At a Glance
- Tasks: Join The Economist's Digital team to create and publish engaging content.
- Company: The Economist, a leading source of global analysis and insights.
- Benefits: Paid internship (£30,000 per annum) with opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Work with a close-knit team and gain experience across various media formats.
- Why this job: Kickstart your journalism career in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Strong writing skills and a curiosity about the world are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 £ per year.
The Economist is offering a 12-month internship in London to work in the digital section of our editorial department. We are looking for a talented, enterprising and adaptable person to join the Digital department for a one-year, full-time, paid internship (£30,000 per annum), beginning in the late summer/early autumn 2025.
The editorial internship will involve:
- Working on the World in brief news briefing and helping to publish articles, as part of a global team
- Tracking the workflow of stories and liaising with different departments
- Curating the homepage and app
- Pitching and writing articles
The intern will work in the Digital team but will be able to contribute to other departments, from the weekly edition to podcasts to videos to 1843. The occasional weekend shift will be required.
The aim of the internship scheme is to find and train future Economist journalists. Previous journalistic experience is not necessary, but candidates should have excellent writing and analytical skills. They should be curious about the world and be able to write about it concisely, wittily and with rigour. Interns should quickly become familiar with The Economist’s Style Guide.
Candidates should ideally show an interest in our “back-half” topics: business, finance, economics, technology or science. They will also need to be meticulously organised, possess a keen eye for detail and feel comfortable learning to work with different publishing systems. Teamwork skills are essential.
We encourage the active use of AI tools, but not for writing. This job is based in London. All applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom.
The Economist Group values diversity and is committed to equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment for all our employees. We welcome applicants regardless of ethnic origin, national origin, gender, race, colour, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation or age.
Digital Intern employer: The Economist
The Economist is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration among its talented team. With a strong focus on professional development, employees have ample opportunities to grow their skills while working on high-profile global events that make a significant impact. Located in a vibrant city, the company provides a stimulating environment where innovation thrives, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Digital Intern
✨Dive into Digital Journalism Communities
Join online platforms like Medium or Substack where aspiring journalists share their work. Engage with posts and connect with writers in your niche; a little visibility can go a long way, especially when hunting for internships like the one at The Economist.
✨Leverage University Partnerships
Tap into your university’s career services! Many have connections with media outlets and offer internship fairs. Don’t hesitate to ask about contacts they have – they might know exactly how to get your foot in the door for that coveted Digital Intern spot.
✨Create a Compelling Portfolio
Put together an online portfolio showcasing your best articles, blogs, or multimedia work. Having a platform like a personal website or an easy-to-navigate Behance page can leave a lasting impression, especially when applying for internships at places like The Economist.
✨Pitch Ideas to Blogs and Local Publications
Want to stand out? Instead of waiting for openings, pitch your ideas to local blogs or smaller publications. It’s a great way to build your portfolio and gain invaluable experience that can help you land that internship at The Economist.
We think you need these skills to ace Digital Intern
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Story:In journalism and media, your ability to tell a compelling story is key. Use your cover letter to illustrate your passion for storytelling—whether it’s through articles, blogs, or video content. Show us how you engage your audience and present information.
Show Off Your Portfolio:As an intern, you want to highlight your potential—so make sure to include a portfolio that showcases your best work. Whether it’s articles, video clips, or social media campaigns, we want to see your creativity and how you handle different formats.
Demonstrate Your Research Skills:Research skills are essential in journalism. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or experiences where you've conducted thorough research. We love seeing candidates who know how to gather information and verify sources—it's a great indicator of your potential in the field!
Tailor Your CV for Journalism:Make sure your CV reflects your experience in journalism specifically. Include any relevant positions, internships, or volunteer roles, listing key responsibilities and achievements. Don't forget to mention any published work and skills like interviewing, editing, or using media tools!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Economist
✨Showcase Your Writing Samples
As a journalism intern, it’s crucial to have a few strong writing samples ready to impress. Pick articles or pieces that highlight your style and versatility - whether they're news articles, features, or opinion pieces. Bring them along to your interview at The Economist to show you’ve got the chops!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions, particularly around ethics in journalism or how you'd handle a tight deadline. Think about real-world situations you might encounter in a newsroom and be ready to discuss how you'd tackle them. This will help demonstrate your critical thinking and quick decision-making skills.
✨Know Your Trends
Stay updated on current events and trends within the media landscape. Be prepared to discuss your thoughts on the impact of social media on journalism or recent developments in the industry. This showcases your passion and engagement, which is vital for an intern role at The Economist.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
As an intern, your motivation and willingness to learn are key. During the interview, share why you’re excited about the internship at The Economist and how you see it helping you grow as a journalist. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates who've got the skills but may lack that spark.
