Gray Television Producer Interview Questions
& Process

It was a simple, straightforward chat. I enjoyed it. It wasn't too tough and only took about 15-20 minutes. Mostly it was to see if we'd be a good match.

I interviewed with the incoming news director for the Local News Live national newscast out of DC. After two interviews with him, a writing test, and then a final interview with his GM, and then he asked for my references. Never in my nearly decade of professional experience have I had a job ask for my references and then not provide me with a job offer. However after the reference interview I was then ghosted. No explanation. No response to three follow up emails. Both my references assured me they provided nothing but praise about my work ethic. I have used both these references reliably for over 5-years, so I know it wasn’t my references that caused this. It’s been over a month since I had my first interview and writing test and I can honestly say it’s disturbing how blatantly they wasted my time. First off, the writing test provided was ridiculously long, even though it was simple. Most of the exercises were repeated multiple times, yet given different titles. I would avoid this employer. I have over 8-years experience in broadcast journalism and if that’s how their news director treats me I can only imagine how they treat newer professionals.

It was a pretty fast and friendly process. Started online, then an in-person interview if possible, followed by phone and email to finalize the deal. This is pretty standard for the news industry. I've worked at two places before, and moving between them is usually straightforward within the existing contracts.