How to Write a Journalist Cover Letter (Step-by-Step Guide)

Breaking into journalism is a challenge, but with a strong cover letter, you can set yourself apart from other candidates with similar qualifications as you. Whether you need a cover letter or a CV for your first job or applying for an internship, we guide you through every step to help you launch your journalism career with confidence and flair.

In this step-by-step guide, we cover:

• Examples of different journalist roles tailored to various industries

• Tips on how to write a good cover letter

• How to format and structure your cover letter without compromising the content

• Many more!

Discover our diverse collection of cover letter templates to help you streamline your application.

Journalist cover letter example

Download this journalist cover letter sample in PDF

Maya Anderson has opted for the Wheaton cover letter template that closely matches her CV. It's short, easy to read, and follows a modern format. She strategically places her recent experience at the beginning and breaks down her skills and experience throughout different paragraphs. Her simple CV highlights her investigative and video journalism expertise, data analysis, interviewing, editing, and news reporting.

Do you need a CV? Check out our matching journalist cover letter example that gives a deeper look into the skills and different sections needed to succeed in the role.

What makes a good cover letter? 

The three key components of a great journalist cover letter are as follows:

• Personal content: Customise your cover letter to each role you apply for, ensuring you a personal touch and reasons for applying.

• Concise form: Keep it brief and focused on a specific role you're applying for, highlighting your most recent experience.

• Convincing qualifications: Explain how your background aligns with the job requirements using specific examples.

Use this cover letter example

Start now

What to include in a cover letter for a journalist?

A well-written journalist cover letter includes your personal information at the top. Start off by filling in your personal details, such as your full name, location, phone number, and email address.

Include the following must-have sections for your journalist cover letter to ensure it aligns with the job's requirements:

• Personal details

• Salutation

• Introduction

• Body

• Conclusion.

• Sign-off.

Check out our step-by-step guide on how to structure your cover letter for more insights into different sections.

How to write a cover letter for a journalist with no experience

Focus on your transferrable skills and align them with your career goals. Here's how to showcase your skills and qualifications even without experience:

• Display transferable skills: Emphasise your investigative research, writing, interviewing, and strong storytelling abilities.

• Show willingness to learn: we recommend emphasising your eagerness to learn by showing your courses and passion for journalism and the media industry.

• Mention relevant experience: briefly add previous positions, like writing for school newspapers, volunteering for a news agency, or running a personal blog.

See our article on how to write a CV with no experience for further guidance on how to align your experience with the job's requirements.

How to start a journalist cover letter 

Similar to a personal profile on a CV, the opening paragraph of your journalist cover letter should immediately grab the hiring manager's attention. Personalising your letter helps you make a lasting impression and highlights your enthusiasm for the role. Focus on showcasing your key achievements, passion for journalism, and ability to produce compelling content.

• Write a strong introduction by summarising your key qualifications and relevant skills, mirroring the key points from your personal profile (also known as personal statement).

• Compelling hook that highlights your passion for journalism and the specific reasons you’re excited about this opportunity.

• Clearly mention the exact role you’re applying for, such as news reporter or features writer.

• Address the letter directly to the hiring manager, using "Dear Mr/Ms (Last Name)" if you know their name. If not, "Dear Hiring Manager" is acceptable.

Looking for more tips? Refer to our article on how to start a cover letter.

For more career advice, be sure to check out our related blog article about remote vs hybrid work models.

Check out our sports CV examples for more valuable examples and expert tips, whether you're a beginner or an Olympic medallist.

Refer to our related article about fashion designer for more inspiration and tips.

How to write the body of a journalist cover letter

The body of your journalism cover letter should detail your key skills and qualifications, focusing on your reporting experience, multimedia abilities, and noteworthy stories from your portfolio. Usually, this section has two to three paragraphs, each highlighting different aspects of your journalism background.

To strengthen the core of your cover letter, we suggest you add strong action verbs to strengthen your chances of success. Check out our list of top 10 action verbs for your journalist CV or cover letter below:

• Presented

• Pitched

• Investigated

• Researched

• Initiated

• Analysed

• Published

• Interviewed

• Developed

• Reported.

For more information, check out our related articles on how to list CV achievements and CV education sections and apply these insights to your cover letter.

If you have a creative flair and passion for music, consider checking out our related guide for a musician CV.

For more tips, check out our designer CV and IT CV examples, which show you can specialise in one of the gaming industries.

How to end a journalist cover letter

The closing needs to be short and straightforward, and close off with a phrase like 'Sincerely' or 'Best regards', followed by your full name. Additionally, we suggest you mention your attachments, like your CV, work samples, portfolio, and references. The key is to keep it positive and show your desire to learn and progress in the field.

The closing section of your journalism cover letter is essential. It should:

• Summarise your interest in the position.

• Reiterate your enthusiasm and thank the hiring manager.

• Mention enclosed documents (CV, references, portfolio) and offer to provide more information if needed.

For more information, check out our related blog article on how to end a cover letter.

See our related social media CV example to bring your entertainment career to new heights.

Check out our writer CV and writer cover letter if you're into reporting and have a flair for writing and editing.

To learn more, check out our related video editor CV detailing the crucial skills and experiences that can help you land your dream job in video journalism.

Key takeaways

For more inspiration, take a look at our diverse collection of cover letter examples for the UK market to help you streamline your application. Before you submit it, we encourage you to thoroughly proofread your cover letter and ensure all the information aligns closely with the job description's requirements.

Next steps?

To help you create an outstanding CV, explore our services below:

• CV builder: Explore one of our professional CV templates to help you create tailored and well-formatted documents.

• Cover letter builder: Apply for a job with a matching cover letter template, ensuring a clear layout so you can easily personalise and adjust it to your career goals.

• CV Writing service: Contact one of our experts for feedback and quick, professional advice on tailoring your CV to a specific job. 

• Blog: Read our guides and brief articles to educate yourself on the best strategies to improve your job prospects. 

Explore our diverse cover letter examples and CV examples designed to align with your writing career objectives. For more information, visit CVMaker for more detailed information on all the available resources and tools.

Take a look at one of our blog articles

• How to send a CV via email

• How to write a LinkedIn profile

• Job opportunities for international students

Customise this cover letter example

Start now

FAQ

How long should a journalist cover letter be?

A well-structured cover letter should be between 250 and 400 words, equivalent to half a page to one full page. It should clearly express your interest in the role, highlight your relevant skills and experiences, and include a call to action.

For more tips, refer to our article about the ideal cover letter length.

How do you write a catchy cover letter for a journalist?

There is no single formula for what makes your cover letter eye-catching. It’s a combination of personal touch, qualifications, and motivation. Tailor your letter to the specific role and organisation, and use your unique voice to convey your passion for journalism. Include anecdotes or achievements that highlight your suitability for the position. Ensure the hook and end of your cover letter are spot-on and address the needs.

For more inspiration and design tips, see our related blog article on the best colour for a CV.

What are good skills to include in a journalist cover letter?

The key skills include storytelling, investigative research, interviewing, and writing. Additionally, highlight your adaptability, ability to work under pressure, and proficiency with multimedia tools and social media platforms.

Refer to our related blog article about the top skills employers look for.

What is the best format for a journalist cover letter?

The best format includes a clear structure: an engaging introduction, a detailed body showcasing your qualifications, and a strong closing. Ensure that your letter is well-organised, free from errors, and reflects your writing skills.

For more formatting tips, make sure to see our related blog article on the best font for a cover letter.

What are the top 10 most in-demand job types for a journalist in the UK?

A career in journalism, also known as reporter, press officer, or features writer, provides ample opportunities, which include but is not limited to:

1. Digital Journalist

2. Investigative Journalist

3. Broadcast Journalist

4. Newspaper Journalist

5. Magazine Journalist

6. Press Officer

7. Features Writer

8. Political Correspondent

9. Health Journalist

10. Social Media Journalist

For more tips, take a look at the National Career Service site providing further guidance on job requirements, opportunities, and next steps.