14 Entry-Level Journalist Cover Letters

Approved by real hiring managers, these Entry-Level Journalist cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Hiring Manager for Entry-Level Journalist Roles
Compiled by: Kimberley Tyler-Smith
Senior Hiring Manager
20+ Years of Experience

Entry-Level Journalist Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a passionate and avid news consumer, I was thrilled to come across the Entry-Level Journalist position at The New York Times. I have always admired the Times' commitment to delivering impactful stories and insightful analysis. In fact, I can still recall the first time I held a physical copy of the newspaper in my hands, feeling the weight of the world's stories at my fingertips. This memory has fueled my desire to contribute to The New York Times' journalistic legacy.

Throughout my time at my college newspaper, I took on various roles, from reporter to editor, which allowed me to develop a versatile skill set that I believe would be valuable to The New York Times. For instance, as a reporter covering the student government beat, I wrote a series of articles that led to increased transparency in the allocation of funds. This experience not only honed my investigative skills but also deepened my understanding of the importance of accurate, fact-based reporting.

Additionally, during my internship at Resume Worded, I spearheaded a project to revamp the company's social media presence, resulting in a 45% increase in engagement and a 20% increase in website traffic within three months. I believe that my experience in leveraging digital platforms to reach wider audiences could contribute to The New York Times' ongoing efforts to expand its readership.

I am truly excited about the prospect of joining The New York Times and working alongside some of the industry's most talented journalists. I am eager to apply my skills and passion for storytelling to create content that not only informs but also inspires readers around the world.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and learn more about how I can contribute to the continued success of The New York Times.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Versatile Skill Set

This key sentence effectively showcases the candidate's diverse range of skills and experiences, which will help them stand out as a strong candidate for the Entry-Level Journalist position.

Real-world Impact

By highlighting a specific achievement and its direct impact on the company, this key sentence demonstrates the candidate's ability to drive results and make a meaningful contribution to the organization.

Entry-Level Journalist Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

As someone who fell in love with storytelling at an early age, I was instantly drawn to the Entry-Level Journalist position at The New York Times. Your company's dedication to credibility, truth, and influence in the world of journalism aligns perfectly with my personal beliefs and aspirations. I believe that my journalism degree from Columbia University, combined with my experience at Resume Worded's editorial team, makes me a strong candidate for this role.

During my tenure at Resume Worded, I led a project to revamp our company blog, which resulted in a 30% increase in organic traffic within six months. This project honed my skills in researching, writing, editing, and promoting content, all of which are crucial for a journalist. Additionally, I worked closely with our tech team to understand SEO principles and incorporate them into our content strategy. This experience will allow me to contribute to the digital presence of The New York Times.

I also spearheaded a weekly newsletter that reached over 10,000 subscribers, increasing our open rates by 15%. I believe this demonstrates my ability to engage readers and communicate effectively, both crucial skills for a journalist at The New York Times.

What excites me about this role is the chance to write stories that matter, to unearth truths that impact society, and to be part of a team that values integrity above all else. I'm eager to learn from the best in the industry and grow as a journalist.

Thank you for considering my application. I'm looking forward to the possibility of contributing to The New York Times and continuing my journey in the world of journalism.

Best,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Showcase Quantifiable Achievements

Directly showing how your work impacted outcomes goes a long way in demonstrating your potential value to a future employer. When you mention specific numbers, like the 30% increase in organic traffic, it gives a tangible measure of your impact and effectiveness in your previous role.

Entry-Level Journalist Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr. Thompson,

I am reaching out to express my keen interest in the Entry-Level Journalist position at The New York Times, a platform I have always admired not just for its pioneering journalism but for its commitment to truth and innovation in storytelling. Growing up, my mornings were incomplete without the rich insights from The Times, which inspired me to pursue journalism. The New York Times stands out for its fearless approach to reporting and depth of analysis, aspects that resonate deeply with my own values as an aspiring journalist.

During my internship at City News, I spearheaded a project that uncovered a major environmental scandal, leading to a 40% increase in our monthly online readership. This experience honed my investigative skills and taught me the importance of digital storytelling in engaging a wider audience. At RW Tech Company, I contributed to a series on emerging technologies, which was recognized as "Feature of the Month" for its in-depth analysis and accessibility to non-technical readers. I am eager to bring this blend of investigative rigor and storytelling to The New York Times, contributing fresh perspectives and narratives to your esteemed columns.

The opportunity to work with a team that values innovation and impactful journalism is incredibly exciting to me. I am particularly drawn to The Times' commitment to leveraging digital platforms to tell stories that matter, a vision that aligns with my passion for using technology to enhance narrative depth and reach.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of discussing how my background, skills, and enthusiasms can contribute to the continued excellence and innovation of The New York Times. I am eager to contribute to and learn from the best in the industry, making meaningful impacts through compelling journalism.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Personal Connection to the Company

Sharing a personal connection or experience with the company shows that your interest is genuine and not just for the sake of getting a job. It helps if this connection is related to your career path, like growing up reading The New York Times and then pursuing journalism.

Highlighting Relevant Skills

When you speak about your past experience, highlight the skills you learned and how they can benefit your potential employer. In this case, learning the importance of digital storytelling during an internship directly applies to a journalistic role.

Connecting Skills and Company Needs

Explicitly stating how your skills can contribute to the company helps hiring managers see your potential benefit. Here, your investigative rigor and storytelling skills are directly tied to The Times' columns.

Aligning with Company Vision

Show that you share the same vision as the company. In this case, your passion for using technology to enhance narrative depth and reach aligns with The Times' commitment to leveraging digital platforms.

Expressing Enthusiasm to Learn and Contribute

Express your eagerness to both contribute to and learn from the company. This shows that you're not only interested in what you can give but also in how the job can help you grow as a professional.

Entry-Level Journalist Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Johnson,

I am thrilled to apply for the Entry-Level Journalist position at The Seattle Times. As a lifelong resident of Seattle, I have grown up reading your publication and have always admired the quality of your reporting and the depth of your local coverage. I am particularly drawn to your commitment to investigative journalism and your willingness to tackle complex issues facing our community.

During my time at the University of Washington, where I recently graduated with a degree in Journalism, I honed my skills as a reporter and storyteller. As the lead writer for the university's newspaper, I broke a story about a scandal involving the misuse of student funds, which led to a full investigation and policy changes. I also interned at Resume Worded, a local online news outlet, where I covered the city council and gained experience with data journalism. These experiences have prepared me to hit the ground running as a journalist at The Seattle Times.

What excites me most about this opportunity is the chance to learn from and work alongside some of the most talented journalists in the industry. I am eager to contribute my skills and perspective to your newsroom and to grow as a reporter under your guidance.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how I can contribute to The Seattle Times.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Show your enthusiasm for the journalism position

Starting your cover letter by expressing excitement shows you're not just looking for any job, but you're interested in this specific role as an entry-level journalist.

Connect with the company's mission

Mentioning what draws you to the company highlights that you have done your research and are aligned with their values and goals, crucial for a journalism role.

Highlight journalism achievements

Discussing a significant story you've worked on demonstrates your ability to make an impact, a key trait for a journalist at any level.

Express eagerness to learn and grow

An eagerness to learn from experienced journalists showcases humility and the desire to improve, both valuable qualities in the journalism field.

Be polite and forward-looking

Ending with a thank you and a forward-looking statement is a courteous and professional way to conclude a cover letter for a journalism position.

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Entry-Level Journalist Cover Letter Example

Dear Samantha,

As a lifelong lover of storytelling, I've always been drawn to the power of journalism to shine a light on important issues and give a voice to the voiceless. That's why I'm so excited to apply for the Entry-Level Journalist position at The Denver Post. With its commitment to in-depth reporting and its focus on local news, The Denver Post is exactly the kind of publication where I want to start my career.

During my time at Resume Worded University, I honed my skills as a reporter and storyteller. As editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, I led a team of 20 writers and editors to produce a weekly publication that covered everything from campus events to national politics. I also interned at RW Magazine, where I wrote several feature articles that generated over 50,000 pageviews each. But more than just the numbers, I'm proud of the impact my stories had on readers – from prompting a campus-wide conversation about mental health to helping a local nonprofit raise $10,000 for a new initiative.

I'm excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and passion to The Denver Post. I admire the paper's commitment to holding those in power accountable and telling stories that matter to the community. I would be thrilled to learn from and contribute to that mission as an Entry-Level Journalist.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how I can contribute to The Denver Post's important work.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Share your passion for impactful storytelling

Starting with a personal revelation about your love for storytelling immediately catches our attention. It shows that your interest in journalism goes beyond just a job—it's a calling. This passion is crucial for a career in media.

Demonstrate your skill development

Describing your growth as a reporter and storyteller assures us of your readiness for the challenges of the journalism field. Highlighting your leadership role and internship experience provides concrete examples of your capabilities.

Showcase the impact of your work

Quantifying the success of your articles and their societal impact offers solid proof of your effectiveness as a journalist. It tells us that you're not only skilled in writing but also in creating content that resonates with and affects your audience.

Admire the publication's mission

When you express admiration for our commitment to accountability and community storytelling, it demonstrates a deep understanding of our goals. This alignment between your values and ours is key to a harmonious and productive working relationship.

Thank your reader and show eagerness to contribute

Ending your cover letter with thanks and anticipation for a discussion about your role shows humility and professionalism. It also subtly suggests you're looking forward to being a part of our team, making you a memorable candidate.

Entry-Level Journalist Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the Entry-Level Journalist position at The Denver Post. As a Colorado native and avid reader of your publication, I have long admired the Post's commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful journalism that informs and engages the local community. I believe my strong writing skills, passion for storytelling, and dedication to uncovering the truth would make me a valuable addition to your newsroom.

During my journalism internship at the Boulder Daily Camera, I honed my ability to craft compelling narratives under tight deadlines. I covered a wide range of topics, from local politics to community events, and my articles consistently earned praise from editors for their thorough research, engaging prose, and unique angles. One of my proudest moments was when a feature I wrote about a local nonprofit's innovative approach to homelessness sparked a citywide conversation and led to increased funding for the organization.

I am particularly drawn to the Post's commitment to investigative journalism and holding those in power accountable. As a student journalist at the University of Colorado Boulder, I worked on a team that uncovered misuse of funds within the student government, resulting in the resignation of two top officials. I believe this experience has prepared me to tackle the complex, high-stakes stories that define the Post's reporting.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be thrilled to bring my skills, passion, and fresh perspective to the Post's newsroom and contribute to your mission of delivering journalism that matters.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Show excitement for the entry-level journalist role

Expressing excitement about the position shows you have a genuine interest and have done your research about the employer.

Highlight relevant skills and passion

Mentioning your skills and passion for the field demonstrates your readiness and enthusiasm for contributing to the team.

Point out your achievements

Sharing specific examples of your work and the praise you received highlights your ability to produce quality content under pressure.

Connect with the employer's values

Pointing out what draws you to the employer's mission can set you apart and show that you are a good culture fit.

End with appreciation and eagerness

Thanking the employer and expressing your excitement to contribute shows professionalism and a positive attitude towards being part of their team.

Junior Reporter Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

When I saw the Junior Reporter position open at CNN, I was reminded of the spark that ignited my passion for journalism. Growing up, I remember watching CNN with my family and being fascinated by the way reporters shared stories from every corner of the globe. It’s this global perspective and commitment to unbiased reporting that makes CNN an ideal place for me to grow as a journalist.

At Resume Worded, I cut my teeth in the world of digital media, taking on the challenge of producing engaging and well-researched content for a variety of platforms. One of my proudest achievements was executing a series of interviews with industry leaders, which boosted our website visits by 25% in three months. I gained invaluable experience in conducting interviews, transcribing audio, and turning raw information into compelling narratives.

Additionally, my experience as a radio intern at RW Tech Company allowed me to develop my audio editing skills and understand the nuances of broadcast journalism. I believe these skills will be beneficial in a dynamic and fast-paced environment like CNN.

The opportunity to work at CNN is exciting for me because of the network's extensive reach and reputation for excellence in journalism. I am particularly interested in the chance to report on international events and contribute to CNN's diverse and comprehensive coverage.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my passion for storytelling and commitment to truth to CNN as a Junior Reporter.

Best,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Highlight Relevant Wins

Pointing out your accomplishments that directly align with the requirements of the role you're applying for can be a solid win. In this case, successfully managing a weekly newsletter and improving its open rates emphasizes your ability to engage readers, a key skill for a journalist.

Junior Reporter Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr. Thompson,

I am writing to apply for the Junior Reporter position at The Miami Herald. As a recent graduate of the University of Miami with a degree in Journalism, I am excited about the prospect of starting my career at a newspaper with such a strong reputation for impactful local journalism.

During my time at the University of Miami, I gained valuable experience that I believe has prepared me well for this role. As an intern at Resume Worded, a local news website, I wrote several articles on tight deadlines, including a piece on a local business that was featured on the site's homepage. I also served as the Managing Editor of the university's student newspaper, where I oversaw a staff of 20 writers and editors and ensured that the paper consistently met its publication deadlines. These experiences have honed my writing and editing skills and have taught me how to thrive in a fast-paced newsroom environment.

I am particularly drawn to The Miami Herald's commitment to holding the powerful accountable and giving a voice to underrepresented communities. As a Miami native, I care deeply about this city and the issues facing its residents. I believe that local journalism plays a vital role in informing and empowering communities, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to this important work.

Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the chance to discuss my qualifications further and to learn more about how I could contribute to The Miami Herald's mission as a Junior Reporter.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Show your excitement for the journalism field

Expressing eagerness to start your career at a renowned newspaper highlights your passion for journalism and local issues. This personal connection encourages us to see you as more than just an applicant but as a future asset to our team.

Detail your relevant experience

Talking about your internship and the impact of your work showcases your ability to handle responsibilities and achieve results under pressure. Employers seek candidates who can demonstrate real-world experience, especially in fast-paced environments like newsrooms.

Highlight your alignment with the company's values

When you mention your shared commitment to important journalistic principles, it shows that you've done your research and understand what we stand for. It makes us believe you will fit into our culture and contribute to our mission effectively.

Emphasize the importance of local journalism

By understanding the role of journalism in community empowerment, you display a mature perspective on your profession. It suggests you're ready to tackle stories that matter and can handle the responsibilities of being a voice for the community.

Express gratitude and openness for discussion

A polite thank-you and an invitation to talk more about your fit for the role shows your professionalism and eagerness. It leaves a positive impression, making us more inclined to want to learn more about you.

Digital Content Writer Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the Digital Content Writer position at Buzzfeed, a platform I admire for its dynamic approach to content creation and its ability to keep a finger on the pulse of digital culture. My journey into content writing began in my college dorm, crafting blog posts that blended humor with insightful commentary on current events, much like the engaging pieces Buzzfeed is known for. What stands out to me about Buzzfeed is its dedication to creating content that not only entertains but also informs and connects with a broad audience.

At RW Digital Agency, I led a series of viral marketing campaigns for our clients, achieving an average engagement increase of 70% across platforms. This role sharpened my ability to craft content that resonates with diverse online communities, a skill I am eager to bring to the Buzzfeed team. Furthermore, while working with Resume Worded's online magazine, I pioneered an interactive article series that boosted our site's monthly unique visitors by 30%. These experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of how to create compelling digital content that captures and retains audience attention.

I am thrilled at the prospect of contributing to Buzzfeed's vibrant content landscape, bringing with me a proven track record of creating engaging and share-worthy content. Your commitment to exploring innovative content formats and storytelling techniques is particularly inspiring to me, aligning perfectly with my passion for pushing the boundaries of digital content.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my creativity, experience, and passion for digital culture can contribute to the continued success and growth of Buzzfeed. I look forward to the possibility of joining your team and contributing to the exciting content that defines Buzzfeed.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Telling Your Story

Sharing the origin of your interest in the field can make your cover letter more personal and engaging. In this case, starting content writing in a college dorm gives a personal touch, while also showing alignment with Buzzfeed's content style.

Demonstrating Relevant Success

Discussing a successful project where you used skills relevant to the job you're applying for helps the employer see your potential. Here, leading viral marketing campaigns that increased engagement shows your ability to create resonating content.

Understanding Your Audience

Stressing your understanding of the target audience can be a game changer, particularly for a content writing job. Your experience with creating content that captures and retains audience attention could be exactly what Buzzfeed needs.

Passion for Innovation

Expressing your passion for the same innovative strategies the company uses, like exploring new content formats and storytelling techniques, shows that you're excited about the work and not just the job title.

Directly Tying Your Skills to Company Success

Directly tying your skills and experience to the success of the company can demonstrate how you will be a good fit for the role. Here, your creativity, experience, and passion for digital culture are presented as assets for Buzzfeed's growth.

Journalism Intern Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Journalism Intern position at The Denver Post. As an aspiring journalist with a passion for local news, I have long admired The Denver Post's commitment to in-depth reporting and its role in keeping the community informed.

As a Journalism major at the University of Colorado Boulder, I have gained practical experience that I believe would translate well to this internship. Last summer, I interned at Resume Worded, a local news station, where I had the opportunity to shadow reporters and assist with research for various stories. I also wrote several articles for the station's website, one of which was picked up by a national news outlet. Additionally, as a staff writer for my university's newspaper, I have covered a range of topics from campus events to city politics. These experiences have sharpened my reporting skills and given me a taste of the fast-paced world of journalism.

I am drawn to The Denver Post because of your reputation for mentoring young journalists and providing them with opportunities to take on substantive reporting assignments. I am eager to learn from your experienced team of reporters and editors and to contribute my own skills and enthusiasm to your newsroom.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and to learn more about how I could contribute to The Denver Post as a Journalism Intern.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Share your passion for local news

Expressing admiration for the company’s work in local news demonstrates a genuine interest and understanding of their impact on the community, vital for a journalism intern.

Detail your relevant experience

Talking about previous internships and what you learned there shows you have practical experience and are ready to contribute as a journalism intern.

Highlight the desire for mentorship

Stating your attraction to the company's reputation for mentoring indicates you're looking to grow professionally, which is what an internship is all about.

Thank the reader for their time

Acknowledging the time taken to read your application is a polite gesture that rounds off the cover letter nicely, keeping it professional.

Invite further discussion

Expressing openness to discuss your application further shows initiative and a proactive attitude, important traits for a journalism intern.

Journalism Intern Cover Letter Example

Dear Alex,

Growing up, I always looked forward to Sunday mornings when my dad would bring home the latest edition of the Chicago Tribune. We'd spend hours poring over the articles, discussing the stories that resonated with us. Those early experiences sparked my love for journalism – and my desire to one day see my own byline in the pages of a major newspaper. That's why I'm thrilled to apply for the Journalism Internship at the Chicago Tribune.

As a journalism student at Resume Worded University, I've worked hard to turn my passion into practical skills. I've written over 50 articles for the student newspaper, covering everything from campus events to city politics. I'm particularly proud of a series of articles I wrote about the university's lack of mental health resources. By combining powerful personal stories with hard-hitting data, the series generated a campus-wide conversation and ultimately led the administration to invest $500,000 in new mental health initiatives. I believe that's the power of great journalism.

I'm excited about the opportunity to learn from the talented journalists at the Chicago Tribune and contribute to the paper's proud tradition of impactful storytelling. Whether I'm chasing down a lead for a breaking news story or crafting a compelling human interest piece, I'm eager to dive in and get to work.

Thank you for considering my application for the Journalism Internship. I would welcome the chance to discuss further how I can contribute to the Chicago Tribune's mission of informing and empowering readers.

Best,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Connect personal history to professional aspirations

Sharing a personal story that links to your career choice makes your motivation clear and genuine. It helps me see why you're passionate about journalism.

Showcase your journalism experience

Detailing your hands-on experience, such as writing for a student newspaper, demonstrates that you have practical skills in the field. It's important to know you can apply your passion effectively.

Highlight impact of your work

Talking about how your work led to positive change shows you understand the power of journalism. It also tells me you're committed to making a real difference through your reporting.

Express eagerness to learn and contribute

Stating your excitement to learn from experienced peers and contribute to the publication's success shows your willingness to be a team player and your ambition to grow as a professional.

Gratitude and forward-looking sentiment

Ending with thanks and a desire to discuss your application further demonstrates professionalism and eagerness. It leaves a positive impression.

Journalism Intern Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Journalism Intern position at the Chicago Tribune. As a native Chicagoan and lifelong reader of the Tribune, I have always admired the paper's commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful journalism that informs and engages our diverse community. I believe my strong writing skills, curiosity, and passion for storytelling would enable me to make valuable contributions to your newsroom.

As a journalism student at Northwestern University, I have honed my ability to craft compelling narratives across a range of mediums, from print to digital to broadcast. Last semester, I wrote a feature story about a local nonprofit's innovative approach to combating food insecurity in underserved neighborhoods. Through extensive interviews and data analysis, I was able to shed light on a critical issue facing our city and highlight the impact of community-driven solutions. The article was published in the school newspaper and shared widely on social media, sparking important conversations about food access and equity.

I am particularly drawn to the Tribune's commitment to local journalism and giving voice to the diverse communities that make up our city. As an intern at the Evanston RoundTable, a hyperlocal news outlet, I covered everything from city council meetings to neighborhood festivals, developing a deep appreciation for the power of community-focused reporting to inform and engage citizens.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be thrilled to bring my skills, passion, and fresh perspective to the Tribune's newsroom and learn from some of the most talented journalists in the business.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Connect personally with the journalism intern role

Showing a personal connection to the Tribune and its mission demonstrates your long-term interest and commitment to the journalism field.

Demonstrate diverse storytelling skills

Highlighting your ability to navigate different media formats shows versatility and adaptability, key traits for a journalism intern.

Showcase impact through storytelling

Providing examples of how your stories have sparked conversations proves your capacity to create meaningful, impactful journalism.

Emphasize community reporting experience

Sharing your experience with community-focused reporting illustrates your understanding of local journalism's significance and impact.

Express eagerness to learn and contribute

Ending with an expression of gratitude and eagerness to learn shows humility and a genuine desire to grow in the journalism field.

Reporter Cover Letter Example

Dear Taylor,

When I was eight years old, I started my own neighborhood newspaper. Armed with a notebook and a pen, I'd go door-to-door, interviewing neighbors about everything from their favorite recipes to their thoughts on the latest city council meeting. That early love of storytelling has only grown stronger over the years – and it's what drives me to apply for the Reporter position at The Seattle Times.

As a recent graduate of Resume Worded University's journalism program, I've spent the past four years honing my skills as a reporter and writer. I served as a staff writer for the university's award-winning student newspaper, where I covered a wide range of stories – from a profile of a local business owner to an investigation into the school's handling of sexual assault cases. For the latter, I pored over hundreds of pages of public records and conducted dozens of interviews to uncover the truth. The resulting article prompted the university to overhaul its policies and won first place for in-depth reporting from the State Press Association.

I'm drawn to The Seattle Times' commitment to fearless, independent journalism that makes a difference in people's lives. I'm excited about the opportunity to be part of a newsroom that isn't afraid to tackle tough issues and hold the powerful accountable. Whether I'm digging into a data-driven investigation or crafting a poignant human interest story, I'm eager to contribute to that mission.

Thank you for considering my application for the Reporter position. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my skills and passion for storytelling can help advance The Seattle Times' important work.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Share unique early experiences with storytelling

Telling me about your childhood interest in storytelling and journalism is engaging. It makes your application memorable and shows long-standing dedication.

Emphasize education and practical skills

Mentioning your recent graduation and describing your role on the student newspaper highlights your updated knowledge and practical reporting skills, which are crucial for the job.

Illustrate the impact of your investigative work

Detailing how your investigative reporting led to significant changes highlights your ability to drive impactful journalism. It tells me you have the skills to uncover and report on important stories.

Align with the newsroom's values

Expressing excitement to join a team that values tough, impactful journalism shows that you've researched the company and understand its mission. It also indicates a good fit with their culture.

Professional courtesy and interest in further discussion

Concluding with thanks and openness to discussing how you can contribute signals professionalism and a proactive attitude towards collaboration and contribution.

Reporting Fellow Cover Letter Example

Dear Mr. Davis,

I am thrilled to apply for the Reporting Fellowship at The Texas Tribune. As a proud Texan and aspiring journalist, I have long admired the Tribune's commitment to delivering high-quality, nonpartisan reporting on the critical issues facing our state. I believe my strong writing skills, data analysis abilities, and passion for holding those in power accountable would enable me to thrive in this role and contribute to the Tribune's mission.

As a journalism student at the University of Texas at Austin, I have developed a keen eye for compelling stories and a knack for distilling complex issues into engaging, accessible prose. Last year, I worked on a data-driven investigation into the state's foster care system, analyzing thousands of pages of government documents and conducting dozens of interviews with stakeholders across Texas. The resulting three-part series, published in the UT News, shed light on systemic failures within the system and spurred legislative action to improve outcomes for foster youth.

I am particularly excited about the Tribune's focus on explanatory journalism and using innovative storytelling techniques to help readers understand the inner workings of state government. As an intern at the Daily Dot, a digital media company, I experimented with a range of multimedia formats, from data visualizations to interactive features, to bring complex stories to life in new and compelling ways. I believe this experience has prepared me to tackle the ambitious, high-impact projects that define the Tribune's reporting.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be honored to bring my skills, passion, and fresh perspective to the Tribune's newsroom and contribute to your mission of informing and engaging Texans on the issues that matter most.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Why This Cover Letter Works in 2024

Connect your background with the job

Start your cover letter by linking your personal story and professional aspirations with the employer's mission. This shows you're not just looking for any job, but you are passionate about this specific role as a reporting fellow.

Show your reporting skills

Tell us about your education and any relevant projects or experiences. It's good to hear about your skills in finding and telling important stories, especially in a way that the average person can understand. This is key for a reporting fellow who needs to make complex issues clear and engaging.

Highlight impactful work

When you talk about a significant project you've worked on, like an investigation that led to change, it tells us about your ability to produce work that matters. This is exactly what we're looking for in a reporting fellow—someone whose work can make a real difference.

Demonstrate versatility in storytelling

Explaining your experience with different formats and media shows you're innovative and adaptable. For a reporting fellow, being able to present stories in various engaging ways is critical to reach and impact a wide audience.

Express gratitude and eagerness to contribute

Closing your letter by thanking the reader and reiterating your desire to contribute to their mission adds a polite and humble end. It leaves a positive impression, emphasizing your interest in the role and your readiness to bring value as a reporting fellow.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

1
Growing up in a household where my parents cherished their morning ritual of sipping coffee while reading the latest headlines in The Washington Post, I knew from a young age that journalism held a special place in my heart. Today, I am excited to apply for the Entry-Level Journalist position at The Washington Post, where I can contribute to the powerful storytelling that has been an essential part of my life.
This introduction is compelling because it shares a personal connection and demonstrates a longstanding appreciation for the company's work, while also indicating the candidate's enthusiasm for the position.

2
As someone who has lived in various corners of the world, I have witnessed firsthand the power of well-reported news to connect people and shape societies. This is why I am thrilled to apply for the Entry-Level Journalist position at BBC News, an organization whose global reach and commitment to quality journalism have long been an inspiration to me.
This paragraph is strong because it highlights the candidate's unique global perspective while tying it to the company's mission and impact, which effectively emphasizes their shared values.

3
Having spent countless hours understanding and navigating complex issues as both a student and a volunteer, I have developed a keen ability to distill information and present it in a clear and engaging manner. I believe this skill would be well-utilized as an Entry-Level Journalist at ProPublica, a news organization that is lauded for its meticulous reporting and in-depth analysis.
This introduction stands out because it focuses on the candidate's ability to tackle complex subjects and present them in an accessible way, which is directly relevant to the job and aligns with the company's reputation.

4
Whenever I find myself discussing the latest captivating podcast series or captivating long-form article with friends, there is one name that consistently comes up: The Atlantic. As a voracious consumer of your content, it excites me to apply for the Entry-Level Journalist position at The Atlantic, where I have the opportunity to contribute to the thoughtful and engaging pieces that have consistently resonated with me.
This paragraph is effective because it demonstrates the candidate's genuine appreciation for the company's work, while subtly showcasing their own passion for the type of content that The Atlantic produces.

5
As a journalism major who has been actively involved in my college's radio station, I have developed a passion for audio storytelling and an appreciation for its power to captivate audiences. It is with great enthusiasm that I apply for the Entry-Level Journalist position at NPR, where I can contribute to the rich tradition of creating compelling stories that inform, educate, and entertain listeners across the country.
This introduction is strong because it highlights the candidate's specific interest in audio storytelling and connects it to the company's core competency, demonstrating a clear alignment between their passion and the job opportunity.



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