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- Tasks: Cover breaking news and create engaging digital content across North and West Cumbria.
- Company: Join the dynamic News & Star team in Carlisle, passionate about storytelling.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, structured career progression, and various perks.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for community engagement.
- Why this job: Make an impact in local journalism while using cutting-edge digital tools.
- Qualifications: NCTJ qualification or graduate level with strong digital journalism skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Carlisle‑based News & Star is looking for a digitally skilled, ambitious reporter who is passionate about storytelling and confident in presenting content across multiple platforms. You’ll cover breaking news and produce engaging content from across north and west Cumbria, with opportunities to contribute to the Whitehaven News and Times & Star. A key part of the role is immersing yourself in social media, developing relationships, understanding what matters to local audiences and being open to using AI tools as part of your workflow. The role is primarily newsroom‑based in Carlisle, with flexibility for home working and the expectation to spend time on patch.
We welcome applications from fully qualified NCTJ reporters (gold‑standard with 100wpm shorthand) or graduates seeking their first role in journalism.
Key Responsibilities- Cover breaking news and produce high‑quality digital content across North and West Cumbria.
- Contribute to reporting to the News & Star, Whitehaven News and Times & Star.
- Develop strong relationships with local contacts and communities.
- Use social media for newsgathering, engagement, relationship‑building and trend monitoring.
- Utilise AI tools appropriately as part of the role.
- Produce content ranging from live blogs and listicles to features and long reads.
- Use analytics and digital tools to inform decisions and improve performance.
- Work flexibly across early/late shifts and some weekends.
- Spend time on patch gathering stories, and representing the newsroom.
- Gold‑standard NCTJ qualification with 100wpm shorthand (or working towards/graduate level).
- Strong digital journalism skills with a versatile, energetic writing style.
- Ability to write quickly, accurately and under pressure.
- Excellent understanding of what digital readers want from local news.
- Strong social media awareness and passion for digital engagement.
- Good knowledge of media law.
- Ability to generate ideas and approach stories creatively.
- Skilled at building and maintaining community and contact relationships.
- Knowledge of SEO and its importance in digital publishing.
- Confident using analytics to shape content.
- Collaborative approach and ability to work well within a digital reporting team.
- A driving licence and access to a car are preferred.
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
- Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
- Structured career progression & ongoing training
- Pension plan
- Employee Helpline counselling and advice
- Perks & discounts including: Gym membership, Cycle to Work scheme, Eye care, Retail discounts
- Team building days & annual volunteer charity day
Reporter - Carlisle employer: Newsquest Media Group
Contact Detail:
Newsquest Media Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reporter - Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1
Get your social media game on point! Start engaging with local communities and news outlets online. This not only helps you build relationships but also shows potential employers that you're already immersed in the local scene.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up; create your own opportunities! Reach out to local publications, pitch story ideas, or offer to contribute as a freelancer. This proactive approach can really make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with AI tools and analytics. Show that you’re not just a traditional reporter but someone who’s ready to embrace the future of journalism. Highlight any experience you have with these tools in conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
When you apply, do it through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Reporter - Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Storytelling: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for storytelling shine through. Share examples of stories you've covered or ideas you have for future pieces that resonate with local audiences. We want to see your unique voice and how you connect with the community!
Highlight Your Digital Skills: Make sure to emphasise your digital journalism skills in your application. Talk about your experience with social media, AI tools, and any analytics you've used to shape your content. We’re looking for someone who’s not just a writer but a digital storyteller!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Reporter role at News & Star. Mention how your skills align with what we’re looking for, especially your understanding of local news and community engagement.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest Media Group
✨Know Your Local Stories
Before the interview, dive into the latest news from North and West Cumbria. Familiarise yourself with key stories and local issues that matter to the community. This will not only show your passion for the role but also demonstrate your understanding of the audience you'll be serving.
✨Show Off Your Digital Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with digital journalism tools and social media platforms. Prepare examples of how you've used these tools in past roles or projects. Highlight any innovative ways you've engaged audiences or gathered news online, as this is crucial for the reporter position.
✨Bring Your Ideas to the Table
Think about potential story ideas or angles you could explore in the role. During the interview, share these ideas to showcase your creativity and initiative. This will help you stand out as someone who is proactive and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Understand the Role of AI in Journalism
Since the job mentions using AI tools, brush up on how AI can enhance reporting and content creation. Be prepared to discuss your thoughts on this technology and how you might incorporate it into your workflow. Showing that you're open to innovation will impress the interviewers.