News Reporter/ Digital Content Writer - KPQ

As a News Reporter/Digital Content Writer at KPQ in Wenatchee, your main responsibilities include crafting 1-3 articles daily, covering breaking news, police and fire reports, community business updates, and engaging features. You'll be instrumental in leading a team of reporters, developing content strategies based on audience interests and SEO insights, and writing captivating social media content to engage readers post-publication.

To be considered for the News Reporter position at KPQ, applicants should have 1-3 years of experience in a news organization, preferably with digital newsroom exposure. Strong writing and reporting skills, familiarity with AP style, and an understanding of effective online content strategies geared towards SEO are crucial. Additionally, excellent communication skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure are essential.

As a News Reporter at KPQ in Wenatchee, you can look forward to a competitive salary ranging from $35,000 to $45,000, along with excellent benefits such as 3 weeks of PTO, 9 paid holidays, healthcare options, a 401(k) retirement plan, and opportunities for professional development. You'll also enjoy a casual and energetic work environment that encourages creativity and personal growth.

KPQ offers a casual, high-energy work environment focused on community impact and team collaboration. Located in Wenatchee, WA, the workplace strikes a balance between hard work and leisure, allowing employees to enjoy the stunning surroundings and vibrant local culture. KPQ values creativity, supports individual contributions, and promotes an empowering atmosphere for all journalists.

At KPQ, engaging with our audience goes beyond traditional reporting. News Reporters are expected to create compelling social media content that sparks conversations and shares our news stories effectively. By crafting clever social teases, eye-catching headlines, and engaging newsletters, you will help to cultivate a dedicated readership that connects with our work both online and offline.

When answering this question, share specific examples of your work in community journalism – projects that highlight your ability to connect with local audiences, how you cover sensitive topics, and the challenges you faced. Emphasize the importance of community engagement in your reporting process.

Discuss your method for assessing story importance based on factors such as timeliness, impact on the community, and audience interest. Provide an example of a high-pressure situation where you successfully prioritized and delivered vital information.

Explain your familiarity with SEO practices, including keyword research and placement, meta descriptions, and crafting engaging headlines. Mention specific tools you've used and provide an example of a successful article you've optimized for better visibility.

Share your approach to receiving criticism professionally. Emphasize the importance of constructive feedback in enhancing your skills and adapting your writing style. Providing an example of how you processed feedback in the past could help illustrate this.

Discuss any instances where you utilized multimedia elements such as photos, videos, or interactive content in your articles. Highlight how this enhanced the storytelling experience, engaged audiences more effectively, and your familiarity with tools to create multimedia content.

Explain the critical role of social media in distributing news, engaging with audiences directly, and building a loyal community. Provide examples of how you have successfully used social media platforms to promote articles or interact with readers.

Elaborate on tools, platforms, or subscriptions you utilize to stay informed about journalism trends, changes in audience consumption habits, and technology in digital media. Mention any professional organizations you are a part of or webinars you attend.

Select an impactful article from your portfolio, outlining its topic, the writing process, and the response it received from readers. Highlight any measurable outcomes like engagement rates, shares, or discussions it spurred in the community.

Discuss your understanding of journalistic ethics and the SPJ code of ethics. Provide examples of how you’ve navigated ethical dilemmas in reporting, stressing transparency, accountability, and the importance of accuracy in news coverage.

Reflect on your writing style—what makes it distinct? Consider discussing your approach to storytelling, tone, and how you engage your listeners/readers, and why you believe it's essential for community journalism.