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.
- Other info: Candidates living in Bridgwater without a licence may still apply.
- 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.
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.
Digital Reporter in Taunton employer: Newsquest
Join a dynamic newsroom in Taunton where your voice matters and your stories shape the community. At Newsquest Somerset, we foster a collaborative work culture that values creativity and innovation, offering you the chance to grow as a journalist while making a real impact in local journalism. With flexible hybrid working arrangements and opportunities for professional development, this is an excellent place for passionate reporters looking to thrive in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Digital Reporter in Taunton
✨Get Involved in Local Journalism
Join local journalism groups or community events to meet industry folks and make connections. Try volunteering for community newspapers or online platforms – it's a great way to get your foot in the door and show your commitment to the craft.
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Create a personal website or a blog to showcase your best articles, videos, or multimedia projects. This not only highlights your skills but also demonstrates your passion for journalism and helps establish your personal brand in the media landscape.
✨Stay Updated on the Industry Trends
Follow industry leaders on social media and stay updated on the latest trends in journalism. Engage with them by sharing your thoughts or asking questions – you never know when an informative tweet might catch the eye of a recruiter or journalist at Newsquest!
✨Explore Internships for Full-Time Opportunities
Don’t shy away from internships, even if you’re looking for full-time roles. Many journalism companies, like Newsquest, often hire from their intern pool, so using these as stepping stones can really pay off. Keep an eye on their career page for any openings!
We think you need these skills to ace Digital Reporter in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Skills:In journalism and media, your ability to write well is essential, so make sure your CV and cover letter reflect that. Include diverse writing samples, whether they’re articles, blog posts, or reports, that showcase your style and versatility. We want to see your voice and ability to engage an audience from the get-go!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've interned at a media outlet or contributed to any publications—whether student-run or professional—don't keep it a secret! We love seeing real-world experience, so clearly detail your responsibilities and achievements. Quantify your impact where possible, like mentioning audience growth or story reach.
Tailor Your Application for Newsquest:When applying for the Digital Reporter role at Newsquest, really dig into what makes their content stand out. Reference their tone, style, or any recent articles that resonated with you in your cover letter. This shows we you’re not just sending out generic applications—you’re genuinely interested in what we do!
Prepare for a Portfolio Spotlight:Since you're applying for a full-time role, you're likely expected to have a portfolio ready to go. Make sure to curate a selection of your best work that aligns with what Newsquest produces. Provide a link to your online portfolio in your CV and be prepared to discuss your favourite pieces in interviews—this is your chance to shine!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest
✨Show Off Your Writing Skills
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best writing samples. This is crucial in journalism as hiring managers want to see your voice and style. Make sure to include a variety of pieces, like news articles, features, and opinion pieces, showing your versatility.
✨Master the Art of Storytelling
During the interview, be ready to discuss how you approach storytelling. You might be asked to outline a story you reported on, your process for gathering information, and how you engage your audience. Practice telling a couple of your best stories concisely and compellingly.
✨Know the Current Media Landscape
Be prepared to discuss industry trends and how they affect journalism today. Familiarise yourself with key developments in media, and have opinions ready for discussions about digital versus traditional platforms, as well as ethical considerations in reporting.
✨Convey Your Passion and Drive
As you’re applying for a full-time role, they’ll want to know about your long-term commitment to journalism. Share your aspirations for future projects, any internships or freelance work, and how you see yourself growing within Newsquest. Show that you’re not just looking for a job, but a career in journalism.
