Journalism Intern

Job Description

Job Title: Journalism Intern (Unpaid)

Overview

The Journalism Intern will play a crucial role in supporting the Columbus Blue Jackets’ digital content strategy. This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain valuable professional experience within a major professional sports organization. Working directly under the guidance of the Team Reporter, the intern will be responsible for creating compelling content for the team’s official website (BlueJackets.com) and various social media channels. This experience will encompass comprehensive coverage of the team’s activities, both on the ice during games and off the ice through community events and organizational initiatives. The intern will actively contribute to telling the Blue Jackets’ story, gaining foundational knowledge and practical skills in sports journalism and digital content creation.

Duties and Tasks

• Content Production: Assist in the end-to-end process of producing and capturing engaging digital content for BlueJackets.com and the club’s social media platforms, including writing articles, developing social posts, and potentially assisting with multimedia elements.
• Collaborative Content Creation: Work in close conjunction with the Team Reporter to brainstorm content ideas, refine concepts, and develop the most effective strategies for execution across digital channels.
• Digital Platform Proficiency: Gain hands-on experience in leveraging various social media platforms and multimedia avenues to enhance the depth and reach of team coverage.
• Relationship Building: Develop and maintain professional relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including public relations personnel and representatives from the Blue Jackets Foundation, to facilitate the creation of high-quality content regarding team performance and community engagement.
• Performance Analytics: Familiarize oneself with website and social media metrics to analyze content performance, identify successful strategies, and understand audience engagement patterns.
• Fan Engagement: Contribute to fostering exceptional fan experiences on digital platforms through the development and deployment of creative and interactive content.
• Digital Trend Awareness: Stay continuously informed about the latest digital trends, best practices, and technological advancements in sports media and content marketing.

Learning Objectives

• Professional Journalism Experience: Acquire invaluable hands-on journalism and social media experience within the dynamic environment of a professional National Hockey League (NHL) team.
• Storytelling Diversity: Learn to identify and implement various storytelling techniques and narrative approaches to effectively engage a diverse sports audience across different platforms.
• Enhanced Writing Skills: Significantly improve writing, editing, and proofreading skills through direct mentorship and collaborative work with the experienced Team Reporter.

Intern Schedule

• College Credit: This internship is eligible for college credit, subject to academic institution requirements.
• Weekly Commitment: A commitment of approximately 20 intern office hours is available each week.
• Internship Timeline: The internship will run from May through August.

Requirements

• Academic Status: Must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university (sophomore level or above preferred). A major in Journalism or Communications is strongly preferred.
• Software Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in standard Microsoft Office programs (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• NHL Knowledge: Possess a strong working knowledge of the National Hockey League (NHL), with specific familiarity and passion for the Columbus Blue Jackets organization.
• Social Media Acumen: A solid understanding and working knowledge of various popular social media platforms and their respective best practices.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills are essential for collaborating with team members and engaging with the public.
• Work Ethic: Ability to thrive and perform effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven work environment.
• Organizational Skills: Exceptional time management skills, coupled with strong organizational abilities and a self-motivated approach to tasks.
• Attention to Detail: Must possess excellent grammar, punctuation, and proofreading skills to ensure high-quality content.
• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively and collaboratively as part of a dynamic team.
• Compensation: Please note, this is an unpaid internship.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.