How to Be Feature Writer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

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Steps How to Become

1. Earn a degree in Journalism, English, Communications, or a related field. A degree program in journalism or related field will provide you with a strong foundation in writing, research, and communication skills.
2. Develop your writing skills. You need to have a strong command over the language and be able to write clearly and concisely. Take classes in writing, literature, and communications to hone your skills.
3. Build a portfolio. Build up a portfolio of your work, which you can use to demonstrate your writing ability to potential clients.
4. Get some experience. Look for opportunities to write for local newspaper, magazines, or websites. This will give you valuable experience and help you build up your portfolio.
5. Network with other writers and editors. Make connections with other writers and editors in your field. This will help you get more jobs and remain informed on industry trends.
6. Pitch story ideas to editors. Develop story ideas and contact editors about writing for their publication or website. You should also consider joining a writer’s organization to help you find more work.
7. Become an expert in the field. Research your topic thoroughly and become an expert in the field. This will help you write more informed and interesting articles for your readers.

In order to stay current and qualified in any profession, it is important to stay on top of the latest trends, technologies, and regulations. To do this, one should stay abreast of industry news, attend educational conferences, complete relevant certifications, and pursue continuing education opportunities. Doing this will not only help ensure that one is up to date on the latest developments, but also that they are well-qualified to do their job.

actively participating in relevant professional networks allows one to stay connected to other professionals in their field, which can also help foster career growth. Taking the initiative to stay informed and qualified will ensure success in any profession.

You may want to check Editor, Multimedia Journalist, and Magazine Editor for alternative.

Job Description

1. Research and develop story ideas and angles.
2. Interview people to gather quotes, facts and stories.
3. Write articles, blog posts and other content that adheres to the publication’s guidelines.
4. Develop relationships with sources and other contacts in the industry.
5. Edit and proofread written content for accuracy and clarity.
6. Follow up on leads and tips to uncover interesting stories.
7. Develop a deep understanding of the publication’s audience and their interests.
8. Monitor trends in the industry or topic area to stay ahead of the competition.
9. Attend events to gather information and ideas for article content.
10. Pitch article ideas to editors and producers.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Excellent writing and research skills.
2. Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.
3. Strong knowledge of grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
4. Ability to write engaging, creative, and informative content.
5. Excellent interviewing skills.
6. Knowledge of current affairs and ability to source relevant topics.
7. Ability to think critically and form opinion pieces based on research.
8. Ability to create effective headlines and subheadings.
9. Experience working with editors and publishers.
10. Proficiency in using design software such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop.

Having effective communication skills is the most important skill to have for a successful career. Clear communication enables one to share their ideas and thoughts with others, and to clearly express their opinions and feelings. Furthermore, by using strong communication skills, one can effectively solve problems, negotiate, and build relationships.

By being able to articulate thoughts and feelings, one can form stronger connections with others and maintain healthy relationships. effective communication helps to maintain focus while working on projects and tasks, as well as increase productivity. Lastly, communication skills can help one to better understand the needs of their customers and colleagues, which helps to create a more positive work environment and increase the chances of success.

Opinion Writer, Digital Journalist, and Radio Journalist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have as a feature writer?
• What makes you passionate about writing features?
• Describe a feature story you've written that you are particularly proud of.
• How do you ensure accuracy when researching and writing a feature?
• What specific resources do you use to research for feature stories?
• How do you create a compelling narrative arc for a feature story?
• Describe the process you take when coming up with ideas for features.
• What techniques do you use to engage readers and draw them into a feature?
• How do you balance fact-based writing with creative storytelling?
• What strategies do you use to ensure a feature meets the publication's editorial standards?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Word Processor. A tool used to create documents such as letters, reports, and books. (Eg: Microsoft Word)
2. Spreadsheet Software. A tool used to manage, store and manipulate data in a tabular format. (Eg: Microsoft Excel)
3. Database Software. A tool used to store, organize and manipulate large amounts of data. (Eg: Microsoft Access)
4. Desktop Publishing Software. A tool used to create professional-looking documents such as newspapers, magazines and brochures. (Eg: Adobe InDesign)
5. Content Management System (CMS). A tool used to manage content on websites. (Eg: WordPress)
6. Image Editing Software. A tool used to edit and manipulate digital images. (Eg: Adobe Photoshop)
7. Video Editing Software. A tool used to edit, create and manipulate digital videos. (Eg: Adobe Premiere Pro)
8. Writing Tools. A set of tools used to help writers plan and produce content faster and more efficiently. (Eg: Scrivener)

Professional Organizations to Know

1. American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA)
2. National Association of Science Writers (NASW)
3. Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ)
4. Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE)
5. National Press Photographers Association (NPPA)
6. International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
7. American Copy Editors Society (ACES)
8. National Writers Union (NWU)
9. Authors Guild
10. Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ)

We also have Investigative Producer, Food Writer, and Chief Editor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

1. Lead. The lead sentence or paragraph of a feature article, which often summarizes the main idea or theme of the article.
2. Angle. The approach taken by the writer in order to emphasize the importance of the topic or story.
3. Human Interest. A type of feature story that focuses on the lives and experiences of individuals, often in an emotional or compelling way.
4. Profile. A feature story that provides an in-depth look at an individual, often including interviews and anecdotes.
5. Narrative. A type of feature story that follows a person or event from beginning to end in a chronological order.
6. Investigation. A type of feature story that involves research and reporting on a particular topic or issue.
7. Feature Writing Style. The approach taken when writing a feature story, characterized by its more conversational tone and use of literary devices such as metaphors, similes, and anecdotes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Feature Writer?

A Feature Writer is a type of journalist who specializes in writing in-depth stories about topics or people, often with the aim of entertaining, informing or inspiring readers.

What topics do Feature Writers typically write about?

Feature Writers typically write about current events, people, travel, lifestyle, culture, and entertainment.

How long should a Feature Writer's article typically be?

A Feature Writer's article typically ranges from 800 to 2500 words.

What skills are needed to be a successful Feature Writer?

To be a successful Feature Writer, you must have excellent writing skills, research skills, and the ability to tell a compelling story. Additionally, you must be knowledgeable in the topics you are writing about.

What is the most important part of a Feature Writers job?

The most important part of a Feature Writer's job is to write compelling stories that engage and inform readers.

What are jobs related with Feature Writer?

• Crime Reporter
• Photojournalist
• Court Reporter
• Medical Writer
• Financial Reporter
• Magazine Journalist
• Fashion Writer
• Education Reporter
• Correspondent
• Travel Writer

Web Resources

• Feature Writing | Harvard University pll.harvard.edu
• Feature Writing: Tips, Types & Importance - Leverage Edu leverageedu.com
• Journalism: Feature Writing – Narrative Storytelling and Writing – … featurewriting.commons.gc.cuny.edu