Creating an Effective CV for Entry-Level News Writer Positions: A Comprehensive Guide

Writing a compelling CV for the position of a News Writer without previous experience may seem challenging, but it's certainly achievable. A key skill required for this role is excellent written communication, a quality that can be demonstrated through various life experiences, academic achievements, or personal projects. How can one highlight transferable skills on a CV? What's the best way to demonstrate a keen interest in news and current affairs? How can a candidate showcase their potential to conduct thorough research and present findings in a clear, concise manner?

Below, we will create a sample resume for an entry-level News Writer, which you can modify and adjust to suit your personal needs.

Last update:
6/6/2024

All resume examples in this guide

No items found.
Resume 1
Resume 1
Resume 2
Resume 3
Budapest
Perth
Rotterdam
Chicago

Sample Resume Template for Entry Level News Writer

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]

Objective:

Motivated and creative Journalism graduate seeking an entry-level News Writer position at [Company Name]. Committed to delivering high-quality news coverage and upholding journalistic integrity. Looking to leverage academic knowledge and strong writing skills to produce engaging content.

Education:

Bachelor of Arts in Journalism

[University Name], [City, State]

[Years Attended]

Relevant Coursework: News Writing, Investigative Reporting, Media Ethics, Multimedia Journalism, Digital Communication.

Skills:

  • Excellent Writing
  • Research Proficiency
  • AP Style Expertise
  • Social Media Management
  • SEO Knowledge
  • Multimedia Production
  • Critical Thinking
  • Time Management
  • Detail-oriented
  • Team Collaboration

Work Experience:

Intern, [Company Name], [City, State]

[Start Date - End Date]

  • Assisted in researching and fact-checking stories for daily news segments.
  • Drafted concise and engaging social media posts to promote news articles.
  • Worked under tight deadlines to deliver accurate, up-to-date content.
  • Collaborated with a team of reporters to cover local events.

Staff Writer, [University Newspaper Name], [City, State]
[Start Date - End Date]

  • Wrote and edited articles for the university newspaper.
  • Conducted interviews and research to gather information for stories.
  • Managed social media platforms for the newspaper to engage readership.
  • Collaborated with the editorial team to brainstorm story ideas and plan content.

Projects:

Investigative Journalism Project
[University Name], [City, State]
[Start Date - End Date]

  • Investigated, researched, and wrote a long-form piece on local government transparency.
  • Conducted extensive interviews and data analysis.
  • Published in the university's annual Journalism Showcase.

Languages:

  • English (Native)
  • Spanish (Intermediate)

References:

Available upon request

Resume Guide
Use this example
Content Score
of your resume
Get My Resume Score

Writing a CV without experience is crucial for new entrants in the job market, as it showcases transferrable skills, education, and potential. It's an opportunity to highlight qualities like adaptability, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn. Your CV may be read by various recruiters such as internal HR teams, external recruitment agencies, or headhunters. They are all looking for raw talent that can be molded and developed, so ensure your CV reflects your potential.

In the forthcoming sections of this article, we will guide you on how to craft an impeccable CV for an aspiring News Writer with no prior experience, emphasizing its pertinence to this specific role. A well-structured CV can be your stepping stone into the industry, notwithstanding the lack of experience. The article will shed light on the key elements of a CV, in the order of formatting, title, education, skills, catch phrase, and finally, the cover letter. Each of these components plays a significant role in showcasing your potential to prospective employers and setting you apart from other candidates.

News writer entry level

Structuring and Formatting: Crafting a Standout Resume for Aspiring News Writers Without Experience


Crafting a well-structured CV is a crucial step for aspiring News Writers who are embarking on their career journey. A clear, organized layout speaks volumes to potential employers about an individual's professionalism, attention to detail, and understanding of effective communication. It can be a challenging task, especially for those without experience, but it's an opportunity to showcase your potential and commitment. Despite the lack of experience, a well-laid out CV can still capture the attention of employers, and significantly increase chances of landing that coveted first job in news writing. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and that step could very well be a meticulously structured CV.

Besides the News Writer Resume Template for beginners, we also offer other related templates you may find interesting.

Crafting a Stellar Resume for Aspiring News Writers: No Experience Necessary!

  • Font Selection: Choose a clean and professional font such as Arial or Times New Roman. As a news writer, clarity in communication is key and these fonts are universally recognized for their readability.
  • Formatting: Opt for a simple and streamlined format. This could include sections for personal information, a brief introductory statement, education, and any relevant skills or extracurricular activities. This will help potential employers quickly understand your qualifications.
  • Margins: Maintain a standard 1-inch margin on all sides of the page. This leaves enough white space to make the document appear uncluttered and easy to read.
  • Bullet Points: Use bullet points under each section to list your qualifications or achievements. This makes your CV more digestible and allows employers to grasp key information at a glance.
  • Separators: Employ horizontal lines or differentiating colors to separate different sections of your CV. This helps guide the reader's eye and adds structure to your document.
Advice: As a beginner in the field, make sure to highlight any relevant coursework or internships in your CV. While you may not have professional experience yet, these can demonstrate your commitment and potential in the field of news writing.

Crafting an Impressive Resume for Aspiring News Writers: No Experience Required!

News writer entry level


Creating a CV for a News Writer without experience requires a focus on transferable skills, relevant education and any applicable hands-on experience. Here are the key sections you should include in your CV:

  • Personal Details: This includes your full name, contact information, and professional title. You might be a 'Graduate in Journalism' or an 'Aspiring News Writer.'
  • Objective Statement: A concise and compelling introduction that outlines your career objectives and why you're interested in news writing. Example: "Recent journalism graduate seeking to leverage strong writing and research skills into a junior news writer position."
  • Skills: Highlight the skills that are most relevant to the job description, even if you lack direct experience. These may include abilities in research, writing, interviewing, or familiarity with news production software.
  • Education: Detail your academic qualifications, majoring in journalism, communications or a related field. Include any relevant coursework or projects, such as a university newspaper role or a dissertation on news media.
  • Internships or Relevant Experience: Even if you don't have professional news writing experience, you might have completed internships or gained experience in a related field. For example, an internship at a local newspaper or experience blogging on current events.
  • Certifications: If you have any journalism or writing-related certifications, include them here. This may include a diploma in creative writing or a certification in digital journalism.
  • References: Include references from your educators, internship coordinators or anyone else who can vouch for your skills and potential as a news writer. Remember to ask their permission before including them on your CV.
  • Additional Sections: This could include languages spoken, volunteer work, or personal interests that might be relevant to the news industry. For instance, if you have volunteered for a community radio station or have a keen interest in politics.
Remember to tailor your CV to each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job you're applying for.

Crafting the Perfect Resume Header for Aspiring News Writers: A Comprehensive Guide

News writer entry level


The header is crucial for a novice News Writer as it contains their contact details, making it easy for recruiters to reach out. To create an effective header, start with your last name, followed by your first name. Next, list your professional title, in this case, "News Writer," along with any specific discipline or focus area if applicable. After this, include your mailing address, ensuring that it is up-to-date and correctly formatted to avoid any confusion. Then, your phone number should be listed, preferably a mobile number for easy contact. Lastly, provide your professional e-mail address, making sure it's one you check regularly so any correspondence won't be missed.

Alexandra Smith

Sunset Boulevard, 893, 90069 Los Angeles, USA

+001 310 2480 6000

alexandra.smith@exemple.com


The Importance of Including a Professional Photo in Your Entry-Level News Writer Resume

For aspiring News Writers with no experience, the question of whether to include a photo on their CV often comes up. It should be clarified that a photo is not a compulsory element on a CV. The decision to include one is entirely a personal choice.

However, if one decides to add a photo, there are certain protocols to follow:

  • The photo should be professional, meaning selfies or photos from social events are not suitable.
  • The dimensions of the photo should ideally be rectangular, preferably 6.5 cm long by 4.5 cm wide.

Once a common practice, the inclusion of photos on CVs has declined significantly. For a news writer, whether or not a photo is attached to a CV is often irrelevant to hiring managers. While there is no rule prohibiting the addition of a photo to the CV, it is worth noting that most hiring managers do not prioritize CVs featuring photos.

If the decision is made to include a photo, it should be professional in nature.

The concept of including a photo on a CV is discretionary. As an inexperienced news writer, one can choose to apply with a CV without a photo. However, if one opts to include it, certain guidelines are recommended:

  • The background of the photo should be neutral.
  • The photo should be framed focusing on the face, either facing the camera or tilted three-quarters of the way.
  • Again, the photo should be rectangular in format, preferably 6.5 cm by 4.5 cm.
  • In conclusion, the inclusion of a photo on a CV is a personal choice and, for a news writer with no experience, it bears little to no impact on the hiring process.

Crafting an Impressive Resume for a News Writer Role, Despite Lack of Experience


Breaking into journalism as a News Writer with no experience may seem daunting, but it's all about showcasing your potential and passion. The following are practical and straightforward tips for creating a compelling CV that highlights your skills, even without direct experience. These tips aim to help you present yourself as a promising candidate eager to step into the field of news writing.

  • Start by adding your personal information at the top of your CV. This includes your name, contact information, and a professional email address.
  • Write a compelling objective statement highlighting your passion for news writing and your eagerness to learn in a professional setting.
  • Add an 'Education' section to your CV. Mention the course, year of graduation, and the name of the institution. Highlight any relevant subjects or projects completed during your study.
  • Include a section for 'Internships' or 'Work Experience'. List any internships or part-time jobs you may have done that are relevant to news writing, even if they were unpaid.
  • Don't forget to mention any volunteer work you've done. This could be anything from writing for your university's newspaper to managing publicity for a local event.
  • Add a 'Skills' section to your CV. As a news writer, you should highlight skills like research, writing, editing, and attention to detail.
  • If you have participated in any events, workshops, or seminars related to news writing or journalism, be sure to include these under a 'Professional Development' or 'Courses and Certifications' section.
  • Add a 'References' section if you can provide any. Professors, internship supervisors, or even senior students who have worked with you can be good references.
  • In your cover letter, explain your lack of experience but also emphasize your eagerness to learn and grow professionally.
  • Be honest and never lie or falsify information on your CV. If you have gaps in your experience, explain them in a positive light such as time spent on educational trips or cultural exchanges.
  • Proofread your CV thoroughly before sending it out. Make sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors and that the formatting is consistent throughout.
  • Lastly, keep your CV concise and to the point, ideally no more than two pages long.

Harnessing the Power of Education in Crafting a Resume for Aspiring News Writers


The education section in a News Writer's CV is crucial, especially for those who have no prior work experience. This section not only provides information about their academic qualifications, but it also highlights relevant skills and knowledge they've acquired during their studies. For instance, a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field can demonstrate a solid foundation in writing, research, and critical thinking - all essential skills for a news writer.

While having a degree is not always strictly required for a news writer position, it can significantly enhance the candidate's appeal to potential employers. It shows that the individual has undergone formal training and has a theoretical understanding of journalism principles. Furthermore, courses taken, grades earned, and any honors or awards received can also provide insights into the candidate's capabilities and dedication.

Navigating the Education Section of a News Writer Resume without Prior Experience

For a News Writer's CV with no experience, it would be appropriate to begin with the 'Education' section. This profession requires a strong foundation in communication, journalism, or a related field, and thus, highlighting these educational qualifications upfront can be advantageous. Through the education section, candidates can showcase their understanding of journalistic ethics, writing styles, and techniques, research skills, and their ability to interpret complex information, which are all key elements in news writing. The education section could include relevant coursework, projects, or academic achievements that demonstrate these competencies.

However, in the case of a News Writer with significant practical experience, such as internships, freelance projects, or contributions to school or local newspapers, this rule may not apply. In such cases, it would be more beneficial to start with an 'Experience' or 'Projects' section that highlights their practical work. This can immediately draw the recruiter's attention to their hands-on experience in the field, which is often highly valued in journalism. It allows the candidate to demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world context, and their potential for growth within the profession. Education, in this scenario, while important, would be secondary to practical experience and thus listed later in the CV.

Education:

Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, New York University, New York, NY, Expected Graduation: May 2023

  • Relevant Courses: News Writing, Media Law and Ethics, Digital Journalism, and Investigative Reporting
  • Cumulative GPA: 3.8/4.0

Associate of Arts in English, Riverside Community College, Riverside, CA, May 2021

  • Relevant Courses: Introduction to Journalism, Creative Writing, English Composition
  • Cumulative GPA: 3.7/4.0

High School Diploma, Riverside High School, Riverside, CA, May 2019

  • Honors: National Honor Society, Valedictorian
  • Extra-Curricular Activities: Editor of School Newspaper, Debate Team Captain

Honing Key Skills: Crafting an Effective Resume for a News Writer


News writer entry level

Highlighting Your Skills: Crafting a Compelling Resume for a News Writer Role Without Prior Experience

Skills are a critical component of any resume, serving as a clear indicator of a candidate's capabilities and proficiency. Recruiters often look for specific skills that align with the job requirements and the company's needs. These skills can range from technical abilities specific to the job, to soft skills like communication or problem-solving, and can significantly impact the hiring decision. The inclusion of relevant skills can set one candidate apart from another, showcasing their potential to perform and contribute effectively to the company.

When applying for a News Writer position without prior experience, emphasizing your skills becomes even more crucial. In the absence of direct job experience, recruiters will rely heavily on relevant skills to assess your suitability for the role. Skills such as strong research abilities, excellent written communication, attention to detail, ability to meet deadlines, and a keen understanding of current events can demonstrate your potential as a News Writer. By highlighting these skills, you can show that you have the necessary attributes to excel in the role, even without specific experience.

Essential Skills to Highlight on a Resume for Aspiring News Writers Without Experience

Writing a resume for a news writer position can be challenging, especially when you have no experience. Here are some essential technical skills and personal qualities that recruiters may consider valuable:

Technical skills:

  • Excellent command of language and grammar
  • Ability to write clear, concise, and grammatically correct copy
  • Strong research skills
  • Proficiency in using word processing software (like MS Word)
  • Knowledge of AP style or other news writing formats
  • Familiarity with content management systems (CMS)
  • Basic understanding of SEO principles
  • Knowledge of social media platforms and how to leverage them for news dissemination
  • Understanding of journalistic ethics and legal principles
  • Ability to meet tight deadlines

Personal qualities:

  • Curiosity and a keen interest in current affairs
  • Strong observational skills
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Creativity in generating story ideas
  • Patience and perseverance in following leads
  • Ability to work under pressure and handle stress
  • Flexibility to adjust in fast-paced news environments
  • Strong ethical judgment
  • Excellent team player.

Harnessing the Power of the Summary Section in Resumes for Aspiring News Writers


A summary in a CV of a news writer without experience is crucial as it can significantly sway the employer’s decision in your favor, despite your lack of professional experience. It serves as your professional introduction and presents a succinct overview of your skills, qualifications, and career objectives. It's your chance to grab the attention of the hiring manager by highlighting your writing abilities, research skills, communication competencies, and passion for journalism. A well-crafted summary can emphasize your educational achievements, internships, relevant coursework, or any school publications you have contributed to. It can also underscore your understanding of journalistic principles, current affairs, and social media trends. Additionally, it allows you to indicate your willingness to learn, adapt, and grow within the news writing field. The summary is not just about what you have done, but also about what you can offer to the organization. Thus, it plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between your lack of work experience and the employer's requirements.

Eager journalism graduate with a passion for storytelling, seeking to harness sharp writing skills as a News Writer. Highly skilled in research, interviewing, and content creation with a keen eye for detail. Adept at presenting complex information in a compelling and accessible manner. Committed to delivering high-quality news content that engages and informs readers.

Honing Your Resume: Essential Additions for Aspiring News Writers with No Experience


Including additional headings in a News Writer CV can be beneficial, especially for those without prior experience in the field. These additional categories provide an opportunity to showcase other skills or personal attributes that may not be directly related to news writing, but are still valuable and can set you apart from other applicants. For a News Writer CV, the categories "Languages" and "IT tools" can be particularly relevant.

Languages

Being multilingual is a significant advantage in the journalism industry. News stories often span across different regions and cultures, and being able to understand and communicate in various languages can open up a wider range of stories to cover. It also allows for direct communication with primary sources, reducing the risk of misinterpretation or misrepresentation. Therefore, including a languages section in your CV, detailing your proficiency in each language, can make you a much more attractive candidate for news writing roles.

IT Tools

In this digital age, journalism is no longer confined to the traditional pen and paper. News writers must be familiar with a variety of IT tools, from word processing software to content management systems, and even social media platforms. These tools are essential for researching, creating, and disseminating news stories. Including an "IT Tools" section in your CV, outlining your experience and proficiency with relevant software and platforms, can demonstrate your readiness to hit the ground running in a news writing role.

Crafting a Compelling Resume for Aspiring News Writers With No Experience


To stand out in the competitive field of journalism, it is crucial to create a compelling CV, especially when you don't have any experience. Here are some practical tips to improve your News Writer CV:

  1. Start with a strong objective statement: Your objective should highlight your career goals and ambitions in the field of news writing. It should be engaging and inspire the recruiter to read further.
  2. Highlight relevant coursework or academic projects: If you have studied journalism or a related field, mention any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your news writing abilities.
  3. Showcase transferable skills: If you don't have direct experience in news writing, highlighting transferable skills such as research, editing, and communication can show potential employers your potential.
  4. Include internships or volunteer work: Even if unpaid or not directly related to news writing, these experiences can demonstrate your commitment and work ethic.
  5. Mention any relevant certifications: If you have completed any journalism or news writing certifications, be sure to include them in your CV.
  6. Highlight your technological proficiency: In today's digital age, being proficient in using various software and technology platforms is a major plus. This could include social media management, content management systems, or even data analytics tools.
  7. Include a portfolio: If you have any samples of your writing, even from a school newspaper or blog, include them in your CV or provide a link to your online portfolio.
  8. Proofread diligently: As a news writer, you will be expected to produce error-free work. Make sure your CV reflects this by being meticulously proofread and free of typos or grammatical errors.

Crafting a Compelling Resume for Aspiring News Writers with No Experience


News writer entry level


Concluding this article, here are the vital points to consider when crafting your News Writer CV without experience:

  1. The arrangement and presentation of your CV can create a lasting impression. Keep it organized, neat, and professional.
  2. Start with a 'Profile Summary' section. As a budding news writer without experience, it's essential to highlight your passion and understanding of the industry.
  3. The 'Skills' section should be your focus point. Include relevant skills like research abilities, writing prowess, communication skills, and knowledge of media law and ethics.
  4. Don't underestimate the 'Education' section. Highlight any journalism or related courses you've undertaken that prove your knowledge and dedication to the field.
  5. Include a 'Projects or Publications' section. If you've had any articles, blogs, or pieces published, even in a school or university publication, be sure to mention this.
  6. Volunteer work or internships can be included under 'Experience'. This can show your willingness to learn and adapt.
  7. Finally, make sure to proofread your CV thoroughly. For a position that requires writing skills, any spelling or grammatical errors could be detriment

Crafting a Compelling Cover Letter for Entry-Level News Writer Positions


A cover letter is a crucial document that accompanies your resume when applying for a News Writer position, especially when you lack experience. This document provides an opportunity to express your passion and dedication for the role, even without prior work experience in the field. It provides a platform to showcase your writing skills, critical thinking, and attention to detail, which are all vital for a News Writer.

In your cover letter, make sure to mention why you are interested in the news industry and how your skills align with the job duties. If you find this task challenging, you can refer to our sample cover letters that are specifically designed for News Writer positions to guide you in crafting your own.

Frequently Asked Questions About Writing a Resume for a News Writer Position Without Experience

I don't have any experience as a News Writer. How do I make my CV appealing to potential employers?

Even without experience, you can highlight your skills that make you suitable for a news writing role. These may include strong research skills, ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, excellent written communication skills, and an understanding of media law and ethics. Include any relevant coursework or training you've completed, such as journalism or media studies. If you've written for a school newspaper, blog, or other platforms, you can use these as examples of your writing capabilities.

How should I structure my CV when applying for a News Writer position without experience?

Begin with a strong personal statement that outlines your interest in news writing and highlights your most relevant skills. Follow this with your education details, including any media or journalism-related courses or workshops you've attended. If you have any examples of your writing, such as articles in a school newspaper or personal blog posts, include them in a portfolio section. Lastly, list any work experience, even if it's not directly related to news writing, and draw attention to transferable skills.

What skills should I emphasize in my CV for a News Writer position, given that I have no experience?

Emphasize transferable skills such as strong written and verbal communication abilities, research proficiency, ability to work under strict deadlines, and keen attention to detail. Knowledge of current events and issues is also important for a News Writer, so be sure to mention your awareness and understanding of these topics. Any technical skills, such as familiarity with digital media tools, content management systems, or social media platforms, should also be highlighted.

Create your resume with the best templates

Resume Guide
Use this example
Content Score
of your resume
Get My Resume Score

Frequently Asked Questions About Writing a Resume for a News Writer Position Without Experience

I don't have any experience as a News Writer. How do I make my CV appealing to potential employers?

Even without experience, you can highlight your skills that make you suitable for a news writing role. These may include strong research skills, ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, excellent written communication skills, and an understanding of media law and ethics. Include any relevant coursework or training you've completed, such as journalism or media studies. If you've written for a school newspaper, blog, or other platforms, you can use these as examples of your writing capabilities.

How should I structure my CV when applying for a News Writer position without experience?

Begin with a strong personal statement that outlines your interest in news writing and highlights your most relevant skills. Follow this with your education details, including any media or journalism-related courses or workshops you've attended. If you have any examples of your writing, such as articles in a school newspaper or personal blog posts, include them in a portfolio section. Lastly, list any work experience, even if it's not directly related to news writing, and draw attention to transferable skills.

What skills should I emphasize in my CV for a News Writer position, given that I have no experience?

Emphasize transferable skills such as strong written and verbal communication abilities, research proficiency, ability to work under strict deadlines, and keen attention to detail. Knowledge of current events and issues is also important for a News Writer, so be sure to mention your awareness and understanding of these topics. Any technical skills, such as familiarity with digital media tools, content management systems, or social media platforms, should also be highlighted.

This is some text inside of a div block.

What’s a Rich Text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

Static and dynamic content editing

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

How to customize formatting for each rich text

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

Create your resume in 15 minutes

Our free collection of expertly designed cover letter templates will help you stand out from the crowd and get one step closer to your dream job.

Create my resume