Answer
AP Style, known more formally as the Associated Press Stylebook is a 330-page style book that addresses writing styles or 'rules' for copy written by journalists, PR firms, or news entities. It touches on adequately citing sources and correct usage of titles.
Chicago Style, also known as the Chicago Manual of Style is a much longer 950-page style book that acts as a much more robust guide for editors, authors, and book publishers.
Discuss with the interviewer which stylebook you prefer, and why. It's essential that you are familiar with both style books, but it is common for writers to lean towards one over the other.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As a journalist, I am much closer to the AP Style, since it helps me to prevent potentially embarrassing errors when it comes to titles, citing sources, or accidental plagiarism. With that said, I am also very familiar with Chicago Style, which I refer to when writing larger pieces such as ebooks or editorials."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I have training in both Chicago Style and AP Style; however, I find that I reference AP Style more often in my journalism career. I see both style books to be an excellent help to me as a writer, and a journalist."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
20. Walk me through your education.
How to Answer
Most employers who are looking for a journalist will require a Bachelor's degree in journalism, communication, English, or a related field. Although your education is on your resume, the interviewer is asking you to expand on your post-secondary education experience. A few highlights you can focus on are some of the relevant topics you learned about while attending your journalism courses. Discuss how your post-secondary education will help you in this new role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am a big believer in post-secondary education. It adds a lot of value to those newer to the workplace. My post-secondary education was in Communication with a minor in Political Journalism. The courses in this program helped me to develop stronger industry relationships through professional correspondence. I also learned persuasive writing skills which have proven to be incredibly helpful when writing pieces on the hottest topics of today."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I recently completed my Bachelor's Degree in English, thinking that I wanted to be a content writer for online publications, and social media content. I ended up changing my path slightly, into sports journalism. The courses that I excelled in included Advanced Interviewing Techniques as well as Broadcast for on-air performance, and field producing."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
21. Do you have aspirations to work for one of the 'Big 4' networks?
How to Answer
The 'Big 4' networks include ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox. Many aspiring journalists see these stops and having 'made it' in their career, while other journalists would much rather work for themselves or other more independent news entities. Be honest about your aspirations without sounding like you want this opportunity only as a stepping stone.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My greatest aspiration is to work for a publication where I can keep my integrity, and work on pieces for which I have a passion. It's also important to me that I am proud of the ethics that come along with my employer. If that happens to be a 'Big 4' down the road, that's great; however, it isn't my greatest aspiration as a journalist."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My greatest aspiration as a journalist is to be known as a writer, reporter, and researcher with a unique angle, interesting stories, and integrity. I am more concerned about the types of stories I would be working on versus working for a Big 4. Also, for myself, that would likely require relocation which is not something I am entertaining at this point in my life."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
22. How do you feel about recent steps towards the regulation of social media?
How to Answer
The government and other organizations like the FCC are coming together to crack down on social media. This pressure is coming from complaints of how data is stored, and shared, as well as the spread of fake news, and other harmful publication practices. Discuss with the interviewer what you know about the regulation of social media platforms, and how you feel these regulations will affect your role as a journalist.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I believe that it's important to have social media regulations that hold people accountable for what they publish. I recently read an article on how much repeat content we see in a day, and how much of that is fake news or a hoax. I think it's important to regulate without censoring those that are working hard to spread legitimate information and thoughts."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I believe the regulation of social media is a responsible step to ensuring that the information people consume in the media is legitimate and true. It is so easy these days for anyone to publish work that could be harmful or simply untrue. Having standards is an essential factor when it comes to social media."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
23. Would you take on a story that could tarnish the reputation of another?
How to Answer
This question is an ethics based query, and the interviewer wants to know how far you would go for a story. If you knew that a written piece of yours could go viral, but it would ruin someone else's reputation, would you still write it? If you would, what would be your reasoning? And, if you would not do this, discuss why.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I only write the truth, and it has to have supporting facts. If we are talking about outing a politician for having multiple affairs, and there is proof of such, I believe I would have a responsibility to the public to publish that story. My rule of thumb is to always have undeniable proof before writing a piece that could be potentially damaging."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I like to keep things non-controversial when it comes to people and their reputations. However, if it's for the overall good of the public, I would write the piece. My first question would be, is it gossip or is there some truth behind the rumors. If there were truth behind the story, I would write the piece."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
24. Would you be hesitant to ask potentially uncomfortable questions?
How to Answer
Hard hitting questions and uncomfortable silences. Can you handle it? An excellent journalist will never shy away from the tough stuff, and the hiring authority wants to make sure you are cut out for these moments.
Discuss how you never shy away from asking the tough questions. If possible, discuss a time when you conducted an interview that required you to prob and ask the hard questions.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have no issues with asking potentially uncomfortable questions, and digging to get the answers that I need. That is the heart of true journalism after all! I will always go into an interview with pre-written questions, but if I sense that the story could go another direction, I will never hesitate to chase my intuition and ask some harder hitting questions."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am not a shy person and, when I feel well-researched, I can ask any relevant question, no matter how uncomfortable it may seem. Recently I interviewed a politician accused of fraud. Because of my background in finance, I knew what questions would press a little harder than others. I did not hesitate to go down that road, and it was well worth the great article I was able to publish."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
25. Are you comfortable interviewing people? Tell me about your exposure to one-on-one interviews.
How to Answer
As a journalist, you will write stories and articles where interviewing a subject matter expert, an influencer, or even a witness, is a requirement. The interviewer would like to know that you can conduct interviews without feeling shy or incapable.
If you have experience conducting one-on-one interviews, you can discuss that experience by talking about the most challenging conversation you have ever undertaken.
If you do not have experience with one-on-one interviews, discuss any training you have received or mention how capable you feel doing interviews.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have interviewed hundreds of people in my journalism career; whether on the phone, in person, or through video calling. I am comfortable making cold calls to book interviews, and I am more than capable of asking the tough questions. Some of the most memorable interviews I have done include a one-on-one meeting with our local police chief, the mayor, and a couple of Olympic hopefuls from our city."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Although I am newer to my role as a journalist, and have not yet taken on any significant interviews, I do have experience reaching out to potential people for an interview, and cold calling to find strong sources. I hope to gain much more experience with conducting one-on-one interviews in this position with your publication."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
26. Would you rather write a story that laid down the facts, or one that entertained an audience?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
27. How important is it to exercise impartial narrative in your writing?
How to Answer
To have an impartial narrative in your writing means that you do not show bias in the pieces that you are creating. For instance, when writing an article that sparks controversy, the publication you work for may ask you to give the facts, and allow the reader to form their ideas and opinions. Discuss what an unbiased narrative means to you, and how you ensure you deliver an impartial piece of writing.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am objective, relying only on facts when I need to write a piece that has an impartial narrative. It's important to me that I allow my readers to form their own emotions, thoughts, and ideas behind a topic. Now, this is not for all topics and pieces that I take on; however, I am extra careful to remain unbiased when writing pieces on hot topics such as politics or religion."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Much of what I write is humor or satire, which is often dripping in bias. When I have to write an impartial piece, I am cautious to find original and reputable sources as well as use many facts. Also, I use a third person voice when writing unbias pieces, to keep any opinion out of my work."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
28. Which topics interest you the most, when it comes to reading, writing, and research?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know the types of topics and work that interest you the most. Then, they can better gauge where they could place you, or the kinds of assignments you would most like to deliver. Discuss your topics of interest while also ensuring that they align well with some of the work you would be asked to perform in this role. Show enthusiasm for writing and journalism over a handful of topics rather than sticking to just one.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I read a lot and have an interest in a variety of topics including business, marketing, entrepreneurship, and education. These are topics I know well and can deliver on quickly. With that said, I am great with researching topics I may not know."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my current journalism role, I write a great deal on sports, entertainment, and advertising. These topics cover a lot of sub-topics as well which makes me an excellent resource for many types of written projects. No topic is off limits when it comes to research."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
29. Tell me about the last book you read and what your biggest takeaway was from the experience.
How to Answer
This question is one of interest, and your response will give the interviewer a good idea of the types of topics in which you like to immerse yourself. The wrong answer to this question is that you don't enjoy reading, or that you aren't reading anything at the moment! A great journalist is ever-curious, loves to learn, and perform research. Discuss the book you are reading and, if you'd like to start a good conversation with the interviewer, you could also ask what book they are diving into currently. Reading recommendations are always a great topic of discussion!
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Right now, I am reading 'Bunk' by Kevin Young. Have you heard of it? The book addresses the rise of fake news, plagiarism, and hoaxes in media and publications today. It's been an informative and eye-opening read. I try to pick up a new book every couple of weeks. Do you have any favorite books you'd like to recommend?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"This year I committed to reading one new book every week. This week, I am reading 'Evicted' by Matthew Desmond. It dives into poverty in America which is a topic that I have always found fascinating. The gap between the rich and the poor, and what our country can do to help others flourish. I'd love to hear your recommendations if you have some for me!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
30. What issue, currently on the political agenda, interests you the most right now?
How to Answer
We are told never to discuss politics or religion so - what if the hiring authority asks you about these topics, specifically? Depending on the publication for which you are interviewing, you may be asked to comment on politics or some other hot button topic. This situation is where pre-interview research is pertinent because to respond appropriately; you need to know your audience. Discuss what political issue is interesting you the most right now, and discuss an opinion from both sides of the coin.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"One issue on the political agenda is the intensification of social movements such as #metoo and #blacklives matter. We have seen activism flourish over the past couple of years, and it's' continuing to grow. I hope to see this level of involvement increase for some of these world-changing movements."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Gun control continues to be a political issue that I cannot research enough. Both sides have very credible arguments, and I love to research and learn about ways that we could come to a happy medium for everyone. I have researched gun laws in Australia as well and am very impressed with what that country has done concerning guns and weapons law."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2019