Journalist Resume Examples & Templates
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Journalist Resume Examples and Templates
Junior Journalist Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Effective use of quantification
You use numbers to show impact, like "250+ news items," "40+ in-depth features," and "60,000+ combined monthly article views." Those metrics make your output concrete and help hiring managers at ABC News see your productivity and audience reach.
Clear multimedia experience
Your resume highlights cross‑platform skills: you shot, edited and published videos, produced radio segments, and delivered a podcast project. That range matches the junior journalist role focused on multimedia reporting and shows you can handle video, audio and web workflows.
Relevant keywords and investigative work
You list investigative reporting, FOI requests, SEO and digital publishing, and you led an investigation that triggered an audit. Those items align closely with requirements for investigative features and audience engagement in Australian newsrooms.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Summary could be more targeted
Your intro reads well, but it stays general. Add one line about the beats you want to cover and a clear goal, such as growing digital engagement or producing long‑form investigations. That helps ABC News see your fit immediately.
Add specific tools and platforms
You list skills but not the tools you use. Add CMS names, video editors, analytics tools and social platforms, for example WordPress, Adobe Premiere, Final Cut, Google Analytics, and Twitter/X. That boosts ATS matches and shows technical readiness.
Improve formatting for ATS and portfolio access
Some job descriptions include HTML lists, which may confuse ATS. Use plain bullet points and add a clear portfolio link or samples section. Label your himalayas.app link as a portfolio and include 3–5 sample URLs to published work.
Journalist Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Impactful work experience with quantifiable results
The work experience section highlights measurable outcomes like a 40% increase in public engagement and policy reforms. Using action verbs such as 'exposed' and 'spearheaded' effectively demonstrates the candidate's ability to drive change, which aligns with the investigative nature of the Journalist role.
Strong alignment with investigative journalism keywords
Skills like 'Data-Driven Journalism' and 'Multimedia Storytelling' directly match the technical and creative demands of investigative reporting. Phrases like 'exposing financial fraud' and 'policy reforms' reinforce keyword relevance for ATS systems in media organizations.
Clear career progression and award recognition
The resume showcases a progression from Staff Journalist to Investigative Journalist, with an Emmy award for a documentary on voting rights. This progression and recognition validate the candidate's expertise in political/social issues, a key requirement for the target role.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lacks specific industry tools in skills section
While 'Data-Driven Journalism' is mentioned, there's no mention of specific tools like digital research platforms (e.g., LexisNexis) or social media analytics tools. Adding these would better align with modern journalism tech requirements.
Education section lacks relevant certifications
The M.A. in Journalism is strong, but there's no mention of industry certifications like Certified Journalist or digital literacy credentials. These would strengthen technical credibility for the Journalist role.
Summary could emphasize niche specialization
The summary states 'uncovering corruption' but doesn't explicitly position the candidate as an expert in political/social issues. Specifying focus areas like 'government accountability' would better align with the job's emphasis on those topics.
Senior Journalist Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong achievement-based experience section
The work experience highlights 3 national awards, 40% digital engagement growth, and impactful investigations. This aligns with NHK's need for proven investigative journalism results in political affairs.
Tailored industry skills
Skills like multilingual journalism (Japanese/English) and Adobe Creative Suite directly support NHK's international reporting needs and multimedia content production requirements.
Clear career progression
The resume shows a logical path from investigative reporter at Asahi Shimbun to senior role at NHK, demonstrating steady advancement in political journalism specialization.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Missing ATS-optimized keywords
Adding industry-specific terms like 'FOIA requests' or 'document analysis' would strengthen alignment with typical Senior Journalist job descriptions and improve ATS compatibility.
Education section too brief
Including specific coursework in political communication or media ethics from University of Tokyo would better demonstrate relevant academic foundation for political affairs journalism.
No portfolio link provided
Adding a 'Selected Work' section with links to major investigative pieces would give tangible evidence of journalism quality crucial for this senior-level position.
Lead Journalist Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong leadership experience
Leading a team of 8 journalists showcases your management skills, vital for a Journalist role. This demonstrates your ability to guide others while producing impactful stories, a key trait for the position.
Quantifiable achievements
You effectively use numbers, like a 30% increase in readership, to highlight your contributions. This is important for a Journalist, as it shows your work has tangible results that matter to the audience.
Relevant skills showcased
Your skills in Investigative Reporting and Multimedia Storytelling align perfectly with the Journalist role. These are essential for creating engaging content that resonates with readers.
Compelling summary statement
Your introduction clearly outlines your experience and passion for journalism. It sets a strong tone for the rest of the resume, making it clear you're a serious candidate for any Journalist position.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Lack of specific keywords
While your skills are strong, including more specific industry keywords can improve ATS compatibility. Consider adding terms like 'fact-checking' or 'data visualization' that are often sought after in Journalist roles.
Details on educational background
Your education section could benefit from more details. Briefly mentioning relevant projects or coursework related to journalism can enhance your profile and show your preparedness for the field.
Limited engagement metrics
While you mention increasing online followership, adding more metrics related to audience engagement would strengthen your experience. Highlighting specific impacts of your stories on community awareness or policy would be beneficial.
Missing professional affiliations
Including memberships in journalism organizations or relevant networks would strengthen your credibility. This shows your commitment to the profession and helps establish you as a well-rounded candidate.
Editor Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Clear quantification of impact
The work experience section includes measurable outcomes like a 35% increase in website traffic and a 60% reduction in content errors. These numbers directly showcase the candidate's ability to drive results, which is critical for an Editor role.
Strong industry-specific keywords
The skills section aligns with editorial requirements, listing 'Copyediting,' 'Fact-Checking,' and 'Multimedia Production.' These terms match common Editor job descriptions and improve ATS compatibility.
Relevant digital media focus
Experience with SEO-optimized content strategy and video news segments for Tencent's WeChat platform demonstrates expertise in modern editorial workflows. This aligns well with the target role's emphasis on digital content strategy.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Limited technical tool specificity
The skills section lacks specific software tools (e.g., Adobe InDesign, Final Cut Pro) mentioned in typical Editor job postings. Adding these would strengthen technical credibility and ATS performance.
Generic role descriptions
Descriptions like 'Managed editorial calendar for 500+ articles' don't specify platforms or team size. Including details about content management systems used or teams managed would add clarity for the Editor role.
Missing publication highlights
There's no section showcasing published works or multimedia projects. Including a 'Selected Work' section with links to notable articles or videos would let the candidate's editorial voice shine for this creative role.
Senior Editor Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong quantification in recent role
The Senior Editor role at The Economic Times includes measurable results like a 35% YoY traffic increase and 60% social media engagement boost. These metrics directly align with the target role's focus on digital content strategy and editorial leadership.
Clear team leadership demonstration
Managing 15 journalists and 8 editors with a 40% quality improvement showcases the leadership skills required for a senior editorial position. The structured team management experience matches the role's emphasis on editorial leadership.
Relevant industry keyword alignment
Skills like 'Content Strategy' and 'SEO Optimization' are explicitly listed, aligning with both digital publishing requirements and typical ATS scanning criteria for editorial leadership roles.
How could we improve this resume sample?
NDTV experience lacks quantification
The Deputy Editor role at NDTV mentions 200+ features but lacks metrics around reader impact or team efficiency improvements. Adding traffic figures or reader engagement metrics would strengthen this section.
Missing technical tool specifications
While 'Digital Publishing' is listed, specific CMS tools like WordPress or editorial software like Adobe InDesign aren't mentioned. Including these would better demonstrate technical capabilities for a modern editorial role.
Summary could better address digital focus
The intro paragraph mentions 'digital and print media' but doesn't emphasize digital platforms specifically. Highlighting expertise in digital-first content creation would better match the 'digital platforms' requirement in the job description.
Managing Editor Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Impactful work experience with quantifiable results
The work experience section highlights measurable achievements like 45% traffic growth and 25% user retention improvements. These stats directly align with Managing Editor responsibilities and demonstrate proven impact in digital content leadership.
Strategic leadership focus
Experience managing 25+ staff across 5 bureaus and implementing performance metrics shows strong organizational skills. The rebranding success and AI system implementation emphasize strategic decision-making critical for editorial leadership roles.
Relevant technical skills integration
Skills like SEO Optimization and Media Workflow Automation are key for modern Managing Editors. The inclusion of digital publishing expertise matches current industry demands and complements the candidate's editorial background.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Limited team development specifics
The resume shows team management but doesn't detail mentorship approaches or staff development initiatives. Adding examples of editorial training programs or conflict resolution strategies would strengthen leadership demonstration.
Generic skills section
Technical skills lack specific tools (e.g., CMS platforms like WordPress or editorial software like Adobe InDesign). Including these would improve ATS matching and show practical capabilities for digital media workflows.
Opportunities for stronger career narrative
The professional summary is strong but could better connect past roles to the target position. Adding a brief statement about editorial philosophy or unique approach to content strategy would create a more compelling personal brand.
Editor-in-Chief Resume Example and Template
What's this resume sample doing right?
Strong leadership achievements highlighted
The resume clearly demonstrates leadership impact with quantifiable results like 'Led 60-person team to win 3 National Publishing Awards' and '¥3.2 billion in annual revenue from digital subscriptions'. These metrics align directly with the editorial leadership and strategic vision required for an Editor-in-Chief role.
Relevant editorial skills emphasized
Skills like 'Content Strategy', 'Team Leadership', and 'Digital Publishing' match core competencies for the role. The inclusion of 'Japanese Media Law' also addresses niche requirements for editorial compliance in the Japanese market.
Clear career progression shown
The transition from Deputy Editor at Yomiuri Press to Editor-in-Chief at Asahi Media Group creates a logical career narrative. The 12+ years experience metric upfront reinforces credibility for the target position.
Digital transformation focus
Multiple achievements emphasize digital transformation ('print-to-digital migration', 'SEO optimization', 'digital subscription model'), which is critical for Editor-in-Chief roles in modern media organizations.
How could we improve this resume sample?
Education section could add relevance
The Master's in Journalism is strong but could be enhanced with specific courses or projects related to editorial leadership or digital strategy. This would better connect academic credentials to the Editor-in-Chief role.
More specific team leadership examples
While the resume mentions team sizes, it lacks details on specific editorial processes improved or innovative strategies implemented. Adding examples of editorial policy changes or mentorship programs would strengthen leadership claims.
Missing media platform specifics
There are no mentions of specific content management systems, editorial tools, or digital platforms used. Including tools like Adobe InDesign or WordPress would improve technical keyword alignment for ATS screening.
Location information could be optimized
Repeated 'Tokyo, Japan' locations are clear but could be reduced for visual polish. Consider using a dedicated 'Based in Tokyo, Japan' line in the header instead of repeating in each section.
1. How to write a Journalist resume
Breaking into journalism can feel daunting, especially when you're up against many applicants vying for the same position. How can you create a resume that truly captures your unique voice and skills? Hiring managers look for clear examples of your writing prowess and relevant achievements, not just a list of job titles. Many aspiring journalists mistakenly focus on generic phrases instead of showcasing their impact and storytelling abilities.
This guide will help you craft a resume that highlights your strengths and accomplishments in journalism. For instance, you'll learn to transform basic statements into compelling descriptions that demonstrate your contributions, like quantifying the readership growth you've achieved. We'll focus on key sections such as your summary and work experience to ensure your resume stands out. By the end, you'll have a polished resume that effectively communicates your professional journey.
Use the right format for a Journalist resume
When writing a resume for a journalist position, you’ve got a few format options to consider. The chronological format is often the best choice for those with a steady career progression, showing your work history clearly. You can also use a combination format if you have a varied background or are transitioning into journalism from another field. A functional format may be suitable for those with gaps in employment, but it’s less common in journalism. Make sure your resume has an ATS-friendly structure by keeping clear sections and avoiding columns, tables, or complex graphics.
Here’s a quick list of formats to consider:
- Chronological: Best for steady career progression.
- Combination: Ideal for diverse backgrounds.
- Functional: Useful for career changers or those with gaps.
Craft an impactful Journalist resume summary
Your resume summary or objective is your chance to make a strong first impression. For seasoned journalists, a summary is key, while entry-level candidates or career changers should use an objective. The summary formula is: '[Years of experience] + [Specialization] + [Key skills] + [Top achievement]'. This gives employers a snapshot of your background, skills, and what you can bring to their team.
When crafting your summary, make sure to highlight your writing experience, areas of expertise (like investigative reporting or digital content), and any notable achievements, such as awards or published articles. Tailoring this section to the job description can significantly enhance your chances of getting noticed.
Good resume summary example
Experienced journalist with over 5 years in investigative reporting, strong skills in multimedia storytelling, and recognized for the 'Best Investigative Piece' award at the National Press Club.
This works because it clearly states experience, specialization, skills, and a significant achievement, making it compelling for employers.
Bad resume summary example
Journalist looking for a position to utilize my skills in writing and reporting.
This fails because it lacks specific details about experience, skills, and achievements, making it less engaging for hiring managers.
Highlight your Journalist work experience
List your work experience in reverse-chronological order. Each entry should include your job title, the company name, and the dates you worked there. Start each bullet point with strong action verbs and focus on quantifiable achievements. For instance, instead of saying 'Responsible for writing articles,' say 'Increased readership by 30% through engaging articles on local events.' This gives potential employers a clear picture of your impact.
Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help structure your accomplishments effectively. Always aim to highlight the skills and experiences that align with the job description.
Good work experience example
- Developed and published over 50 engaging articles per month, increasing website traffic by 40% at Flatley-McLaughlin.
This works well as it includes an action verb, quantifiable impact, and a clear result, showcasing strong performance in the role.
Bad work experience example
- Wrote articles and covered events for Koepp LLC.
This fails because it lacks specific achievements or metrics, making it less impactful and memorable.
Present relevant education for a Journalist
When listing your education, include the school name, degree, and graduation year. For recent grads, keep this section more prominent and consider including relevant coursework or honors. If you have significant experience, this section can be less prominent. Don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, such as journalism or writing courses, either here or in a dedicated section.
Formatting your education clearly helps employers quickly see your qualifications. Aim for consistency in how you present information.
Good education example
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
University of California, 2021
This works because it’s concise and clearly presents the degree and institution, making it easy for employers to read.
Bad education example
Some college, no degree.
This fails because it lacks specificity and doesn't convey a sense of accomplishment or relevant qualifications.
Add essential skills for a Journalist resume
Technical skills for a Journalist resume
Soft skills for a Journalist resume
Include these powerful action words on your Journalist resume
Use these impactful action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities:
Add additional resume sections for a Journalist
Consider adding sections for relevant projects, certifications, publications, or awards that showcase your skills and achievements. These sections can enhance your resume by providing concrete examples of your work and accomplishments. For journalists, a portfolio link is also crucial, as it allows potential employers to see your writing style and expertise.
Good example
Projects: 'Investigative Report on Local Water Quality' - Conducted in-depth research and interviews, leading to policy changes by the city council.
This works well because it highlights a significant project with clear outcomes, demonstrating your impact as a journalist.
Bad example
Participated in some writing workshops.
This fails as it lacks detail and impact, making it less relevant to potential employers.
2. ATS-optimized resume examples for a Journalist
Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS, are tools that help employers sort through the many resumes they receive. For a journalist role, optimizing your resume for ATS is vital because these systems scan for keywords and relevant information. If your resume doesn't match what the ATS looks for, it might get rejected before a human even sees it.
To make sure your resume gets noticed, follow these best practices: use standard section titles like 'Work Experience' and 'Education.' Make sure to include keywords that relate to journalism, like 'investigative reporting,' 'content creation,' and specific software tools like 'Adobe InDesign' or 'WordPress.' Avoid fancy formatting such as tables, text boxes, or images because these can confuse the ATS. Stick to readable fonts, and save your resume as a PDF or .docx file.
Common mistakes people make include using synonyms instead of the exact words found in job descriptions. Also, relying on complex formatting can backfire if the ATS can't read your resume properly. Missing important keywords related to your skills or experience can prevent you from making it to the next stage. Here's a quick list of what to do:
- Use standard section headings
- Incorporate relevant keywords
- Avoid complex formatting
- Choose readable fonts
- Save in ATS-friendly file formats
ATS-compatible example
Skills: Investigative Reporting, Content Creation, Adobe InDesign, WordPress, AP Style Writing
Why this works: This section is clear and organized. It includes specific keywords related to journalism that ATS will recognize, making it more likely to pass through the system.
ATS-incompatible example
Expertise in Writing & Reporting: I have great skills in writing articles and conducting interviews to gather information.
Why this fails: This heading is non-standard and may confuse the ATS. The description lacks critical keywords like 'investigative reporting' or specific software, which makes it less likely to be recognized by the system.
3. How to format and design a Journalist resume
When you're crafting a journalist resume, choosing the right template is crucial. Opt for a clean, reverse-chronological layout. This layout highlights your most recent experience, making it easy for hiring managers to see your most relevant work first.
Keep your resume to one page if you're early in your career. If you have extensive experience, two pages can work, but be concise. Remember, it's all about showcasing your best work without overwhelming the reader.
Stick with professional, ATS-friendly fonts like Arial or Calibri in sizes 10-12pt for the body and 14-16pt for headers. Adequate white space is important, so don’t cram too much in. Simple formatting is best—avoid graphics and overly creative designs that can confuse both humans and ATS.
Common mistakes to watch out for include using complex templates that might confuse ATS, excessive color choices, and cluttered layouts that lack white space. Make sure your sections are clearly labeled with standard headings to enhance readability.
Well formatted example
Rodrick Schamberger
Journalist
Contact: rodschamberger@email.com
Experience:
- Senior Reporter at Wintheiser-Kuphal - 2021-Present
- Staff Writer at Haag-Ferry - 2019-2021
Education:
- B.A. in Journalism, University of Example
This clean layout ensures readability and is ATS-friendly.
Poorly formatted example
Luciano Fadel | Journalist | lucianofadel@email.com
Experience:
- Freelance Journalist
- 2018-Present - Intern at Mayer LLC
- 2017
Education:
B.A. in Communications, Example University
ATS may struggle to parse columns, and this layout reduces professional appearance.
4. Cover letter for a Journalist
A tailored cover letter is essential for a journalist role. It complements your resume by showcasing your unique voice and passion for storytelling. This is your chance to express genuine interest in the publication and highlight your most relevant experiences.
Your cover letter should include several key sections:
- Header: Include your contact information, the date, and the publication's or hiring manager's details if known.
- Opening Paragraph: Start strong by stating the specific Journalist position you're applying for. Share your enthusiasm for the publication and mention a compelling qualification or how you learned about the opening.
- Body Paragraphs: Connect your experience to the job requirements. Highlight key projects, relevant writing styles, and notable achievements. Tailor your content to the publication by using keywords from the job description.
- Closing Paragraph: Conclude by reiterating your interest in the role and your confidence in contributing to the team. Include a call to action, such as requesting an interview, and thank the reader for their time.
Maintain a professional and enthusiastic tone throughout. Customize the letter for each application to avoid sounding generic.
Sample a Journalist cover letter
Dear Hiring Team,
I am excited to apply for the Journalist position at The New York Times, as advertised on your careers page. With a strong background in investigative reporting and a passion for uncovering the truth, I am eager to contribute my skills to your esteemed publication.
In my previous role at The Chicago Tribune, I led a team that investigated local corruption, resulting in a series of articles that prompted a state audit and increased public awareness. This experience honed my ability to conduct thorough research and present complex information in an engaging manner. I am proficient in digital storytelling and social media, effectively reaching diverse audiences.
I am particularly drawn to The New York Times because of its commitment to quality journalism and its ability to shape public discourse. I am confident that my collaborative spirit and dedication to ethical reporting align perfectly with your values.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to The New York Times. Please feel free to contact me to arrange an interview.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
5. Mistakes to avoid when writing a Journalist resume
Creating a resume as a journalist can be tricky. You want to showcase your writing skills, experience, and unique voice. Avoiding common mistakes can help you stand out to potential employers.
Detail matters in journalism. A small error can make a big impression, so pay close attention to your resume's content and format.
Avoid vague job descriptions
Mistake Example: "Worked on various stories for the local newspaper."
Correction: Be specific about your contributions. Instead, write: "Reported and wrote 15 articles weekly covering local events, leading to a 20% increase in readership."
Don't use a generic resume
Mistake Example: "I am a hard-working individual looking for a writing position."
Correction: Tailor your resume for each application. For instance: "Passionate journalist with five years of experience in investigative reporting, seeking a position at The Daily News to uncover compelling stories."
Check for typos and grammar errors
Mistake Example: "I have an exstensive background in writing and editting articles."
Correction: Proofread your resume multiple times. A better version would be: "I have an extensive background in writing and editing articles, ensuring clarity and engagement for readers."
Overstate or understate your experience
Mistake Example: "I have covered national news extensively."
Correction: Be honest about your experience. Instead, say: "Covered local news stories, including city council meetings and community events, which sharpened my reporting skills and attention to detail."
Poor formatting for readability
Mistake Example: "Job Title: Writer, Newspaper XYZ, Responsibilities: Wrote articles, covered events, etc."
Correction: Use clear headings and bullet points. A better format would be:
- Job Title: Writer
- Company: Newspaper XYZ
- Responsibilities: Wrote articles, covered events, conducted interviews.
6. FAQs about Journalist resumes
Creating a resume for a journalist position involves showcasing your writing skills, relevant experiences, and unique voice. Here are some common questions and valuable tips to help you craft a compelling journalist resume.
What skills should I highlight in my journalist resume?
What skills should I highlight in my journalist resume?
Focus on strong writing, editing, and research skills. Mention your ability to meet deadlines, conduct interviews, and use various media formats. You might also want to include proficiency in digital tools like content management systems and social media platforms.
What's the best format for a journalist resume?
What's the best format for a journalist resume?
A reverse chronological format works best. Start with your most recent job, and highlight your experiences and achievements. Use clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
How long should my journalist resume be?
How long should my journalist resume be?
Keep it to one page, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience. Only extend to two pages if you have extensive relevant experience or multiple publications to showcase.
How can I showcase my writing samples?
How can I showcase my writing samples?
Include a link to your online portfolio or attach a few writing samples with your application. Highlight notable pieces that demonstrate your versatility, depth, and unique perspective as a journalist.
What should I do about employment gaps?
What should I do about employment gaps?
Be honest and address gaps briefly. Highlight any freelance work, volunteer positions, or relevant courses you took during that time. This shows your commitment to the field, even if you weren't employed full-time.
Pro Tips
Quantify Your Achievements
Whenever possible, use numbers to showcase your impact. For example, mention the number of articles published, readership growth, or awards received. This adds credibility and makes your achievements stand out.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Application
Customize your resume to fit the specific job you're applying for. Use keywords from the job description and highlight relevant experiences that align with the publication’s focus and audience.
Showcase Your Multimedia Skills
As journalism evolves, being skilled in multimedia is crucial. Highlight your experience with video, podcasts, or social media. Mention any tools you’ve used, like Adobe Premiere or Audacity.
Keep It Professional
Ensure your resume looks polished and professional. Use a clean layout, consistent fonts, and avoid overly flashy designs. Remember, clarity and professionalism are key in journalism.
7. Key takeaways for an outstanding Journalist resume
Crafting an effective journalist resume is key to landing your dream job. Here are some essential tips to help you shine:
- Use a clean, professional format that’s easy to read and ATS-friendly.
- Highlight relevant skills and experience that directly relate to journalism, like writing, editing, and investigative skills.
- Employ strong action verbs and quantify your achievements, such as 'Increased readership by 20% through engaging content.'
- Optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems by using job-relevant keywords naturally throughout your document.
By following these tips, you can create a resume that truly reflects your capabilities. Don't hesitate to explore resume building tools or templates to take the next step in your journalism career!
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