Sample interview questions: Can you share an example of a challenging news story you worked on and how you handled it?
Sample answer:
Certainly, here’s an example of a challenging news story I worked on and how I handled it:
Challenging News Story:
Topic: Uncovering a Local Corruption Scandal
Situation: I received a tip from an anonymous source alleging that several city officials were involved in a bribery scheme. The accusations were serious, but I knew I had to proceed cautiously to protect the source’s identity and ensure the integrity of the investigation.
Approach:
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Verification and Research: I began by verifying the source’s information through multiple channels. I checked public records, conducted interviews with individuals familiar with the situation, and cross-referenced the allegations with other sources to ensure their credibility.
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Building a Relationship with Sources: I cultivated relationships with various sources, including whistleblowers, witnesses, and experts in local politics and law enforcement. Establishing trust and rapport allowed me to access crucial information that would not have been readily available.
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Collaboration with Colleagues: I worked closely with a team of investigative journalists, pooling our resources and expertise to gather evidence and corroborate the allegations. Collaboration enabled us to uncover additional details and perspectives, strengthening the overall story.
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Ethical Considerations: Throughout the investigation, I prioritized ethical journalism practices. I ensured the protection of sources’ identities, balanced the reporting with multiple viewpoints, and maintained transparency in the storytelling process.
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Stakeholder Engagement: I communicated with city officials, seeking their responses and perspectives on the allegations. This allowed for a comprehensive and balanced presentation of the story, ensuring that all parties had the opportu… Read full answer