At a Glance
- Tasks: Help cover breaking news and support the newsroom with exciting editorial projects.
- Company: Join The Conversation, a dynamic platform connecting experts and readers.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in journalism while working in a fast-paced environment.
- Other info: Perfect opportunity for early-career journalists looking to grow their skills.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that makes expert knowledge accessible to everyone.
- Qualifications: Organised, curious, and passionate about informative journalism.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 30000 € per year.
The Conversation is seeking an editorial assistant to help cover breaking news stories and carry out other duties to support the newsroom. This is a great opportunity for someone in the early stages of their career in journalism to join a fast-paced news environment.
Overview: Every day, The Conversation publishes articles written by experts from universities across the UK and Europe that explain and analyse the latest news, trends and research. Our articles are written for a non-expert audience with the aim of providing our readers with evidence-based information that can help them make better informed decisions. We are moving into new formats and media and are looking for a hard-working, multi-skilled journalist to help us experiment and expand our operation.
Responsibilities
- Produce panel-style articles, gathering and compiling quotes from academic experts in response to breaking news stories.
- Assist commissioning editors to complete other articles ready for publication.
- Collaborate with the audience team to promote The Conversation to external contacts.
- Help collect and analyse data to assist with managing the homepage and production of newsletters.
Qualifications and qualities
- Highly organised and able to thrive under pressure.
- Curious, with the ability to see the bigger picture while following the news compulsively.
- Full of ideas with excellent people skills and a commitment to informative, impartial journalism over campaigning and polemic.
- Excellent command of the English language; formal journalism training is less important than self-motivation, initiative and the ability to learn quickly from feedback.
How to apply
The closing date is 5th October, but we’ll be reviewing applications, so earlier is better. Please send your CV and cover letter to uk-jobs@theconversation.com.
About the company
Launched in 2011, The Conversation is a news and expert analysis website written by academic experts working with professional journalists to make expertise accessible to a wide audience. It operates on a not-for-profit model funded by universities, is ad-free, free-to-read and available under Creative Commons for republication. Our audience is international, with around 10 million pageviews a month (about 80% outside the UK and Ireland). The UK/Ireland edition is one of ten editions, publishing in six languages and generating around 47 million pageviews a month.
Seniority level
- Entry level
Employment type
- Part-time
Job function
- Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing
Industries
- Online Media
We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
Editorial Assistant employer: The Conversation UK
The Conversation is an exceptional employer for aspiring journalists, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment where creativity and collaboration thrive. With a commitment to informative journalism and a focus on professional growth, employees have the opportunity to engage with academic experts and contribute to meaningful content that reaches a global audience. Located in a fast-paced newsroom, this role provides invaluable experience in the media industry while promoting a culture of learning and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Editorial Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the journalism field, especially those who work at The Conversation or similar outlets. A friendly message on LinkedIn can go a long way in getting your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio of your best writing and any relevant projects. When you apply through our website, include links to your work so we can see what you can do!
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated with current events! Being well-informed about breaking news will not only help you in interviews but also show us that you're genuinely passionate about journalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Be proactive! If you see a story that aligns with our mission, don’t hesitate to pitch it. This shows initiative and gives us a taste of your creativity and insight into the news landscape.
We think you need these skills to ace Editorial Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for journalism and any relevant experiences. We want to see your personality come through, so don’t be afraid to let us know why you’re excited about this role.
Tailor Your CV:When applying, tailor your CV to showcase skills that match the job description. Focus on your organisational skills, ability to work under pressure, and any experience with writing or data analysis. We love seeing how you fit into our fast-paced environment!
Show Off Your Curiosity:In your application, demonstrate your curiosity about the news and your eagerness to learn. Mention any specific topics or trends you’re passionate about, as we’re looking for someone who can see the bigger picture while staying on top of breaking news.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We’ll be reviewing applications as they come in, so the earlier you apply, the better your chances. Head over to our website and get your application in today!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Conversation UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you’re up to speed with The Conversation's recent articles and their approach to journalism. Familiarise yourself with their style and the types of stories they cover. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples of your writing or any relevant projects you've worked on. If you’ve produced articles, gathered quotes, or collaborated with others, be ready to discuss these experiences. Highlighting your organisational skills and ability to thrive under pressure will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the future direction of The Conversation. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it’s important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. The Conversation values curiosity and creativity, so share your ideas and perspectives. Being authentic can set you apart from other candidates.