When applying for a journalist position, your resume is vital in getting the hiring manager’s attention. A well-written resume will highlight your experience, education, and skills – all of which are important when working in this field.
To help you create a winning journalist resume, we have put together some tips and tricks that you can use to design an excellent resume structure:
Table Of Contents
1. Journalist’s Resume Title
Your journalist’s resume title is one of the first things potential employers will see, so making a good impression is essential. Here are some tips for choosing a journalist resume title that will help you stand out:
- Use keywords that describe your journalist skills and experience. This will help your resume title stand out in search results.
- Keep it short and sweet. A journalist’s resume title should be a few words long.
- Avoid using jargon or abbreviations that everyone might not understand.
- Be specific. Instead of using a general journalist resume title, try to be as specific as possible about your skills and experience.
2. List your experience
Make sure to list your experience chronologically, starting with your most recent role. Include the name of the publication or news outlet you worked for and your job title and responsibilities.
3. Your Skills and accomplishments
Highlight your essential skills and accomplishments. As a journalist, you likely have a wealth of skills that can be useful in the workplace. Remember to highlight these on your resume, including hard and soft skills. Also include, what makes you stand out from other journalist candidates? Do you have expertise in a specific topic? Do you have any awards or recognition for your work? Again, be sure to list these things prominently on your resume.
4. Include Education
Don’t forget to include your education. While you may not need a formal degree to work as a journalist, any relevant coursework or internships should be listed.
5. Use simple language and action verbs
When describing your experience and accomplishments, use language that everyone can understand. Avoid jargon and technical terms, and opt for straightforward language instead.
6. Focus on results
When detailing your experience, focus on the results of your work. For example, how did your articles or stories impact readers? Did you receive any positive feedback or recognition?
7. Highlight your skills
Some examples of journalist skills include:
- Writing and editing
- Research
- Investigative skills
- Interviewing
- Time management
- Flexibility
- Creativity
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Attention to detail
8. Is a photograph required?
A journalist’s resume should ideally include a photograph. This is because many journalists work on television and radio, and a photograph helps put a face to the voice or on-screen personality. It also helps employers to remember the journalist when they are reviewing a large number of resumes. However, a passport-style photograph is also acceptable if a journalist does not have a professional headshot.
By following these tips, you can be sure that your journalist’s resume will stand out from the rest – giving you a better chance of landing the job you want. Happy writing!
