Can someone help me with a journalistic human resource question?

There's a local paper looking for journalists. I have a little expierence with a different local paper that's distributed monthly....I've done 3 articles for them. Anyway, this new paper is on a much larger scale but I want to get in so badly. My question is do I show up with my resume/cover letter/writing samples when I know the managing editor is going to be there and ask to give it to him directly? Or do I submit it via email the way the help wanted ad said? I only ask because its a journalism position, so I feel like being bold and showing up there would show my capability. Which do I do?

I was a reporter for six years -- if they want you to reply via e-mail, then that is how you should do it. Don't ignore their instructions.

It's possible that you will go through a series of interviews andonly meet with the managing editor after you've talked to one or more folks. He/she may be too busy to talk to each applicant.

Do include your writing samples in the e-mail, but bring them with you if you are called in for an interview.

Good luck

Do both. Show them you mean business.

Submit your resume via email like it said in the ad, and include your writing samples. You might seem pushy or like you can't follow written instructions or don't think rules apply to you if you just show up. It's a real gamble to just show up unless you already know the managing editor pretty well; a stranger might think you're bold and a go-getter but they just as easily might think you are obnoxious.

I have no experience with the particular field that you are inquiring about, but in my experience with other jobs it has always proven to be more beneficial if you go above and beyond from the beginning. I would presume that they would think much higher of you if you showed up in person. Besides, what have you got to lose? What can they say, that you're too ambitious? I think not...

Try going in person...it shows initiative, although you may get criticism for not following directions...depends on the manager. If you can't get through, you can always apply later on-line.

Sometimes a little creativity can go a long way, other times it may get you thrown in jail.... How about thinking of some way to get in front of the Managing Editor! Here's one idea, believe me though, there's many more you should be able to think of: Why not pose as a writer for a popular magazine (Time, News Week???) looking to interview editors and reporters that work in the "American Culture" or small town news or rural America or ???? whatever. Interview that person, then take your notes and make them part of the reason you would like to work for the company.

You did say journalism, so I really don't know what aspect you really want to work in so my idea won't work for all areas, just those that would require you to be inventive and think outside the box.

Good luck!

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