
USA TODAY Co. Journalist Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 9 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at USA TODAY Co..
Editor
HR folks are really involved at the start, then they kinda vanish once you start talking to the hiring managers. It was all pretty standard and a decent experience. Corporate interviews can be a political minefield, mostly based on who you know, which is pretty normal for big companies.
- Describe how you handle working with people you don't get along with.
Journalist
The interview process was straightforward and efficient. They inquired about my aspirations and objectives should I be hired. There was also a discussion about the Talent Development program, highlighting that prior internship experience increases the likelihood of securing a spot. The interview was a one-on-one session; the interviewers were pleasant but maintained a serious demeanor. They were accommodating and aimed to make me feel at ease.
- Could you share your weaknesses?
- What are your long-term career goals?
- What are your aspirations and goals if you get the job?
Journalist
The hiring process involved an initial chat with HR, followed by a meeting with the editor. Candidates needed to submit a writing test and have their clip files prepared. There was also a practical try-out story assigned with a same-day deadline and a requirement to be well-versed in current events by reading the paper.
- Standard format.
USA TODAY Co. Journalist Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from USA TODAY Co. interview reports.
“How would you report on the recent shooting incident in Charleston?”
Read reports →“What's your approach to covering the current drought news?”
Read reports →“What's your strategy for gathering news?”
Read reports →“Can you tell me about other publications you've written for?”
Read reports →“Can you discuss your experience managing freelance writers?”
Read report →“Describe how you handle working with people you don't get along with.”
Read report →“What are your long-term career goals?”
Read report →“What are your aspirations and goals if you get the job?”
Read report →“Why were you interested in this position?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 9 USA TODAY Co. interview reports.