journalism cover letter examples

Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 journalist cover letters.

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

Table of contents

• Senior Journalist
• Data Journalist
• Investigative Reporter
• Multimedia Journalist
• Breaking News Reporter
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Journalist resume examples

Journalist Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, covering a range of topics.

Highlighting diverse topics covered in previous roles shows adaptability, a crucial skill for a journalist. It demonstrates that the candidate can handle various writing styles and subjects.

Multimedia storytelling skills

By mentioning the successful podcast series, the candidate showcases their ability to engage audiences through different mediums. This skill is highly valued in the ever-evolving world of journalism.

Excitement for the role

Expressing genuine excitement for the role and the opportunity to work with experienced colleagues shows that the candidate is not just applying to any company, but specifically to The New York Times.

Highlight your passion and how it began

It's compelling to mention how your interest in journalism originated. It illustrates a long-standing commitment and passion for your field. This narrative helps employers understand your motivation and makes you more relatable.

Showcase your contributions and their impacts

Brag a bit! Show off a project where you made a tangible difference. It's even better when you can quantify it. This gives a glimpse of what you can achieve at their organization.

Showcase your accomplishments with metrics and stories

It's not enough to say you're good at your job, you need to prove it. This cover letter does a great job of showing, not just telling. The candidate talks about an investigative series they led, which won an award and increased readership by 20%. This gives me a clear picture of their capabilities and the kind of value they can bring to our team.

Express genuine interest in the company's mission

It's clear that this candidate isn't just looking for any job, they're specifically interested in this role and our company. They've done their research and they understand what we value and strive for. This shows me that they're genuinely passionate and likely to be a committed and enthusiastic team member.

Align your skills with the company's needs

The candidate talks about their experience with digital platforms and how it aligns with our use of these platforms. This kind of alignment shows me that they're a good fit for our team and that they're likely to be able to contribute in meaningful ways from day one.

Express admiration for the company's values

This candidate highlights our reputation for fearless journalism and commitment to truth-telling as a key motivator in their desire to join our team. This tells me that they not only appreciate our values, but that they share them and will uphold them in their work. That's exactly what we're looking for in a team member.

Show your enthusiasm

Start your cover letter by sharing your genuine excitement for the job. This helps me see that you really want this position.

Connect skills with passion

Tell us how your abilities and your interest in the subject make you the right fit. It makes your application stronger.

Demonstrate impact through storytelling

Share a story where your work made a real difference. This shows the value you can bring to our team.

Highlight investigative achievements

Mention how your reporting led to concrete actions or results. It proves you can handle big stories.

Align with our values

Explain why our company's goals attract you. It shows you understand and share our mission.

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Share your early passion for journalism

Telling a personal story about your early journalism experience makes your cover letter memorable and shows your long-term commitment to the field. It's a good way to stand out.

Showcase your ability to find human stories

Detailing how you uncover human stories behind the headlines demonstrates your skills in creating engaging content that resonates with readers, which is valuable for any journalist.

Highlight your investigative journalism achievements

When you talk about leading investigations that had tangible outcomes, it shows you're not just reporting news but also making a difference. This is the kind of drive and integrity we value.

Emphasize your local knowledge and network

Mentioning your Colorado roots and local network suggests you bring valuable community insights and sources that could enhance our coverage. Local knowledge is a significant asset for a journalist.

End with a strong, forward-looking closing

Concluding your cover letter by looking forward to the possibility of contributing to our team shows you're not just seeking a job, but a place to bring your passion for storytelling. It's a great way to end your letter.

Show enthusiasm for the employer

It's good to start by sharing your admiration for the company. This shows you know what makes them unique and that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.

Demonstrate relevant experience

When you talk about your past work, especially how you've tackled complex topics, it helps me understand your skills. It's useful to see how you can make difficult subjects clear to everyone.

Highlight unique skills

Telling us about blending data with stories shows you have a special way of reporting. It's the kind of skill that can make our team better.

Express how you can contribute

It's important to say how you can add to our goals. Sharing your excitement to bring new ideas is a strong reason for us to consider you for the team.

Close with gratitude

Ending your letter by thanking us for the opportunity to apply is polite. It leaves a good impression and shows you're respectful.

Senior Journalist Cover Letter Example

Share a specific memorable experience.

Sharing a specific moment that solidified your career path, like covering your first city council meeting, makes your story more engaging. It shows you have a personal connection to your work, which can be a sign of passion and dedication.

Include major achievements and rewards

Did you win an award? Have your reporting recognized? Mention it. It’s a testament to the quality of your work and can set you apart from other candidates. It also indicates that you can handle high stakes, high profile projects.

Express genuine enthusiasm for the role

This is a great closing line. It shows you're genuinely excited about the opportunity to work with them. Expressing anticipation for a potential collaboration can make them more likely to want to meet you.

Connect with the company’s mission

Starting your letter by relating to our core values and content style helps show you're a good fit. It's great when applicants show they understand what we stand for.

Showcase notable achievements

When you share specific awards or recognitions, it highlights the impact of your work. It helps us see the quality and depth of your journalism.

Emphasize leadership and mentoring

Mentioning your experience with guiding others is valuable. It shows you're not just about your own success but also about lifting up the team.

Reiterate your passion for journalism

Telling us about your eagerness to push boundaries in journalism is inspiring. It suggests you're someone who wants to keep growing and innovating.

Thank them for considering you

Finishing your letter by thanking us shows good manners. It's a nice way to end your message and makes you stand out as a thoughtful candidate.

Data Journalist Cover Letter Example

Demonstrate your ability to leverage data for storytelling.

The candidate shares a specific example of how they used data to create an interactive online feature, resulting in a significant increase in reader engagement and recognition in the form of an award. This highlights their ability to use data in innovative and engaging ways, which is highly valued in a data journalist.

Show appreciation for the team's work

By highlighting a specific project that our team worked on and expressing admiration for it, the candidate shows that they're familiar with our work and appreciates the value of it. This not only shows that they've done their research, but also that they share our passion for data-driven journalism.

Highlight your commitment to accuracy

In data journalism, accuracy is paramount. The candidate emphasizes their dedication to accuracy and shares an example of a tool they developed to improve data verification. This tells me that they take accuracy seriously and have the technical skills to ensure it.

Express alignment with the company's spirit of innovation

By acknowledging our innovative spirit and expressing a desire to contribute to it, the candidate shows me that they're not just seeking a job, but a place where they can push boundaries and explore new ways of doing things. This aligns well with our company culture and suggests that they'd be a good fit for our team.

Investigative Reporter Cover Letter Example

Match mission with experience.

Draw a line between what we care about and what you've done. It shows you're a good match for us.

Showcase investigative results

Describe an investigation you led that had a big impact. This highlights your ability to tackle important issues.

Express motivation for social good

Explain why you're drawn to stories that help the vulnerable. It shows you have a heart for journalism that matters.

Illustrate your positive influence

Share how your work led to meaningful change. It demonstrates your potential to make a difference with us.

Convey eagerness to join the team

Let us know how much you want to be part of our group. A strong desire to join us can set you apart from others.

Show your investigative reporter passion

Telling a story about your deep-rooted interest in mystery and investigation helps me see your genuine enthusiasm for the field. It's good to know you're not just looking for any job, but you're driven by a true passion for investigative journalism.

Demonstrate your investigative skills

Explaining how you managed to trace a money trail and lead to actual indictments proves your ability to handle detailed work and achieve results. It's impressive when you can show, not just tell, your impact.

Showcase your impact as an investigative reporter

Winning awards and prompting legislative action demonstrates the real-world impact of your work. It tells me you're capable of not just doing the job, but excelling in ways that garner recognition and drive change.

Highlight your fit for the team

When you align your experience with our needs and values, it makes it easier for me to envision you as part of our team. Your familiarity with local politics is a bonus that could help you hit the ground running.

Express your eagerness to contribute

Your closing statement reinforces your interest in the role and shows you're not just looking for any job, but specifically the opportunity at The Seattle Times. It's good to feel a candidate's enthusiasm to join our ranks.

Show your admiration for the organization

When you express genuine respect for the company's work, it demonstrates that your values align with theirs. This is important in journalism, where the mission and ethics of the publication are critical.

Demonstrate your relevant experience

Talking about your background in uncovering significant stories shows that you have the skills needed for an investigative reporter role. It's not just about the years you've worked but the impact of your investigations that matters.

Highlight your commitment to ethical journalism

Stating your dedication to ethics and detail underlines your suitability for a role that demands integrity. It reassures the hiring manager of your principled approach to reporting.

Connect your skills with the company's mission

Your excitement to join their team, coupled with your confidence in your ability to contribute, shows that you're not just looking for any job. You want a role where you can make a real difference in investigative journalism.

End with a forward-looking statement

By thanking them and expressing eagerness for a discussion, you're politely asserting your interest in the position. It's a respectful way to close your letter, indicating your anticipation to contribute to their goals.

Multimedia Journalist Cover Letter Example

Show your enthusiasm for the multimedia journalist role.

Your excitement about applying shows me you're genuinely interested in working with us. This is important because passionate employees often bring great energy and ideas.

Highlight your multimedia storytelling skills

When you mention your storytelling skills and proficiency with multimedia platforms, it tells me you're a versatile journalist who can engage audiences across different media. This is crucial for a multimedia journalist role.

Demonstrate the impact of your journalism work

Describing how your documentary led to the creation of a task force shows you can produce work that has real-world impact. This is impressive and exactly what we're looking for.

Use social media achievements to show value

Telling me about your success with social media at KCRA, including specific growth and engagement metrics, proves you can effectively use these platforms to amplify our content and engage with the community.

Express how you can contribute to the team

By stating your desire to bring your skills and passion to our station, you make it clear you're ready to be a team player and contribute to our mission. This is a strong closing statement for your cover letter.

Breaking News Reporter Cover Letter Example

Share your breaking news passion.

Recalling the moment you fell in love with breaking news paints a vivid picture of your dedication to the field. It helps me understand what drives you and assures me of your commitment to the fast-paced nature of the job.

Illustrate your reporting speed and accuracy

Being able to write a comprehensive story under time pressure is crucial for a breaking news reporter. Your example shows you can handle the stress and deliver quality work quickly, which is exactly what we need.

Highlight your social media savvy

Using social media effectively to boost engagement and traffic is a valuable skill. Your ability to leverage it for breaking news demonstrates you're adept at modern journalism tactics, which is a strong plus.

Emphasize your connection to the community

Having ties to local communities and being bilingual are significant assets for a breaking news reporter in a diverse city. It suggests you can bring unique stories and perspectives that others might miss.

Convey your enthusiasm for the role

Your closing statement effectively communicates your eagerness to join the Miami Herald. It's always a good sign when a candidate is not just qualified but also genuinely excited about the opportunity.

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.

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5 Journalism Cover Letter Examples Written for 2024

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• Journalism Cover Letters By Experience
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• Write Your Journalism Cover Letter

You’re passionate about stories and providing accurate reports on the latest news. Publications will highly benefit from your research-driven and engaging writing style that brings articles and scripts to life.

Are your cover letter and complementary journalist resume ready to show why your writing skills are best for each publication’s needs?

You have the writing chops to create engaging content, so you probably just need a few pointers and guidelines to choose the right tone and skills as you create your cover letter . We’ll help you out with our journalism cover letter examples and cover letter generator that are consistently landing jobs at top media outlets.

Journalism Cover Letter Example

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Copy this text for your Journalism cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Austin, TX 78701 (123) 456-7890

December 12, 2023

Ethan Anderson Dell Technologies 123 Fictional Lane Austin, TX 78701

Dear Mr. Anderson:

I’m eager to work with Dell Technologies and revolutionize the social media manager role. My passion for audience engagement, understanding of digital trends, and proficiency in multiple content platforms will empower me to guide your team toward exceptional digital accomplishments.

While serving as a social media specialist at HostGator, my proficiency in social media analytics grew exponentially. Using Hootsuite and Google Analytics, I led a team of six in measuring, analyzing, and interpreting social data to optimize the performance of our social media posts. As a result, we increased user interaction by 37%, and website traffic from social platforms saw an 18% climb.

My tenure as a social media strategist at Gembah allowed me to harness Canva and Adobe Creative Suite to generate visually compelling content. Collaborating with the design team, I standardized the visual narrative across all social platforms, which led to a 29% boost in brand visibility and a 23% rise in the follower base in less than a year.

As a social media coordinator at Outdoor Voices, a clothing store in Austin, I capitalized on paid social media advertising strategies, employing Facebook Ad Manager and LinkedIn Campaign Manager. Our team’s campaigns saw increased conversion rates by 42% and decreased the cost per acquisition by 33%.

I’m confident that my deftness in understanding audience behavior, creating engaging content, analyzing performance metrics, and strategizing paid promotions will harmonize with Dell Technology’s social media strategy. Thank you for considering me.

Mateo Rodriguez

Enclosures: Resume Application letter Letter of recommendation Transcript of records

Why this cover letter works

• Taking Mateo’s lead, show that Hootsuite, Google Analytics, Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Facebook Ads, and LinkedIn Campaign Managers aren’t just software names for you. Describe how these tools were instrumental in your previous roles, whether they refined data analysis or performance optimization or aided visual content creation and ad management.

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Journalism Internship Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Journalism Internship cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Honolulu, HI 96801 (123) 456-7890

August 21, 2024

Leila Akbari Hawaii News Now 123 Fictional Lane Honolulu, HI 96801

Dear Ms. Akbari:

Given my robust background in information analysis and generating actionable insights, I am keen to contribute to the team at Hawaii News Now as a newsroom intern. My experience in data management and teamwork across diverse groups has fine-tuned my ability to support news production processes, ensuring the delivery of accurate and timely updates. I’m prepared to leverage my skills in research, content creation, and other essential newsroom duties to elevate the station’s coverage.

During my tenure at KHON2, I enhanced newsroom efficiency by implementing iNews, which markedly reduced weekly processing time from 17 to 11 hours. My expertise in Adobe Premiere Pro allowed for improved multimedia content production, and in my leadership capacity at HI Now, I spearheaded the creation of viral content and implemented SEO strategies, significantly increasing web traffic. Plus, experiences with digital tools like Audacity and WordPress have prepared me to generate and update compelling news stories across various platforms.

As a news reporter at KIKU in Hawaii, I managed live broadcasts, conducted field reporting, and oversaw social media strategy via Hootsuite. These responsibilities honed my writing, editing, and communication skills while emphasizing the importance of meeting rigorous deadlines—proficiencies I’m eager to bring to Hawaii News Now. My experience analyzing Nielsen ratings refined my analytical capabilities, guiding strategic content decisions that enhanced viewer engagement by 13% within six months.

I’m enthusiastic about contributing to your newsroom team by assisting in live broadcasts, script production, and administrative tasks. Additionally, the opportunity to participate in editorial briefings and training sessions resonates strongly with my ambition to continue enhancing my journalistic skills. I’m eager to explore how my background and abilities can be leveraged to further Hawaii News Now’s mission to provide comprehensive, accurate, and timely news coverage and uphold high standards of journalistic integrity.

Zoe Fischer

Enclosures Resume Transcript 2 letters of recommendation

• Now, when penning that journalism internship cover letter, take it as your stage to flaunt your familiarity with industry-relevant software. Perhaps, highlight how you’ve used Adobe Premiere Pro to craft killer content or how, with Audacity and WordPress in your toolkit, you’re equipped to churn out and polish up those compelling stories.

Broadcast Journalism Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Broadcast Journalism cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Boise, ID 83702 (123) 456-7890

Harper Liu KTVB 7 123 Fictional Lane Boise, ID 83702

Dear Ms. Liu:

My core strength lies in delivering impactful news that not only connects with viewers but also upholds the highest journalistic standards. With a solid background in broadcast journalism gleaned from roles at KBOI, Idaho Press, and Idaho Public Television, my experience is perfectly tailored to the dynamic and engaging news coverage that Idahoans appreciate. My proven live broadcasting and multimedia content creation expertise equip me to substantially contribute as a news anchor at KTVB 7, embodying and celebrating Idaho’s vibrant and unique spirit.

While at KBOI, implementing the iNews system incredibly boosted newsroom efficiency, which culminated in reduced production times and enhanced workflows. My expertise in multimedia content production, utilizing tools like Final Cut Pro and Avid Media Composer, surged viewership by 34% and audience engagement metrics by 47%.

Idaho Press provided an opportunity to spearhead viral video production and live streaming, driving a 44% surge in website traffic. I demonstrated proficiency with DSLR cameras and Facebook Live, facilitating a 39% growth in viewer retention. These achievements have sharpened my skills in delivering precise and influential news content, which I’ll carry forward to my role at KTVB 7.

A brief stint at Idaho Public Television refined my live reporting skills and ensured I maintained high broadcast standards. Leveraging tools such as PromptSmart for teleprompting and managing social media presence through Hootsuite, I contributed to a significant 22% uptick in audience retention. My focus on data and performance metrics was critical for tailoring content strategies that effectively heightened viewer engagement and satisfaction.

With a Bachelor of Media Arts degree from Boise State University and deeply committed to journalistic integrity, my immediate priority is to make a meaningful impact at KTVB 7. I invite you to connect with me at your earliest convenience for a deeper conversation about how my background and enthusiasm for news broadcasting can be a valuable addition to your team. Thank you for considering my application.

Enclosures: Resume Transcript 2 letters of recommendation

• A 4 or 5-paragraph cover letter spanning no more than a page is more than enough for a compelling narration of your career. The trick? Cut to the chase, use active (as opposed to passive) voice, do away with redundant and filler phrases like I think that… and steer clear of big words. It’s about sharpening your message.

Journalist Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Journalist cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32201 (123) 456-7890

Mia Thomas WJXT Channel 4 123 Fictional Lane Jacksonville, FL 32201

Dear Ms. Thomas:

Having seen the impact WJXT Channel 4’s reporting makes in Jacksonville, I felt instantly drawn to your open journalist position. Your news coverage doesn’t just inform; it tells stories that resonate with a diverse audience. As your journalist, I aim to bring engaging stories from our communities, accentuated by meticulous research and vivid multimedia support.

At Jacksonville’s own WJCT Public Media, I led a news podcasting initiative leveraging both my deep local knowledge and technical skills. With listenership growing by 32% under my stewardship, I ensured the content was not only interesting but also well-researched using powerful database tools like LexisNexis. This fostered a spike in listener engagement, with average episode dwell time increasing by about 17 minutes.

I diversified communication channels at W291CI as the social media executive, managing the company’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram profiles. By curating content, scheduling posts through Hootsuite, and analyzing performance metrics, engagement rates improved by 42%. More so, our followers grew by over a third, reaching 23k from 17k within two years.

While working at WAWS-MyTVJax, I also honed my video editing prowess, using Adobe Premiere Pro. My creative yet factual storytelling style was instrumental in raising viewer retention by 34% and growing our late-night segment viewership by 26%. Paired with my social media management skills, digital engagement on shared video content went up by an impressive 41%.

Believing firmly in the power of journalism to enlighten and unify communities, I’m particularly drawn to WJXT Channel 4’s commitment to comprehensive and responsible reporting. I cannot overstate how excited I would be to join your team and contribute to your already renowned storytelling culture. I look forward to further discussing how my skills, experiences, and tireless enthusiasm for journalism can be an asset to your esteemed channel.

Zara Jafari

• For example, If the hiring company’s news coverage has left an impact on you, do share that you’re looking forward to contributing to their commendable work quality.

Reporter Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Reporter cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue San Francisco, CA 94101 (123) 456-7890

Harper White San Francisco Examiner 123 Fictional Lane San Francisco, CA 94101

Dear Ms. White:

My first encounter with the San Francisco Examiner was on a school field trip amidst observers at the iconic tech boom in the city. As I witnessed its on-the-pulse journalism first-hand, I quietly committed to one day becoming a contributor to your institution. That aspiration brings me here today as I express my interest in the reporter position at the San Francisco Examiner.

Podcasting has been my primary domain for the past three years at Jives Media, a thriving San Franciscan media company. I’ve turned mere static news stories into engaging, immersive experiences, successfully increasing our podcasts’ average listener duration by 37%. I’m adept at using Anchor, a Spotify-owned podcasting tool, enabling me to manage, distribute, and monetize our podcast content, leading to a 22% revenue increase.

At SWAYE, I harnessed the power of mobile journalism to bring news to audiences in real time. There, I produced more than nine live streams weekly, which improved the reach of news articles by 33%. Additionally, my expertise in live reporting and streaming saw me delivering breaking news with superior efficiency, surging our viewership by 28%.

A believer in the power of immersive storytelling, I embraced virtual reality (VR) reporting at Emergent VR, a pioneering VR startup. Using Unity, I created immersive journalistic experiences that led to a remarkable increase in our user engagement. This approach, I believe, will deeply resonate with the Examiner’s forward-thinking audience.

I’m eager to inject my diverse abilities and ground-breaking techniques into the San Francisco Examiner’s journalistic endeavors. My vibrant career has been driven by my overarching goal to innovate, engage, and inform. Looking forward to potentially discussing how I can contribute to the Examiner’s mission in an interview. Thank you.

Emilia Schmidt

• In this case, Emilia recounts a field trip to the San Francisco Examiner that exposed her to the mesmerizing world of real-time journalism. Alternatively, talk about an enthralling experience with the company’s software or equipment.

Related cover letter examples

• Journalist resume
• Social media manager

How to Format a Journalism Cover Letter

Writing your cover letter is like adding the right details to a news story to grab a target audience’s attention. 

In this case, it involves reviewing the job description to get an idea of each company’s needs so you can include the right skills and connections to their mission. For example, you could write about how you’ll use your interviewing skills to gather industry-leading details for a cutting-edge news outlet.

Journalism cover letter introduction

In journalism, the introduction is crucial to grab a reader’s attention. It works the same way in a cover letter. Ideally, you want to tailor it to the hiring manager by using your research skills to find the name of a contact person in the job description or on the company’s website to provide a personalized touch. 

Then, optimize your opening paragraph by connecting the top skills needed by each publication and how you’ll help achieve their mission. For example, you could include how you’ll use your data analysis skills to help a publication uphold its accuracy and integrity in the reporting space. 

The opener below gets off to a decent start. However, it could use extra details about the applicant’s specific journalism skills and how they connect with the company they’re applying to.

Not quite enough detail here! 

Upon coming across your publication’s journalism job opening, I was immediately eager to apply since this looks like a great company to work for. With tons of writing experience, I believe my skills will be an asset to your team.  

Instead, aim for an opener like the one below that shows the applicant’s passion for the impact WIXT Channel 4’s reporting makes and how their research and multimedia abilities fit in. 

A top-notch opener with relevant journalism skills! 

Dear Mr. Thomas,

Having seen the impact WIXT Channel 4’s reporting makes in Jacksonville, I felt instantly drawn to your open journalist position. Your news coverage doesn’t just inform; it tells stories that resonate with a diverse audience. As your journalist, I aim to bring engaging stories from our communities, accentuated by meticulous research and vivid multimedia support.

Journalism cover letter body

The body of your journalism cover letter is similar to the one in an article. You need facts and figures to back up your claims. In this case, it’s metrics and examples based on previous journalistic achievements. 

For example, you could write about how you optimized introductions to boost reader retention rates or applied a new data review model to boost reporting accuracy. 

If you don’t have much work experience , you can also add achievements from obtaining a journalism degree or transferable experiences like working on a school newspaper.

A great body paragraph with journalistic achievements!

At SWAYE, I harnessed the power of mobile journalism to bring news to audiences in real-time. There, I produced more than nine live streams weekly, which improved the reach of news articles by 33%. Additionally, my expertise in live reporting and streaming saw me delivering breaking news with superior efficiency, surging our viewership by 28%.

Journalism cover letter closing

Just as every article should have a conclusion that wraps up your key points, so should your journalism cover letter. This involves rephrasing your top skills and connection to the publication’s mission. For example, you could write about how you’re eager to use your social media skills to present up-to-date news to a broader audience.  

Then, wrap things up by saying thank you and using a call to action, such as “I’m excited to discuss this journalism role with you further.” It’s similar to ending a thought leadership piece where you want the reader to take a specific action. 

The closer below could use some work since it’s missing a call to action or any connection to the news outlet’s mission or the journalism skills they’re seeking.

Add more detail than this! 

I believe my skills will be a great fit for your news outlet’s needs. Thank you for considering me for the journalism role. 

Donna Mason

Instead, aim for a closer like the one below that showcases a great overview of the skills in content creation, performance metrics, and paid promotions that Dell Technology is seeking. 

A high-performing closer based on company needs! 

I’m confident that my deftness in understanding audience behavior, creating engaging content, analyzing performance metrics, and strategizing paid promotions will harmonize with Dell Technology’s social media strategy. Thank you for considering me.

The best way to optimize your tone will be to match the one used in the job description . It’ll help showcase how your writing style aligns with each publication’s culture and audience. 

One page will work best for your journalism cover letter. It’s similar to news stories where you want to include relevant information but keep it concise with the most essential details. In this case, it would be the skills needed for each role, such as editorial research or storytelling. 

Sometimes, media outlets and publications won’t have a hiring manager listed anywhere. So, simply using “Dear [name of company] hiring team” will still work well. Then, make the rest of your cover letter highly specific to the broadcasting and reporting skills they’re seeking. 

Journalist Cover Letter Example

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Start your journalist cover letter by addressing the hiring manager directly, if possible. Then, introduce yourself and briefly mention the position you're applying for. For example, "Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I am a seasoned journalist with over five years of experience in investigative reporting, and I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company's Name]." This approach is professional and immediately communicates your interest in the role. Follow this with a compelling hook that highlights your most relevant achievements or experiences. This could be a significant story you've covered, an award you've won, or a unique skill you possess. This will grab the reader's attention and make them want to learn more about you.

The best way for journalists to end a cover letter is by expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity and a desire for further discussion. This can be done by saying something like, "I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further." It's also important to thank the reader for their time and consideration. This shows respect and appreciation. Lastly, sign off professionally with "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name. This ending strikes a balance between professionalism and eagerness, which is crucial in the journalism field.

In a cover letter, journalists should include the following: 1. Contact Information: At the top of the letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. If you have a professional website or online portfolio, include that as well. 2. Salutation: Address the letter to a specific person if possible. If you can't find a specific name, use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager." 3. Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting. 4. Body: This is where you sell yourself. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. As a journalist, you might want to discuss your ability to research and write stories, meet deadlines, and work under pressure. If you have any specializations (like investigative journalism or political reporting), mention them here. 5. Examples of Work: Provide examples of your work that demonstrate your skills. If you're applying for a print journalism job, for example, you might mention articles you've written that were particularly well-received. If you're applying for a broadcast journalism job, you could discuss a news segment you produced. 6. Knowledge about the Company: Show that you've done your homework. Mention something specific about the company or publication that you admire and explain how you could contribute to it. 7. Closing: In your closing paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the potential job opportunity. Thank the reader for their time and consideration. 8. Signature: End with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best," followed by your name. Remember, a cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression. It should be well-written, free of errors, and tailored to the specific job and company you're applying to.

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Journalism cover letter example

They say a journalist is a machine that converts coffee into copy. The hours are long, the pay is low, but the satisfaction is eternal. Notice that the Justice Department didn’t bring down Richard Nixon — the Washington Post did. 

Journalists write the first draft of history. They keep us informed, entertained and outraged. They are educated, intelligent, witty and nosy — they’re in the business of asking questions that are none of their business. They have long memories, short fuses, and a low tolerance for lies.

Journalism has undergone changes like few other professions, from the ink-stained wretches of the 19th century to the radio reporters of World War II to the network stars of CNN to the self-appointed blogger outing bad behavior on his block in the 2020s.

The advent of the internet sent print journalism into a tailspin not long after the year 2000. In the two decades since then, newspapers have seen massive layoffs, huge cutbacks and dizzying consolidations, and some have closed forever as the masses turned to online news sources. Broadcast news remains viable, but the days when you had to wait until 6 p.m. to find out what was going on in the world are forever gone.

Journalism in the 21st century is more democratic than ever — anyone can become a journalist, depending on how you define the word. Yet “old-school” journalists interested in the time-honored tradition of cultivating sources, reporting stories, pursuing investigations, and publishing or broadcasting the news should take heart from the fact that there are more venues, channels and platforms available to them than ever before. 

Did you ever see a news website that had no use for writers , editors, photographers, videographers, designers or artists? That website would be a totally blank page. The delivery vehicles have changed, but the need for content creators is greater than ever.

Which brings us to our current topic — how to get a job in journalism. In the old days, you might get your start by being a “copy boy.” Nowadays, you’re going to need a resume and a cover letter. 

You’ve come to the right place. Resume.io is a leading global provider of cover letter templates, online tools, as well as professional, occupation-specific cover letter examples to prepare them. And yes, many of our writers are (or used to be) stone-cold journalists.

For guidance on how to prepare your resume, consult our all-purpose guide on “How to write a resume.” But you’re going to need a proper journalism cover letter to go with it, and that’s what this article is about. The journalism cover letter example at the top provides a useful model.

What we’ll address here:

Why a journalist needs a cover letter

• How to structure your cover letter
• How to design an irresistible cover letter
• How to write a persuasive cover letter

Common mistakes to avoid

Let’s fire up the coffee pot and get started.

Most good journalists are good writers, even if they work as photographers, artists, designers or online producers. It’s rare to excel at anything in journalism without being a good writer, and we’re going to assume that’s what you are.

So you need to showcase your writing skills — and when applying for a job, there’s no better way to do that than in a cover letter. 

To be brutal, it would be insane to apply for a journalism job without a cover letter. It would be like entering a cake-baking competition without a cake. 

For a journalist, a cover letter literally demonstrates your skills at doing your job — being personable, making connections, telling stories, drawing conclusions, changing minds. It’s like a mathematician being asked to write an equation, or a chef to prepare a dish — it’s precisely what you do best. 

Even if you want to be a dog groomer, you need a cover letter — you can’t just demonstrate your skills by sending the employer a dog you groomed. But in journalism, you can and you must demonstrate your skills by sending a well-written, well-argued, well-designed cover letter proving from the get-go that you’re good at what you do. 

A recent survey of hiring managers found that one of the top reasons job applicants were ignored — in all fields — was their failure to include a cover letter. It’s an expected part of any job application, and if you don’t include one, you’re shooting yourself in the foot.

Best format for a journalism cover letter

If you’re a print reporter, you know the importance of structure — the lede, the nut graf, the body, the kicker. They say news stories are made up of notes, quotes and anecdotes, but they’re organized according to a coherent structure. 

Good journalism cover letters don’t happen by accident — they are deliberately structured to deliver the desired results. Follow this cover letter structure to make sure your story doesn’t lose its way:

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting.

• Introduction
• Body of the letter
• Conclusion and call to action

This cover letter example for a journalism application will give you a starting point for your own letter:

Dear Mr. Hatherley,

Receiving my Story of the Year award from Dawson Heckham at the Sports News Awards made me understand just how much impact our words have on the soccer industry and its fan base. People love discussing sports, but they equally love reading an opinion and thinking through how their thoughts might differ.

Sports journalists help fans to relive those moments of magic through the medium of words, and with an average of 47.5m annual views of my articles, I hope that my six years at Soccer Media made an impact. A Senior Reporter position at a national publication would allow me to bring my unprecedented player and coach insights to a wider audience.

As a former academy soccer player and top college draft pick (while studying for a journalism degree), many of the biggest players have been my peers. My close relationships give me access to the stories behind what happens on the pitch. Anyone can understand that a goal is scored, but I explore the emotions behind the goals. I have broken some of the biggest soccer stories from the past years:

• Five exclusives exploring the development and player transfers of Miami United.
• Lead reporter for the soccer draft from 2017-2019, interviewing the future stars.
• My international expose around the agent bribery scandal won story of the year.

Prior to my journalism career, I worked for a leading MLS club as an assistant in their PR department for two years, running their blog as well as coordinating their press relations. I was one of the first in the industry to cultivate a successful social media presence.

I enclose a portfolio of my most popular articles for your interest and would welcome the opportunity to share my passion for the sport of soccer.

Travis Jenner

The top of your page must contain a header with your name, profession, address, phone and email. Omitting this info would be like printing a blank business card — nobody is ever going to know who you are, what you do or how to reach you.

Journalists understand the importance of good design, and that’s the second function of the header. When done right, it’s an attractive design element that makes the letter look good at a glance, before anyone has read the first word. This might mean a splash of color and/or creative use of typography, layout and white space. It should give the page an eye-pleasing look at arm’s length, prompting the reader to want to look closer.

Take a look at some of the free cover letter templates at resume.io to get an idea of what well-designed headers look like. Download one of these, enter your personal info, and you can save yourself a lot of trouble trying to design your own header.

Give your resume and cover letter a matching look

Your resume and cover letter should use the same fonts and formatting styles, and colors if any, so that’s it’s obvious they were designed by the same person and were meant to go together. 

This gives you a “visual brand” and shows that you pay attention to detail, you understand the importance of coherent design, and you aren’t just randomly experimenting with new fonts and styles. It also makes the hiring manager associate a certain visual style with your name.

“Dear John” is perhaps the most famous letter greeting ever, suggesting an imminent breakup, but yours can open the way to happier endings. “Dear Mr. X:” or “Dear Ms. Z:” are the traditional ways to open any business correspondence, including a journalism cover letter, and you should generally follow this format unless you have a good reason not to.

One thing is for sure: If your cover letter starts off with “Dear New York Times,” you are doomed. Whether you’re a film reviewer, an Africa correspondent or a digital graphics guru, you’re dead in the water if you haven’t even bothered to figure out which department to address your letter to, let alone who heads it. 

Do everything in your power to find out who makes the hiring decisions for the job you want, and address your letter to that person. If no names are listed in the job post you’re responding to, use your superpowers as a journalist to find out. If web sleuthing fails, try the old-fashioned telephone — just call and ask.

Cover letter introduction

It’s time to write your lede, which is the most important part of any story because it comes first. Every day, millions of people scan news stories in print and online deciding whether to read them by glancing only at the first paragraph. If it grabs them, you’re in; if it doesn’t, they’ll move on.

You may need to devote more effort to your first paragraph than to the rest of the letter combined. Every good story needs a strong beginning, middle and end. If you’re only good at the middle and the end, you’re in trouble, because nobody will get past the beginning.

Do not open by saying “I’m writing this letter…” — the reader already knows you’re writing this letter. Do not say, “Please consider this letter my application for…” — just start writing the letter. Use active, provocative, interesting language that makes the reader want to keep reading. 

Here’s an example of a journalist cover letter intro that really grabs attention:

Cover letter body

The best anecdotal lede fizzles out if you don’t get to the meat of the story soon. Some editors insist on a “nut graf,” one paragraph that describes the story in a nutshell, before it jumps to an inside page. 

The same is true of a journalism cover letter — once you’ve hooked the reader, you need to get down to business pretty fast. Think of USA Today, where most stories that begin on the front page have to end there too. 

In most cases, a cover letter should be a maximum of 400 words, contained to one page, and that requires extreme brevity. 

In the body of your letter, the central two or three paragraphs, you must present the “nutshell” of your case — why your experience, skills and passions make you the ideal candidate for this job. 

Experience is always key, so you must describe what you have done in this field to prove your chops. Don’t just describe where you worked or for how long, but tell stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them. Be specific, using facts and figures wherever possible.

Sports journalists help fans to relive those moments of magic through the medium of words, and with an average of 47.5m annual views of my articles, I hope that my six years at Soccer Media made an impact. A Senior Reporter position at a national publication would allow me to bring my unprecedented player and coach insights to a wider audience. 

Cover letter conclusion

You want to end with a bang, not a whimper. You might offer a brief recap of what you’ve already said, and you might thank the reader for his or her time, but you must propose some kind of call to action. This can be as simple as saying that you’re looking forward to a response, or that you would be delighted to talk further about the skills you could bring to the table for the employer you’re targeting. 

End on a confident (but not arrogant) note, looking forward to continuing the conversation you’ve started. 

Cover letter sign-off

Close with a simple “Sincerely,” “All my best,” “Best regards,” or whatever sounds right, and then type your full name below that.

To see all of these structural elements in an actual one-page letter, take a look at the journalism cover letter sample above.

Cover letter for a journalist with no experience

A cover letter for a journalist with no experience requires a slightly different approach. It’s a tougher sell, but everyone has to start somewhere. If nobody could ever get a job without experience, then nobody on earth would have a job. 

To write a cover letter if you’re a journalist with no experience, emphasize any credentials you have that are relevant. Include links to stories/photos/artwork you’ve produced, even if you were unpaid. Accentuate your successes, no matter how modest. Focus on your education more than your experience. Talk about your passion for journalism, even if your credentials are slim, and sell yourself with your writing skills.

If you’re still in school, or you’re looking to change careers to go into journalism, simply say so. Remember that once upon a time, the editor you’re writing to had no experience either.

How to write a persuasive journalism cover letter

No journalist succeeds by writing something that nobody wants to read, and the same is true of writing a cover letter for journalism. You have to find your target audience, and in this case your target is a hiring manager looking to hire a reliable professional.

So you have to try to get inside this person’s head a bit. What are editors looking for? They’re looking for professional, competent journalists who can consistently deliver newsworthy stories. They’re not looking for self-important prima donnas who think they’re God’s gift to journalism. You need the editor to like you and to want to work with you. Nobody wants to hire somebody they don’t like.

So, not unlike a reporter working your sources, you need to try to fit in, to walk and talk like the people you’re trying to influence. You need to use a little psychology to “read the mind” of the people whose help you need, and to demonstrate that you belong in their world. A cops reporter we know once agreed to be tased in the middle of a police station, on video, with all the cops gleefully watching, and he was their hero from that day forward. 

Always remember that in a cover letter for journalism, you’re not trying to explain to anyone what you need or what you want. You’re trying to convince editors that they need you (or at least that they would benefit greatly from you on their team). 

If you look at the journalism cover letter sample above, you’ll see that the author is neither demanding a job nor begging for one, but demonstrating that he offers value to the news organization he seeks to represent. 

According to the great newsman Joseph Pulitzer, the three biggest imperatives in journalism are “accuracy, accuracy, accuracy!” Here are some mistakes you can’t afford to make:

• Typos, misspellings, bad grammar and other writing errors. Simple English mistakes in a one-page journalism cover letter can be instant disqualifiers.
• Cover letter clichés and lazy language. If you use trite, hackneyed phrases, like saying you “think outside the box,” this proves the exact opposite — that you are not an original thinker and that you just borrow your ideas from others.
• Copy-paste letters sent to all: Every journalism cover letter should be unique and tailored to a specific employer, discussing its specific needs.
• Terrible design: If your cover letter for journalism looks awful at a glance, with ugly fonts too small to read, tiny margins or other design flaws, few editors will take you seriously.

Key takeaways

• Journalists play a key role in informing, persuading and entertaining the public, and despite the massive upheaval in this sector in recent years, the world will always need journalists.
• For journalists seeking jobs, a well-written, well-designed resume and cover letter are an essential part of any job application.
• Like a well-structured story, a good journalism cover letter adheres to a well-designed framework.
• To write a successful application letter for a journalism position, you need to get inside the mind of the editor and deliver what that person wants to read, not just what you want to write.

You can avoid a multitude of errors by starting with a cover letter sample from resume.io, using a pre-formatted, pre-designed template where the structure and design are already done. All that’s left for you to do is to write the letter.

Here are other creative cover letters to inspire you:

• Freelancer cover letter sample
• Writer cover letter sample
• Public relations cover letter sample
• Social media manager cover letter sample

Free professionally designed templates

8 Professional Journalist Cover Letter Examples for 2024

In your journalist cover letter, showcase your ability to tell a story compellingly. Highlight your knack for uncovering the truth and connecting with readers. Demonstrate your versatility across different media platforms. Your cover letter should also reflect your understanding of the ever-evolving journalistic landscape.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Student Journalist

News Director

Sports Journalist

Magazine Journalist

Broadcast Journalist

Multimedia Journalist

Fashion Journalist

Cover letter guide.

Journalist Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Journalist Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Crafting a journalist cover letter can be a daunting step in the job application process. You've meticulously updated your resume and now realize a cover letter is required—one that doesn't just mimic your resume, but spotlights your proudest journalistic triumph through an engaging narrative. Striking a balance between formality and originality, avoiding clichés, and condensing your story into a single page adds to the challenge. Let's navigate these hurdles together and pen a cover letter that stands out.

• Create a journalist cover letter to persuade the recruiters you're the best candidate for the role;
• Use industry-leading journalist cover letter templates and examples to save time;
• Dedicate your journalist cover letter space to your best achievement;
• Make sure your journalist cover letter meets recruiters' expectations and standards.

Avoid starting at the blank page for hours by using Enhancv's AI - just upload your resume and your journalist cover letter will be ready for you to (tweak and) submit for your dream job.

If the journalist isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Journalist resume guide and example
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Journalist cover letter example

San Francisco, CA

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Highlighting relevant experience such as the exclusive scoop on AI in autonomous vehicles showcases the candidate's ability to deliver impactful and newsworthy content, which is crucial for a journalist role.
• Emphasizing the results of the candidate's work, including the 30% increase in website traffic, demonstrates data-driven accomplishments and an understanding of audience engagement, both important for a digital publication.
• Expressing enthusiasm and alignment with the publication's standards and goals suggests a cultural fit and an appreciation of the company's values, making the candidate potentially more appealing to the hiring manager.

Structuring and formatting your journalist cover letter

Here's what the structure of your journalist cover letter should include:

• Header (with your name, the position you're applying for, and the date);
• Salutation (or greeting);
• Introductory paragraph (or your opening statement);
• Body paragraph (or further proof of your experience);
• Closing paragraph (with a call to action);
• Signature (that is optional).

Use the same font for your journalist resume and cover letter - modern fonts like Lato and Rubik would help you stand out.

Your journalist cover letter should be single-spaced and have a one-inch margins - this format is automatically set up in our cover letter templates and our cover letter builder .

When submitting your cover letter, always ensure it's in PDF, as this format keeps the information intact (and the quality of your document stays the same).

On one final note - the Applicant Tracker System (ATS or the software that is sometimes used to initially assess your application) won't read your journalist cover letter.

The top sections on a journalist cover letter

• Header: Include your contact information at the top of the cover letter so the recruiter can easily reach you; for journalists, having a professional header signals attention to presentation and detail, which are relevant to the role.
• Personalized Greeting: Research and use the name of the hiring manager or editor; personalization shows you've done your homework, an essential trait for a journalist.
• Introduction: Begin with a compelling hook and showcase your passion for journalism; this sets the tone and demonstrates your storytelling ability.
• Career Highlights: Detail relevant reporting experiences, key stories covered, or significant achievements in journalism; this section shows your practical expertise and credibility in the field.
• Closing Paragraph: Conclude with a strong finish, reiterating your enthusiasm for the position and explaining how you plan to contribute to their team; as a journalist, your concluding remarks should leave a lasting impression, prompting the recruiter to take action.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Strong writing and storytelling skills: Demonstrates the ability to create compelling content that engages readers.
• Nose for news: Shows an instinct for digging up newsworthy stories that are relevant and interesting to the audience.
• Investigative research abilities: Reflects the capacity to conduct thorough and accurate research, crucial for credibility and in-depth reporting.
• Multimedia proficiency: Indicates the capability to use various platforms and tools, like video, audio, and social media, for modern, multi-channel journalism.
• Ethical integrity: Recruiters look for journalists who adhere to high ethical standards, maintaining trustworthiness and impartiality.
• Resilience under pressure: Illustrates the potential to perform efficiently against tight deadlines and in potentially stressful or dangerous situations.

Kick off your journalist cover letter: the salutation or greeting

When writing your journalist cover letter, remember that you're not writing for some complex AI or robot, but for actual human beings.

And recruiters, while on the lookout to understand your experience, would enjoy seeing a cover letter that is tailored to the role and addresses them . Personally.

So, if you haven't done so, invest some time in finding out who's the hiring manager for the role you're applying to. A good place to start would be LinkedIn and the corporate website.

Alternatively, you could also get in touch with the company to find out more information about the role and the name of the recruiter.

If you haven't met the hiring manager, yet, your journalist cover letter salutation should be on a last-name basis (e.g. "Dear Mr. Donaldson" or "Dear Ms. Estephan").

A good old, "Dear HR Professional" (or something along those lines) could work as your last resort if you're struggling to find out the recruiter's name.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
• Dear [Editor-in-Chief's Name],
• Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name],
• Dear [Publication Name] Team,
• Dear [Department Name] Search Committee,
• Dear [Hiring Manager's Title],

Your journalist cover letter intro: showing your interest in the role

On to the actual content of your journalist cover letter and the introductory paragraph .

The intro should be no more than two sentences long and presents you in the best light possible.

Use your journalist cover letter introduction to prove exactly what interests you in the role or organization. Is it the:

• Company culture;
• Growth opportunities;
• Projects and awards the team worked on/won in the past year;
• Specific technologies the department uses.

When writing your journalist cover letter intro, be precise and sound enthusiastic about the role.

Your introduction should hint to recruiters that you're excited about the opportunity and that you possess an array of soft skills, e.g. motivation, determination, work ethic, etc.

Storytelling in the middle (or body) of your journalist cover letter

You've got your whole resume sorted, detailing your achievements and skills. What else can you write in your journalist cover letter ?

For starters, take the time to re-assess the job requirements and re-discover the most crucial skills and requirements (or keywords).

After making a list of these important keywords, look back on your experience to select just one of your past accomplishments.

Choose the achievement that is the most noteworthy, relevant to the role, and matches the required skills.

Use the next between three and six paragraphs to narrate how:

• you've grown your skill set, thanks to your achievement;
• you'd use the know-how you've gained in your new role;
• your accomplishment could help your potential employers grow.

Remember that recruiters don't need a retelling of your whole resume, but want to find out what makes you, you.

Final words: writing your journalist cover letter closing paragraph

The final paragraph of your journalist cover letter allows you that one final chance to make a great first impression .

Instead of going straight to the "sincerely yours" ending, you can back up your skills with a promise of:

• how you see yourself growing into the role;
• the unique skills you'd bring to the organization.

Whatever you choose, always be specific (and remember to uphold your promise, once you land the role).

If this option doesn't seem that appealing to you, close off your journalist cover letter with a follow-up request.

You could even provide your availability for interviews so that the recruiters would be able to easily arrange your first meeting.

Which story should you tell in your journalist cover letter when you have zero experience

Candidates, lacking professional experience in the field - this one is for you.

Your journalist cover letter is an exercise of integrity, honesty, and, above all, spinning a positive narrative around your strengths.

And what better way to capture recruiters' attention than with your most job-relevant achievement (this could be from your internship or volunteering experience)?

Make sure to back up your success with transferrable skills that are relevant to the job (e.g. how your year, studying abroad, has taught you to be more motivated and handle multicultural environments).

Another safe card you can bet on is your career dream: in the body of your journalist cover letter, go into the details of how your ambitions would help make the company you're applying for better.

Key takeaways

Within this Enhancv guide, we've provided you with plenty of advice and inspiration on writing your journalist cover letter:

• Always make sure your journalist cover letter is tailored to the role you're applying for to make a good impression on recruiters;
• In your journalist cover letter include a header (with your name, the role you're applying for, date, and contact details) and an introduction of up to two sentences that highlight your key accomplishment or why you'd fit the role;
• Focus your journalist cover letter body on one sole achievement through your career and all the valuable lessons, skills, and know-how you've learned (that are relevant to the role);
• Ensure your journalist cover letter closing statement isn't generic and includes either a call to action or a promise;
• If you lack professional experience, shift recruiters' focus to a relevant achievement (thanks to your academic or versatile experience) or toward your dreams and goals for professional growth.

Journalist cover letter examples

Explore additional journalist cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

Keep Getting Rejected Job Applications? 16 Resume Mistakes You’re Probably Making

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Journalism Cover Letter: Examples & Step-by-Step Guide

In this article, we'll cover:

Journalism Cover Letter Examples

How to write a cover letter for a journalist job, journalism cover letter template.

As a journalist, you will be responsible for investigating, collecting, and presenting information as a news story which can be delivered through newspapers, magazines, radio, television, or the internet. Based on such news, citizens are able to make the best possible decisions about all aspects of their lives like business, healthcare, politics, etc.

As a thrilling yet competitive job prospect, journalism takes more than just a huge passion for writing to get into. One of the basic requirements is crafting a strong journalist cover letter that helps pitch yourself effectively to employers. From a journalism internship cover letter to a reporter cover letter, we will have them all covered with an ultimate guide, winning tips, and excellent samples. 

Having a well-written cover letter and resume might be one of the most challenging parts when applying for a job. Let’s start off with 2 cover letter samples for journalism jobs as shown below:

✉️ Journalism internship cover letter sample

Gracie Lee Garnette  [email protected] (+0936)-xxx-xxx

August 06, 2022

Evan Huang Editor-in-chief  Times Magazine 603 Springdale Rd, Austin, TX 78721  [email protected]

Dear Mr. Huang,

My name is Gracie, a final-year student at the University of Arizona School of Journalism majoring in Photojournalism. When Professor Keith Smiths told me about the opening for Publications Intern at the Times Magazine and suggested I should apply, I knew this was an opportunity where my writing can make a valuable contribution.  

While still in high school, I was elected the editor-in-chief of the school newspaper which covered a variety of topics such as sports, movie reviews, career counseling, and human interest stories. Back then, my major responsibilities included overseeing the production of articles for publications and developing content strategies.

My passion for journalism is not limited to writing, but I also have a keen interest in photography and research. That motivated me to pursue a bachelor's degree in Photojournalism. During 3 years at the University of Arizona School of Journalism, I’ve produced 400+ articles for both school activities and my personal projects. Moreover, I’ve conducted nearly 30 interviews, which were published on the school's Facebook page.

I am an open-minded, fast learner with a willingness to take on new challenges. Being a Publications Intern at the Times Magazine will allow me to gain plenty of professional experience and, at the same time, bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm to your company.

Please find enclosed my resume, writing samples, and references. I would enjoy an opportunity  to learn more about the internship program and further discuss how I can contribute to the team with you. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Gracie Lee Garnette

✉️ Cover letter for news reporters

Ryan Leone (+190)-390-xxxx  [email protected]

August 13, 2022

Jessica Pullman Hiring Manager Channel4U 3901 Oak Run Ln, Mansfield, TX 76063

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of News Reporter at Channel4U. Having 4 years of experience working for local media outlets, I fully understand the reporter's duties and responsibilities. I also feel that my interests and skills closely align with what Channel 4U is doing. 

I graduated in Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia at the University of North Carolina in 2015, but started my full-time career in 2016 after completing a six-month internship at Garnett. The news reporting internship allowed me to gain plenty of experience in local news, breaking news, and digital optimization - not to mention, strong research and storytelling skills.

After the internship, I worked as a Breaking News Reporter at HuffPost, a subsidiary of BuzzFeed, Inc., for 4 years. My responsibilities primarily included: 

• Gathering and reporting breaking news on a range of subjects, from politics to major court cases to international demonstrations.
• Contributing to live coverage of major events, such as elections, debates, and natural disasters.
• Pitching ideas for daily news coverage on new topics.
• Working closely with editors to develop and execute longer-form stories or projects. 

Here are links to my most-viewed news stories that you might find interesting:

• Foodverse x NFT: 3 major trends followed by big food companies
• Top 5 biggest NFT marketplaces in 2022 you should know
• Did you know? Research on the perceptions & interests of NFTs among sport fans

I have attached my resume with detailed work history and portfolio for your further review. Please let me know if you have any questions. I would love to schedule a meeting to discuss how my expertise can help Channel4U make a lasting impact, both locally and nationally.

Best regards, Ryan Leone

💡 Choose the standard cover letter format.

Keep in mind that you’re writing a business letter. Hence, make sure your journalism cover letter is well-formatted and includes the following elements: 

• Your full name and contact details (i.e., email address, phone number, physical address, LinkedIn, or personal website) 
• Date submitted (MM/DD/YY)
• The recipient’s name and job title  
• The company’s name and physical address
• A formal salutation (generally start with Dear)
• A short introduction (who you are and why you're applying for this role)
• Body paragraphs (what makes you the best fit in terms of education, experience, and skills; and how you can contribute to the employer)
• A closing paragraph (express your appreciation and include a CTA for an interview opportunity)
• A proper sign-off and signature

✨ Reminder: To gain a better understanding of a journalism cover letter, please refer to the graphic at the top of the page. 

💡 Tailor your journalist cover letter to the role.

Since each job within the journalism sector asks for different requirements, make sure both your resume and cover letter are customized accordingly. 

Let's say, when writing a journalism cover letter with no experience, you should place an emphasis on your educational background and relevant skills. On the other hand, it's important to underline relevant experience and accomplishments if you’ve stayed in the field for a while. 

Likewise, the skills included in a reporter cover letter will be not the same as a journalist cover letter. The hiring manager can thus see your relevance to the role and be more likely to offer you the interview opportunity.

💡 Highlight relevant skills or experience.

Perhaps you have already mentioned essential journalist skills in your resume. However, a cover letter will allow you to be more specific about these, particularly how you've developed these skills and how they have been or will be applied at work. 

10 key skills you can highlight in your cover letter for a journalism job: 

• Writing & editing skills
• Reporting skills
• Research skills
• Story-telling skills 
• Interpersonal skills
• Active listening
• Social media savvy
• Attention to detail 
• Time management

Example of presenting skills in a cover letter for news reporters :

“During my 6 years at X Channel, I also worked closely with the production team to explore a wide variety of innovative story ideas and topics. Besides strong team collaboration skills, I've also received commendations for demonstrating exceptional storytelling skills, meeting every deadline, and paying attention to the smallest details.”

💡 Keep it concise.

As a general rule of thumb, a journalism cover letter should range between 170-300 words. Making it too short may lead the hiring manager to think that you didn't put much effort into the job application, or that you don't have lots of things to show. A letter exceeding 400 words, on the other hand, can be deemed too lengthy or likely to rehash your journalist resume.

💡 Proofread and ask for feedback.  

You've made great efforts to showcase your excellent writing skills throughout your  journalist cover letter and resume. If so, don't make them land in the trash due to grammatical errors or typos. 

You can use online grammar and spell checkers like LanguageTool , GrammarCheck , Grammarly , etc. to make sure they are error-free and good to go. Besides that, it's highly recommended you have your Professor or former colleague/employer proofread your cover letter and give you some useful feedback. 

Feel free to use the ready-to-use template below if you’re preparing your journalist cover letter.

[Your Full Name]  [Your Address]  [Your Email Address]  [Your Phone Number]

[ Date Written ]

[Recipient’s Name]  [Recipient’s Job Title]  [Company Name]  [Company Address]

Dear Hiring Manager/Mr.Mrs [ Last Name ] , 

In response to your job ad on [ Job Site ] , I am very interested in the [ Job Role ] position at [ Company Name ] , and believe that my previous work experience, educational background, and developed skillset will allow me to contribute to the ongoing success at your organization.

I graduated from [ Your college ] with a major in [ Your Major ] and started my journalism career after that. During [ Number ] of years as a [ Former Job ] , my major duties and responsibilities include:

• [ List out 3-5 tasks you handled previously ]
• [ Show a quantifiable result ]

During my tenure in this position, I’ve thoroughly honed my journalism, researching, and reporting skills, as well as succeeded in meeting all deadlines. Besides that, I consider myself as a [ Personal Trait ] journalist with [ Soft Skill 1 ] and [ Soft Skill 2 ] . 

I am now looking to [Career Goals] which closely align with [ Company Name ] ’s vision and core values. Please kindly find attached my resume and portfolio with a sample of my articles. I look forward to speaking with you more about my qualifications and how I can add value to the organization. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely,  [Your Name]

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Magazine Journalist Cover Letter: Examples, Format & Sample Letter

A magazine journalist cover letter serves as a gateway to the exciting world of journalism, where words have the power to captivate and inform readers. Crafting a compelling cover letter is crucial for magazine journalists who want to make a strong impression and stand out from the competition.

In this article, we will explore the best format for a magazine journalist’s cover letter and provide you with a sample letter to help you create an impactful document. Whether you’re an experienced journalist or a budding writer looking to break into the industry, understanding the key components of an effective cover letter is essential.

By following the guidelines outlined here and infusing your unique voice and experiences, you can create a standout cover letter that grabs the attention of editors and showcases your passion for storytelling. So, let’s dive into the best format and sample letter for a magazine journalist cover letter, and get ready to embark on an exciting journey in the world of journalism.

Table of Contents

Magazine journalist cover letter template, what should the cover letter include, best format for a magazine journalist cover letter, mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Today’s Date]

[Editor’s Name] [Magazine Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Editor’s Name],

I am writing to express my strong interest in the magazine journalist writer position at [Magazine Name], as advertised on [Source]. With my passion for storytelling, extensive writing experience, and keen eye for capturing compelling narratives, I believe I am an ideal candidate for this role.

As an accomplished journalist with [X] years of experience, I have had the privilege of writing for reputable publications such as [Publication Name]. My work has encompassed a wide range of topics, including lifestyle, travel, culture, and current affairs. I am confident in my ability to produce engaging content that resonates with readers and aligns with the unique voice and vision of [Magazine Name].

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a strong ability to conduct thorough research, interview diverse sources, and craft well-structured articles that inform and entertain readers. I pride myself on my versatility as a writer, capable of adapting my style to suit the tone and audience of different publications. This adaptability is reflected in my portfolio, which showcases my ability to deliver high-quality, thought-provoking pieces that capture the essence of a story.

In addition to my writing skills, I am highly adept at meeting tight deadlines and working collaboratively with editors and fellow journalists. I am well-versed in the editorial process, and I understand the importance of adhering to style guidelines and incorporating feedback to produce polished, publication-ready content.

I am particularly drawn to [Magazine Name]’s commitment to in-depth reporting and its dedication to exploring diverse perspectives. The strong reputation of your publication and its influence in the industry make it an exciting platform for me to contribute my skills and expertise.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience and passion align with the goals of [Magazine Name]. Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing samples for your review. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the continued success of [Magazine Name] as a magazine journalist writer.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

A cover letter for a magazine journalist writer position should effectively showcase your skills, experiences, and passion for storytelling. Here are the key elements that should be included in your cover letter:

• Introduction : Start with a strong opening paragraph that grabs the reader’s attention and clearly states your interest in the magazine journalist writer position. Briefly mention how you came across the job opportunity and express your enthusiasm for the publication.
• Relevant Experience : Highlight your relevant writing experience, particularly any previous work in magazine journalism or related fields. Discuss your accomplishments, such as published articles, interviews, or awards, that demonstrate your ability to write compelling stories and engage readers.
• Understanding of the Publication : Show that you have done your research on the magazine and understand its target audience, style, and voice. Discuss why you are drawn to the publication and how your writing style aligns with its goals and values.
• Writing Skills : Emphasize your strong writing skills, including your ability to craft engaging narratives, conduct thorough research, and adapt your writing style to different topics and tones. Provide specific examples of your work that highlight your versatility and ability to capture readers’ attention.
• Passion for Storytelling : Convey your passion for storytelling and your dedication to producing meaningful and impactful content. Discuss why you are passionate about journalism and how you believe your writing can make a difference in the lives of readers.
• Collaboration and Adaptability : Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with editors, sources, and fellow journalists. Showcase your openness to feedback and your willingness to adapt your writing to meet editorial guidelines and publication standards.
• Closing : End your cover letter by expressing your gratitude for the opportunity to be considered for the magazine journalist writer position. Reiterate your interest in the role and your enthusiasm for contributing to the success of the publication. Provide your contact information and express your willingness to provide additional writing samples or discuss your qualifications further.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused, ideally not exceeding one page. Tailor your letter to the specific requirements and values of the magazine you are applying to, and proofread carefully to ensure there are no grammatical or spelling errors. By including these key elements, your cover letter will effectively demonstrate your suitability and passion for the magazine journalist writer position.

The format of a magazine journalist’s cover letter plays a crucial role in making a strong impression on potential employers. Here is a breakdown of the best format to follow for a magazine journalist cover letter:

• Header : Begin with your contact information at the top of the letter, including your full name, address, phone number, and email address. Follow this with the current date.
• Recipient Information : Below the date, include the name, title, and address of the recipient, typically the hiring manager or editor-in-chief of the magazine. If you are unsure of the recipient’s name, research and address the letter to the appropriate contact person.
• Salutation : Address the recipient by name, using “Dear [Recipient’s Name].” If you are unable to find a specific name, use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Editor.”
• Introduction : Begin the letter with a captivating opening paragraph that grabs the reader’s attention and clearly states your interest in the magazine journalist position. Mention how you discovered the job opportunity and express your enthusiasm for the magazine.
• Relevant Experience : In the subsequent paragraphs, highlight your relevant experience as a journalist, focusing on magazine writing, reporting, or any related work. Discuss your accomplishments, internships, or freelance work that demonstrate your ability to write engaging articles and capture readers’ interest.
• Skills and Qualifications : Showcase your writing skills, research abilities, and knowledge of various topics. Emphasize your ability to meet deadlines, work collaboratively with editors and sources, and adapt your writing style to fit the magazine’s tone and target audience.
• Passion for the Publication : Demonstrate your understanding of the magazine’s brand, values, and audience. Express your genuine interest in the publication and explain how your skills and experiences align with its goals. Show that you are familiar with the magazine’s content and highlight specific articles or features that resonate with you.
• Closing : Wrap up the letter by expressing your gratitude for considering your application. Restate your interest in the magazine journalist position and your eagerness to contribute to the publication’s success. Provide your contact information and express your willingness to provide additional writing samples or discuss your qualifications further.
• Signature : End the letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” Leave space for your handwritten signature, followed by your typed name.

Remember to keep the cover letter concise and focused, ideally not exceeding one page. Proofread the letter carefully for any grammatical or spelling errors. By following this format, you can create a well-structured and compelling magazine journalist cover letter that showcases your skills, experiences, and passion for the role.

When writing a cover letter for a magazine journalist position, it’s important to avoid certain common mistakes that can undermine your chances of landing the job. Here are some basic mistakes to avoid:

• Generic Content : Avoid using generic and vague language in your cover letter. Tailor your letter to the specific magazine and position you are applying for, showcasing your knowledge of the publication and its target audience.
• Overly Long or Short Length : Your cover letter should be concise and focused, ideally not exceeding one page. Avoid rambling or including unnecessary information. On the other hand, don’t make it too short, as it may seem insincere or lacking in substance.
• Grammatical and Spelling Errors : Proofread your cover letter carefully to eliminate any grammatical or spelling mistakes. These errors can create a negative impression and suggest a lack of attention to detail, which is particularly detrimental to a writing position.
• Lack of Research : Avoid submitting a generic cover letter without conducting thorough research on the magazine. Show that you understand the publication’s style, values, and target audience. Tailor your letter to demonstrate your genuine interest in the specific magazine and how you can contribute to its content.
• Repeating Information from Your Resume : Your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it verbatim. Instead of rehashing your work history, focus on highlighting relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the magazine journalist position.
• Lack of Personalization : Address the cover letter to a specific individual whenever possible. Avoid using generic salutations like “To Whom It May Concern.” Taking the time to find the name of the hiring manager or editor-in-chief demonstrates your attention to detail and personalization.
• Negativity or Desperation : Maintain a positive and confident tone throughout your cover letter. Avoid sounding desperate or focusing on why you need the job. Instead, emphasize what you can bring to the magazine and how your skills and experiences align with its goals.
• Failure to Proofread : Before submitting your cover letter, carefully proofread it to ensure it is error-free and coherent. Read it aloud or ask someone else to review it for clarity and effectiveness.

By avoiding these basic mistakes, you can enhance the quality and impact of your cover letter for a magazine journalist position. Remember to showcase your unique skills, experiences, and passion for storytelling, while demonstrating your understanding of the magazine and its audience.

Crafting a well-written and impactful cover letter is essential when applying for a magazine journalist position. By following the best format and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a cover letter that effectively showcases your skills, experiences, and passion for storytelling.

The format of a magazine journalist cover letter should include a clear and concise introduction, highlighting your interest in the position and demonstrating your understanding of the publication. It is crucial to tailor your letter to the specific magazine, showcasing your research and knowledge of its target audience, style, and voice.

Avoid common mistakes such as using generic content, excessive length, grammatical errors, and lack of personalization. Instead, focus on highlighting your relevant experience, writing skills, adaptability, and collaboration abilities. Showcasing your passion for storytelling and dedication to producing meaningful content will set you apart from other applicants.

Remember to proofread your cover letter meticulously to eliminate any mistakes and ensure clarity. Your conclusion should express gratitude for considering your application and reiterate your interest in the magazine journalist position. Provide your contact information and express your willingness to provide additional writing samples or discuss your qualifications further.

By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling cover letter that captures the attention of hiring managers and demonstrates your suitability for a magazine journalist role. A well-crafted cover letter will help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of landing your dream job in the dynamic and exciting field of magazine journalism.

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WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / Journalism Cover Letter Examples

Journalism Cover Letter Examples

A journalism cover letter is a brief, formal letter that accompanies the resume of someone applying to be a journalist.

The cover letter usually includes information about the applicant’s qualifications, including their journalism experience, to show employers that they have the necessary skills, such as reporting, investigating, interviewing, etc., that are needed in a journalist.

The main purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant to the potential employer and provide a summary of their background and qualifications. Therefore, it should be brief yet informative. The letter can be addressed to different individuals, such as an editor or reader at a particular media/publishing company, as well as any hiring managers for an individual position within that company.

It is an effective way of distinguishing yourself from other applicants with similar credentials. This can greatly boost your chances of securing the job, especially in entry-level positions .

In addition, writing a cover letter ensures you create a lasting impression on the employer by offering them additional information that was not communicated through your resume. As such, your cover letter will outline your specific skills with context, reasons why you want and qualify for the job, your contribution to your previous job position, and other details that illustrate your suitability and competency.

Often the personalization of the cover letter is advised. A personalized letter shows that you are dedicated to the job offered and are not just applying for the position with a generic journalism cover letter.

This article will competently guide you on how to write a solid journalism cover letter and offer examples of how to write its components and other informative details.

How to Professionally Format a Journalism Cover Letter

The format of a cover letter usually depends on the job description and its requirements. However, some standard formatting essentials will aid you in creating a professional cover letter. Knowing how to format a cover letter requires you to have an understanding of what information should be included in it.

Here are some tips and guidelines for professionally formatting a journalism cover letter:

• Use a one-inch margin on all sides.
• Ensure the spacing of the letter is 1 or 1.15. Also, leave empty spaces between sections of the letter and paragraphs.
• Write the letter in an elegant and professional font the same one that you used in your resume.
• Use a font size of between 11 to 12 points.
• Align the contents of the letter to the left.
• Maintain the length of the letter at a maximum of one page.

6 Steps to Writing a Good Journalism Cover Letter

If you are looking for work as a journalist, you will want to create a cover letter that shows your journalism experience as well as your interest in and suitability for the position. The cover letter should follow all of the standard rules for writing and formatting it.

The following are the six steps to follow when writing a good journalism cover letter:

Step 1: Briefly introduce yourself

Briefly mention who you are and the purpose of the letter, which is to apply for the journalist position. A strong introduction prepares the reader for what to expect in the cover letter. Mention the position you are applying for as well as an achievement or a testament to why you are suitable for the job.

I want to apply for the editor-in-chief position at your company. My work experience is as a full-time reporter and editor at The Phoenix. In addition, I was the assistant editor of The Drape Newspaper. I have also worked as a staff reporter for Sunlight Times and as a news editor at the local print publication, The Daily Journal. As such, I believe my vast experience qualifies me as a suitable candidate for the position.

Step 2: Show that you are the perfect candidate

The body paragraphs should include information about the applicant’s related experience or credentials that are relevant to the job description . Each point should be relevant. Look at the employer’s needs and expectations in the job description before you begin writing your cover letter.

This gives you an idea of the ideal candidate the employer is looking for. Ensure to check out each organization’s specific job description and what they are looking for in an employee.

Reference your portfolio. For example, if you have worked as a reporter or columnist for your school magazine or newspaper, then be sure to mention that in your cover letter by inserting relevant links. If you have received awards or professional accomplishments in journalism, be sure to mention them.

I worked as a news reporter and editor while attending New York State University, earning Outstanding Achievement awards for my work both in my journalism career and in other professional settings. I am currently a staff reporter at the local newspaper, The Flag News. In my recent seven months there, I have been able to conduct investigations into major crimes such as mass shootings and sexual assault. My local reporting experience has also prepared me to work with ABC Inc. as a journalist on investigative projects.

Step 3: Explain why you want the position

This is one of the key sections of the letter that should be highlighted. Explain how the opportunity to work for the employer would positively impact your career and personal growth in this step. You can achieve this by referencing any of the publisher’s past articles that have caught your attention and/or interest.

Show genuine interest in the organization and indicate your intentions to stay with them for a significant period by mentioning any long-term benefits you can gain from the job, for example, networking.  You can also achieve this by expressing shared professional beliefs and shared values.

This is one that should be highlighted. Explain this step. You can achieve this by referencing any of the publisher’s past articles that have caught your attention and/or interest.

Show genuine interest in the organization and indicate your intentions to stay with them for a significant period by mentioning any long-term benefits you can gain from the job, for example, networking. You can also achieve this by expressing shared professional beliefs and shared values.

As a journalist and editor, I have developed the skills to research, write, and publish investigative reports as well as more traditional news reports and stories. I also possess excellent interpersonal communication skills . I am familiar with modern journalism practices from my experience in online media and blogging, regularly contributing to sites including The Daily Journal, Sunlight Times, Blogging for Change, and others.

Step 4: Discuss what impact you can make on them 

In the body of your letter, you should focus on a few key points that demonstrate why you can be an asset to the company. It is important to address this by using examples from previous job positions and highlighting qualifications specifically in terms of the job description.

Quantify what you can do for them by referring to the achievements in the resume. Avoid reiterating your duties in detail and focus on the impact or results of your contributions at work. You can determine what to include by identifying the challenges the employer is currently facing and the primary job requirement. 

My work has been published widely in local newspapers. I intend to produce industry-standard publications. I’m able to produce 5 columns of reports per week. My ability to convey information guarantees to attract a wide audience and retain returning readers. I can bring my expertise in article blogging to help The Mirror News transition into online publishing.

Step 5: Show how passionate you are about the job

You should establish how serious you are about performing the job in addition to wanting to work for their organization. This is a good way to demonstrate your enthusiasm, which employers look for in their employees.

Demonstrate how you are driven by your career and ensure that you show your commitment by emphasizing how your background will positively contribute to the organization. Also, show how your goals and those of the organization align.

I enjoy working with companies such as yours that support the community’s interests by promoting positive solutions to social issues. I’d like to join your organization in informing your readers and ensuring the people have a voice and medium to reach authorities.

Step 6: Incorporate a call to action and sign off

The closing paragraph should re-emphasize why you are an ideal candidate for the job and how you would like to be contacted about an interview or job offer . This should be a call to action.

You can request a call or a meeting. This demonstrates that being hired will be more valuable to the organization than to you. Then sign off the letter with a complimentary close and your name.

I am highly motivated and eager to work with you and help build your business. If you’re interested in my application, please contact me at [email protected] for an interview.

Sincerely, Cindi Gibbons

Sample Cover Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the journalist position at NewsVoice Daily, as advertised on your website. With a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Springfield University and three years of experience in investigative reporting, I believe I am a strong candidate for this role.

At my current position at City Times, I have honed my skills in fact-checking, interviewing, and delivering compelling news stories under tight deadlines. My dedication to uncovering the truth and presenting it in an engaging manner has led to a 20% increase in readership for my column. I specialize in political reporting but have also covered a wide range of topics, from local events to international news.

What excites me most about the opportunity at NewsVoice Daily is your commitment to unbiased and impactful journalism. I am particularly impressed by your recent series on climate change, which not only informed the public but also initiated meaningful discussions. I am eager to bring my expertise in investigative journalism and my passion for storytelling to your esteemed publication.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. 

Jordan Smith

The cover letter provided serves as a practical example for writing a professional cover letter, specifically tailored for a journalism position. Its structure is logically divided into four distinct paragraphs, each serving a specific purpose, which provides a clear framework for conveying the necessary information. The first paragraph efficiently sets the context by stating the intent and the applicant’s relevant educational background. In the subsequent paragraphs, the focus shifts to the applicant’s professional experience and skills. Here, the writer effectively uses specific examples and quantifiable achievements, such as the increase in readership due to their contributions, which illustrates their competence and potential impact.

Key aspects to observe from this example include:

• Structured Approach: The letter is organized into an introduction, a detailed professional background, specific accomplishments, and a concluding section.
• Detail-Oriented Content: The writer provides detailed information about past experiences, demonstrating their skills and achievements.
• Relevance to Position: The letter specifically addresses the requirements and ethos of the prospective employer.
• Professional but Approachable Tone: While the language is formal and professional, it avoids being overly promotional, maintaining an informative yet approachable tone.
• Clear Conclusion: The writer ends the letter with an invitation for further discussion, which is a standard practice in cover letters.

This cover letter can be a useful guide for individuals looking to draft their cover letters for journalistic roles. It demonstrates how to present qualifications and experiences in a way that is both informative and aligned with the requirements of the prospective job.

Journalism Cover Letter Templates 

How Long Should a Journalism Cover Letter Be? 

An employer typically has limited time to go over the multiple cover letters they receive, so you should keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page. It should be clear and concise. Include a few relevant skills and noteworthy achievements to ensure the length is retained.

Key Takeaways

• A journalism cover letter is fundamentally a document that briefly introduces a candidate and their experience to the employer.
• It should have a concise introduction and body paragraphs that demonstrate your interest in the specific job, relevant skills and qualifications, and the impact you can make on the organization.
• They are often attached to CVs, which are mailed or delivered to employers.
• It should be brief, professional, and focused on attracting an employer.
• In the cover letter, you can reference the experience gained from writing news items from primary sources, conducting interviews, and editing news items for accuracy.

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