At a Glance
- Tasks: Write engaging headlines and optimise news content for a large audience.
- Company: Join Independent Media, a leader in innovative journalism and digital publishing.
- Benefits: Hybrid or remote work options, training at London HQ, and a diverse workplace.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with a dynamic team and grow your career.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-growing news brand and shape the future of journalism.
- Qualifications: Experience in journalism, SEO, and digital publishing is essential.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
About Independent Media
Independent Media comprises The Independent, Standard Digital, Bulletin, BuzzFeed UK, HuffPost UK, Tasty UK, Seasoned, IndyBest and indy100. Harnessing market-leading innovation and excellence across its portfolio of pioneering brands, Independent Media has unrivalled scale, integrity and authority via its sites, apps, video, audio, experiential, newsletters and social media. While each Independent Media brand speaks in an authentic, unique voice to a loyal and distinct audience, they stand together in their commitment to positivity, inclusivity, and quality journalism and content. Independent Media's network reaches 650 million users each month, with 1.1 billion content views across its brands and platforms, including web, apps, social media, podcasts, email, YouTube, syndication partners and print.
The role is a 12 Month Fixed Term Contract. The Independent is looking to recruit an optimisation editor to join an exciting new team, working across news and sport. The role will help further expand one of the world's fastest-growing news brands in a small team of digital publishing experts. The right candidate will come from a strong news background and have a firm grasp of all aspects of digital publishing, including SEO, social media and editing. They will need to be able to work independently to optimise content to reach a large audience. The role is perfect for candidates who want to take the next step in their career. The right person will be excellent at crafting copy and headlines, as well as planning and organising evergreen content for major events. The successful candidate should have a keen interest in the news industry and the future of journalism, including the use of AI on the Bulletin platform. Experience in a similar role at an equivalent title is essential. This is a middleweight to senior role, where the successful candidate will have regular dialogue with the Head of Growth and other senior colleagues. You will be expected to be comfortable managing multiple priorities in a calm and methodical manner. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. The roles are hybrid or remote, but with a requirement to convene at the London HQ for periodic training.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
We champion diversity in our teams and in our reporting. As a growing and global brand, we must have a workforce that's more representative of our readers, viewers, clients and partners, and a workplace that creates a sense of belonging for everyone. We are committed to hiring and developing a diverse workforce regardless of background, and we support our people to thrive in their careers here. The Independent is an equal opportunities employer; if you require any reasonable adjustments to complete your application, please do not hesitate to advise us accordingly.
Key responsibilities and accountabilities:
- Writing engaging headlines and editing news copy.
- SEO and digital publishing skills.
- Understand digital analytics tools.
- Have a proven track record as a journalist and have audience skills.
- Be a problem solver.
- Be a self-starter.
Essential skills and experience:
- Experience of successfully working in a similar role at a similar title.
- Experience in content optimisation.
- Demonstrable skill as a senior journalist.
- Strong familiarity with the Independent and our coverage.
- Excellent organisational and planning skills.
- Ability to interpret data and make insightful recommendations.
- Ability to clearly communicate best practices.
- Experience of working in a dynamic fast-paced media environment.
- Knowledge of world events.
Our values - you will deliver across all our values:
- Inclusive: We champion diversity in our teams and in our reporting. Working as a team, we put transparency and effective communication at the heart of everything we do.
- Innovative: From the very beginning, The Independent has been breaking the mould. We take risks and are always looking to try new ideas in pursuit of excellence.
- Independent: Nobody tells us what to think; we make up our own minds and aren't afraid to do things differently. Like our readers, we value honesty and integrity above outside influences.
Please note that this role is a 12 Month FTC.
Junior Optimisation Editor - 12 Month FTC employer: The Independent
The Independent is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. As an Ecommerce Data Strategy Lead, you will have access to extensive growth opportunities, working alongside talented professionals in a fast-paced digital environment that values data-driven decision-making. With a commitment to employee development and a focus on impactful projects, The Independent provides a rewarding platform for those looking to make a significant contribution to the eCommerce landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Optimisation Editor - 12 Month FTC
✨Get Your Foot in the Door
Temporary roles often pop up when companies need extra hands for specific projects, so keep an eye on local job boards and news websites. Don’t hesitate to check out industry-specific platforms like Journalism.co.uk or local community groups for short-term gigs.
✨Network Like a Pro
Attend journalism and media events in your area, such as press launches or panel discussions. These are golden opportunities to meet industry insiders who might have the scoop on temporary openings. Plus, connecting with your peers can lead to unexpected recommendations.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a portfolio that showcases your best work, even if it’s just student projects or freelance articles. For journalism, a strong online presence is key, so make sure to share your pieces on platforms like Medium or your own blog to attract potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Site
We often have temporary positions available at The Independent. Keep an eye on our careers page and apply directly – you're one step closer to landing that opportunity. Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that make you a standout candidate!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Optimisation Editor - 12 Month FTC
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Writing Style:When applying for a temporary role in journalism-media, it's crucial to exhibit your unique writing voice. Attach samples of your work that showcase not just your ability to report, but also to engage readers. A link to your online portfolio can really help us see your style and versatility!
Tailor Your CV to Highlight Relevant Experience:In the world of journalism-media, it’s all about storytelling and your CV should reflect that! Focus on any journalism-related internships, freelance articles, or relevant coursework. Make sure to include specific achievements, like publications or recognitions, that make you stand out.
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:For a temporary position, we want to know what excites you about journalism and why this role at The Independent matters to you. Share your motivation for applying and what you hope to learn during your time with us. Let your passion for the media shine through!
Stay Current with Industry Trends:Show us that you’ve got your finger on the pulse of journalism-media trends. Reference recent developments or challenges in the industry in your application to demonstrate your enthusiasm and awareness. This can set you apart from other candidates who may not be as in-the-know!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent
✨Showcase Your Versatility
In the world of journalism, adaptability is key. Be prepared to discuss various topics you've covered, whether it's breaking news, features, or investigative pieces. Bring along a portfolio that shows your range—think articles, videos, or even social media content you've created. This will demonstrate your ability to tackle different formats and subjects under pressure!
✨Nail That Story Pitch
As a temporary journalist, you'll need to hit the ground running. Before your interview with The Independent, think about a compelling story idea you could pitch them. Tailor it to their audience and showcase your unique angle—this will show you're proactive and understand their publication's style, which is gold in fast-paced media environments.
✨Know Your Tools
Familiarise yourself with the tools journalists use—whether that’s content management systems, Adobe Suite, or video editing software. During the interview, highlight your proficiency with these tools. A temporary role at The Independent might require you to jump into production quickly, and showing you're tech-savvy can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Quick Adaptation
In temporary roles, your ability to adapt and learn quickly is crucial. Be ready to discuss a time when you had to adjust your writing or reporting style to fit a new audience or medium. This will show The Independent that you can thrive in dynamic situations and won't just be another warm body—but a valuable team member right from day one.
