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:
1. Why do you want to be a journalist?
Interviewer Expectation: Assessing your passion for journalism and understanding of the role. Great examples would include listing blogs, websites or publications you write or have written for.
Example Answer: "(Situation) During my university years, I contributed to the student newspaper, covering various events. (Task) I aimed to inform and engage the student body through compelling stories. (Action) I conducted interviews, researched diligently, and wrote articles on topics like campus policies and cultural events. (Result) This experience ignited my passion for journalism, reinforcing my desire to pursue it professionally."
2. Who is your favourite journalist and why?
Interviewer Expectation: Gaining insight into your influences and understanding of journalistic styles. This gives you an opportunity to let the interviewer know what inspires you and the type of interests you have.
What you should talk about: 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.
3. How could our publication be improved?
Interviewer Expectation: Evaluating your familiarity with the publication and ability to provide constructive feedback. If you haven't done your research it will quickly show! Come up with some intelligent suggestions that are realistic. For instance, what sections could be more in-depth? What do rival publications do well? Should it charge for content or extend to new medias? 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.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Having reviewed your recent editions, I noticed a focus on political and economic news. (Task) To broaden readership, integrating more human-interest stories could be beneficial. (Action) Introducing a weekly feature highlighting community initiatives or personal stories might engage a wider audience. (Result) This could enhance reader connection and diversify content appeal."
4. Describe a time when you had to meet a tight deadline.
Interviewer Expectation: Assessing your time management skills and ability to work under pressure.
Example Answer: "(Situation) During my internship at a local newspaper, breaking news required immediate coverage. (Task) I was assigned to write an article within two hours. (Action) I quickly gathered information, verified facts, and composed a concise report. (Result) The article was published promptly, receiving positive feedback for its accuracy and timeliness."
5. How do you ensure the accuracy of your reporting?
Interviewer Expectation: Understanding your fact-checking and verification processes.
Example Answer: "(Situation) While writing a piece on local elections, accuracy was paramount. (Task) I needed to present unbiased and correct information. (Action) I cross-referenced official election results, interviewed multiple sources, and reviewed public records. (Result) The published article was praised for its thoroughness and reliability."
6. Can you provide an example of a challenging story you covered and how you handled it?
Interviewer Expectation: Evaluating problem-solving skills and resilience.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Covering a protest during my university years presented challenges due to heightened tensions. (Task) My goal was to report objectively without escalating the situation. (Action) I maintained a respectful distance, interviewed participants from both sides, and fact-checked all statements. (Result) I managed to publish a balanced article that received commendation for its impartiality and depth."
7. How do you handle feedback or criticism of your work?
Interviewer Expectation: Assessing openness to growth and professional development.
Example Answer: "(Situation) After submitting an article during my internship, I received constructive criticism from my editor. (Task) I needed to refine my writing style to align with the publication's tone. (Action) I carefully reviewed the feedback, revised the article accordingly, and sought additional guidance. (Result) The improved piece met editorial standards, enhancing my writing skills."
8. What role do you believe social media plays in modern journalism?
Interviewer Expectation: Understanding of digital platforms and their impact on news dissemination.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Social media has transformed how news is consumed and shared. (Task) As a journalist, it's crucial to adapt to these changes. (Action) I utilise platforms like Twitter and Facebook to monitor trends, engage with audiences, and promote articles. (Result) This approach increases reach and fosters interactive journalism."
9. Describe a situation where you had to adapt your writing style for a different audience.
Interviewer Expectation: Assessing versatility and audience awareness.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Writing for both the university newspaper and a local community blog required different tones. (Task) I needed to adjust my style to suit each readership. (Action) For the newspaper, I maintained a formal, informative approach; for the blog, a conversational, relatable tone. (Result) Both audiences responded positively, reflecting my adaptability."
10. How do you stay updated with current events and industry trends?
Interviewer Expectation: Evaluating commitment to continuous learning and awareness.
Example Answer: "(Situation) The fast-paced nature of news requires constant updating. (Task) I aim to remain informed about global events and journalism practices. (Action) I subscribe to reputable news outlets, participate in webinars, and engage with professional networks. (Result) This ensures my reporting is relevant and aligns with industry standards."