Q. I apologize for the urgency of my question.
I've just applied to a journalism job. I've been out of news journalism since 2006 and my recent clips are weak. I sent the editor mostly hard news/investigative writing I did in college.
I heard back from the editor immediately asking if I had any more recent clips. I don't have any that fit with the paper in question. Should I say no, or should I send him my recent (but weak) soft feature clips?
I feel like I need to give this editor a response by today, but I want to minimize the damage.
Any advice would be appreciated. Again, I sincerely apologize for being so drastic and in need with such short notice. I have no clue what to tell the hiring editor except, "I don't have anything else that fits with your paper that is recent."
Thank you for reading my plea for help.
Michael A. You're in a spot. You must provide something -- either clips or an explanation. Stonewalling won't help.
So, send what he asked for along with a well-written note explaining the clips and saying that your recent work has taken you away from what you'd really like to be doing, but that you have learned some things while doing it.
Of course, this letter must be very well-written and express some of your passion for journalism.
While you are not in a great position, keep perspective. All that is at stake is a chance for an interview. The job you are looking for is not what is at risk here. That is still several steps away.
