If you're a graduate looking to get into journalism and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate journalism questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.
Example Journalism Interview Questions:
Why do you want to be a journalist?
Interviewers will be looking to pick out the dedicated pros from the fly-by wannabies. You should convey your enthusiasm for this choice and back it up with examples citing why you have the skills, personal qualities and experience to succeed. They will be looking for a media hungry candidate who could be involved in the A to Z of news channels. Great examples would include listing blogs, websites or publications you write or have written for. What are your specialist subjects and why do you think your opinion and reporting creates a loyal readership? The interviewer will be looking for you to portray your writing style in your answers so the order in which you put things in and the range of vocabulary you are using are all noted aspects of your answer.
Who is you favourite journalist and why?
This gives you an opportunity to let the interviewer know what inspires you and the type of interests you have. The likeliness is that you have several journalists you admire for different reasons so try to pick one that's most related to the position, and who most reflects the style of the publication. Give solid reasons why you like their style and explain how you have developed your own style through examples. Everybody has influences, and the way we work them into our work is a real test of originality. Remember this doesn't have to just be about writing style. You could admire a journalist for the stories they cover and the position they've taken on certain issues. With this in mind, make sure you know where the company stands on certain issues so you don't voice anything that could contradict their image. Many publications have well documented political affiliations so be very careful not to criticise these. As any good journalist should know, research is key.
How could our publication be improved?
If you haven't done your research it will quickly show! Don't attempt to blag it. Come up with some intelligent suggestions that are realistic. For instance, what sections could be more in-depth? What do rival publications do well? And if you're feeling really confident, what about its business model - should it charge for content or extend to new medias? Remember not to come across as too opinionated as chances are they would have thought about most of your ideas before. Your delivery should be open, and suggested ideas factual. For example, if you know of a public opinion on the publication you could suggest ways in which to sway the image it if needed by writing more about a certain subject. Be aware that your interviewer will be responsible for much of the content or direction of the publication so don't be too personal in your criticism.