Storyteller Reporter I

New Posted 27 November 2023 | Knoxville, TN | Gannett | USA TODAY NETWORK

We’re seeking a reporter who wants to put a spotlight on the people, organizations and places that make our community unique. We’re creating a space for sense of place stories than connect people instead of dividing them.

Our Storyteller reporter will have two primary responsibilities: discovering and sharing stories that inspire and engage and taking advantage of our extensive archives to bring back moments from the past that shaped our community.

Our Storyteller reporter is a pro at finding out what people are talking about and finding the sharpest angle to connect with readers and is comfortable in an array of coverage spaces.

Accuracy and authenticity are vital. Creativity and confidence are musts. Reporting on a regular cadence is core to the position.

Here are some nuts and bolts: The hours fall within a regular workday Monday-Friday; social media fluency is a core requirement; this is not an investigative beat.

Typical Job Duties

Creates storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages our audience.
Explores and reports on sense of place and inspirational pieces that connect with our audiences’ passions.
Works toward becoming the community’s leading voice in storytelling.
Demonstrates clear concise writing skills and an emphasis on “why this is important to me.”
Understands that people love to read about where they’re from and how it’s viewed from home and from outside.
Works with our content strategist and audience analyst to evaluate what's working and what's not and develops ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
Collaborates with our content team to provide all appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics). Captures basic photos and video as needed.
Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.
Performs other duties as necessary.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in experience and education.
Record of excellence in storytelling
Strong news judgment.
Knowledge of AP style.
SEO proficiency.
Excellent communication skills.
Passion about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.
Expertise using social media such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat to enhance reporting and promote stories.
Knowledge of reporting ethics and sourcing.
Ability to collaborate well with others and to work within geographically separated teams on the biggest stories.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.


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