The Gannett Florida Sports Network, part of Gannett Co., Inc. and the USA TODAY NETWORK, is seeking a dynamic digital journalist to join our trending team. The digital-first writer supports and supplements sports coverage around the state with audience-focused, timely content on the topics of interest in the sports world of the Sunshine State. That includes but is certainly not limited to: Professional sports (NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, MLS, etc.), NASCAR, the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, pro tennis, pickleball, college athletics, high school athletics and the outdoors. Understanding tactics for growing readership is a requirement.
The ideal candidate will be comfortable monitoring and identifying sports stories that matter most in the moment and then utilizing a mastery of social media winning SEO techniques to maximize readership. They will be prepared to produce quick-hitting content whenever opportunities arise and then to capitalize on them with clean and accurate writing.
The candidate will need to be a self-starter with a knack for not only recognizing the buzzing story, but for anticipating the stories to come. The writer will be versed in multiple platforms of social media (Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, etc.) and will know how to utilize them not only to find stories, but to find readers. The writer must also be diverse in sports knowledge and be willing and able to jump on trending stories in a variety of topics.
Ambitious, enthusiastic candidates need only apply. We need someone to hit the ground running with a thirst for delivering content to a web of users that accounted for over 50 million pageviews across the Florida network in 2023. We’re looking to grow that number and as part of the trending team, our ideal candidate will play a pivotal role in making that happen.
Qualifications
Bachelor's in Communication, Journalism, or equivalent experience and education.
At least 5 years of reporting/editing experience.
Proficiency building a brand on social media.
Effective communicator; able to get along with diverse personalities.
Able to multitask and excel under intense deadline pressure in a rapidly changing industry.
Knows how to use time efficiently in a 24-hour newsroom.
Works collaboratively within a cross-functional environment.
Deep understanding of and curiosity about competition for our customers’ time and money.
Self-motivation and self-direction.
Applies innovative, creative thinking to support Free Press goals.
Writing, spelling, grammar, AP and local style.
Command of media law and Principles of Ethical Conduct.
Valid driver's license required.
About
We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don’t limit your upload to a resume; show us what you’ve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order:
Your resume - one to two pages.
A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you’ve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.
It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.
#Newsgnt
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing
Industries
Media Production
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