At a Glance
- Tasks: Write 4-6 engaging news articles daily and conduct interviews.
- Company: Join the Bridgwater Mercury and Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News, a key player in local journalism.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with three days in the office and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community through compelling storytelling and dynamic reporting.
- Qualifications: NCTJ qualification or equivalent, plus at least one year of journalism experience required.
- Other info: Candidates living in Bridgwater without a licence may still apply.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Digital Reporter
Application Deadline: 31 August 2025
Department: Editorial
Employment Type: Permanent
Location: Taunton
Reporting To: Milly Vincent
Description
Key Responsibilities
- Writing 4–6 engaging news articles daily for digital publication across Newsquest’s Somerset titles.
- Generating content for print editions of the Bridgwater Mercury and Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News.
- Conducting interviews with community members, dignitaries, and MPs to uncover the stories that matter most.
- Working under tight deadlines to produce clear, accurate, and impactful journalism.
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
- NCTJ qualification or equivalent, ideally with a relevant undergraduate degree.
- At least one year of experience in journalism, media, or PR.
- Strong news-gathering and writing skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
- A full driving licence and access to a vehicle are required. Candidates living on patch in Bridgwater without a licence will also be considered.
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Digital Reporter employer: Newsquest
Contact Detail:
Newsquest Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Digital Reporter
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local news landscape in Somerset. Read articles from the Bridgwater Mercury and Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News to understand their style and the types of stories they cover. This will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your knowledge during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with local journalists and media professionals in Somerset. Attend community events or journalism meet-ups to build connections. These relationships can provide valuable insights into the role and may even lead to recommendations when applying.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare a portfolio of your best written work that showcases your ability to produce engaging news articles. Include pieces that highlight your news-gathering skills and your capacity to meet tight deadlines, as these are crucial for the Digital Reporter role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current events and local issues in Bridgwater, Burnham, and Highbridge. Being knowledgeable about ongoing stories will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the community you’ll be reporting on.
We think you need these skills to ace Digital Reporter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in journalism, media, or PR. Emphasise your NCTJ qualification and any specific skills that align with the job description, such as news-gathering and writing abilities.
Showcase Your Writing Samples: Include examples of your written work that demonstrate your ability to produce engaging news articles. Choose pieces that reflect your style and versatility, ideally covering local stories or topics relevant to Somerset.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that expresses your passion for local journalism and your understanding of the community. Mention why you want to work for the Bridgwater Mercury and how your skills can contribute to their editorial team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV, writing samples, and cover letter. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, as attention to detail is crucial in journalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
As a Digital Reporter, your writing will be under scrutiny. Bring along samples of your best work that demonstrate your ability to write engaging and accurate news articles. Be prepared to discuss your writing process and how you approach different stories.
✨Know the Local Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the areas you'll be covering, such as Bridgwater, Burnham, and Highbridge. Research recent news stories and community issues in these locations. This knowledge will help you stand out and show your genuine interest in local journalism.
✨Prepare for Interviews
Since conducting interviews is a key part of the role, think about how you would approach interviewing community members or public figures. Prepare some questions in advance that could elicit compelling stories, and be ready to discuss your interview techniques.
✨Demonstrate Your Digital Savvy
Being digitally savvy is crucial for this role. Be ready to discuss your experience with digital platforms and social media. Highlight any relevant skills, such as SEO knowledge or familiarity with content management systems, that can enhance your reporting.