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- Tasks: Cover local councils and report on major news stories in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.
- Company: Join the Bournemouth Echo, a leading regional daily known for impactful journalism.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, competitive salary, and a vibrant work-life balance.
- Why this job: Be part of a talented team, develop your skills, and make a real impact in local journalism.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of local government, shorthand proficiency, and a formal journalism qualification required.
- Other info: Applications are reviewed as received, so apply early to secure your chance!
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Regional daily, the Bournemouth Echo, is seeking an outstanding reporter to cover politics in one of Newsquest's largest newsrooms, as part of the Local Democracy Reporting scheme. You will join a team renowned for breaking agenda-setting council stories and supporting the BBC's public journalism programme.
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
- We require someone with a strong knowledge and passion for local government, capable of producing engaging and high-quality copy.
- Shorthand proficiency and a formal journalism qualification are essential for this role.
Key Responsibilities
- You will cover local councils in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole, reporting on major news stories.
- This is a unique opportunity to join one of the UK's leading titles, known for high page views and subscriptions, with a strong print following.
- As part of Newsquest, you will be part of a network of leading news brands providing 24/7 coverage across the country.
- The role is funded by the BBC and is suitable for senior reporters looking to advance their careers, as well as outstanding newly-NCTJ qualified reporters.
- The service partners with major news publishers and the BBC, ensuring your stories reach a broad audience across various platforms.
- This flexible role involves covering council meetings, some in the evenings, offering a good work-life balance.
- This is a fantastic opportunity to join a talented team, enjoy a competitive salary, and live in the vibrant areas of Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.
- It provides a chance to develop your skills and collaborate with top professionals in regional news and the BBC.
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, so early submissions are encouraged.
Local Democracy Reporter employer: Newsquest
Contact Detail:
Newsquest Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Local Democracy Reporter
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local councils in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole. Understanding their current issues and key players will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in local governance.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current journalists and professionals in the field. Attend local council meetings or journalism events to make connections and gain insights into the role of a Local Democracy Reporter.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on local news and developments related to council activities. Being well-informed will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and showcase your knowledge of the local political landscape.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with producing engaging copy and your shorthand proficiency. Be ready to provide examples of your work that highlight your ability to cover complex stories in an accessible way.
We think you need these skills to ace Local Democracy Reporter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Local Democracy Reporter. Familiarise yourself with local government structures and current issues in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your journalism qualifications and any relevant experience in local reporting or politics. Emphasise your shorthand proficiency and any previous work that showcases your ability to produce engaging copy.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for local government and journalism. Mention specific examples of your work that demonstrate your skills and how they align with the role's requirements.
Submit Early: Since applications are reviewed upon receipt, don’t wait until the deadline. Submit your application as soon as you feel it’s ready to increase your chances of being considered.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newsquest
✨Show Your Passion for Local Government
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for local politics during the interview. Discuss any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your interest in local government and how it impacts the community.
✨Demonstrate Your Reporting Skills
Be prepared to showcase your writing abilities. Bring samples of your previous work, especially pieces that cover council meetings or local issues. This will help illustrate your capability to produce engaging and high-quality copy.
✨Highlight Your Shorthand Proficiency
Since shorthand proficiency is essential for this role, be ready to discuss your experience with shorthand. You might even want to mention how it has helped you in past reporting situations, ensuring you can capture important details quickly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team you'll be joining. Inquire about the types of stories they prioritise or how they collaborate with the BBC. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand the expectations better.
