How do I get a job at a newspaper?

Question

I just received my BA in English and would like to work for a newspaper in some way shape or form. But every ad I see for newspaper work they want writing clips or newspaper writing samples, but I don't have any samples of work besides the papers I have written for my classes. I write well, I just don't have experience writing for a paper. How do I go about getting a job @ a paper? Thanks.

Answer 1

There are many small local circulars or other papers that regularly accept freelance, or 'stringer' articles regardless of your experience. Take a job (any job at this point) which pays the bills, then during your free time go to any festival, city meetings, movies, plays, whatever, and write articles. I highly recommend picking up the 2006 edition of the AP Style book, as most papers utilize this format for their articles. Accumulate articles into a portfolio, then go applying. One of my college English profs was a copy editor at the LA Times even though he majored in English. Good luck!

Answer 2

You're problem, I believe, is that you didn't do an internship. Try submitting your papers to an editor. You may have to try freelance writing for a while until you make a name for yourself or get something published. Getting a job at a newspaper company as a writer takes a long time. You have to earn it. I would suggest even going back to the college you went to and ask them if you can still go through an internship program. Best wishes and take care.

Answer 3

I Go directly to the newspaper office and ask for the person in charge. Explain what you just told us. I got hired without any experience so you should be ab le to too. I went to the city meetings and took notes. I wrote the article about the meeting and it was published every week.

Answer 4

Start by looking up daily papers in your area. Call the circulation department for each and advise you are looking for a route. If this isn't possible think of other things you could do. Wash cars for people in the neighborhood, cut grass, walk their dogs. Think about things you can do and go for it. Start small asking for a few people and word will spread.

Answer 5

just apply - there are plenty of paper routes available!