Are you comfortable with live reporting and on-air situations? Can you give an example?

Sample answer to the question

Yes, I am comfortable with live reporting and on-air situations. In fact, I thrive in high-pressure environments and enjoy the excitement of delivering news to viewers in real-time. One example of my experience with live reporting was when I covered a breaking news event in my previous role as a news reporter. I was on the scene within minutes of the incident, providing live updates and interviewing witnesses. Despite the chaos and fast-paced nature of the situation, I remained calm and composed, delivering accurate information to the viewers. This experience solidified my ability to think on my feet and maintain professionalism in live on-air situations.

A more solid answer

Yes, I am very comfortable with live reporting and thrive in on-air situations. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience in delivering live updates and conducting interviews in real-time. One example that stands out is when I covered a major sporting event. I was stationed on the sidelines, providing live commentary and conducting interviews with athletes and coaches during halftime. It required quick thinking, excellent communication skills, and the ability to engage viewers. The feedback I received from viewers and colleagues showcased my strong on-camera presence and my ability to handle the pressure of live reporting. I am confident in my ability to excel in any on-air situation and provide viewers with accurate and compelling news.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provided more specific details about the candidate's experience with live reporting and on-air situations. It mentioned a specific example of covering a major sporting event and highlighted the skills and qualities required in such situations. However, it could still be improved by providing more details about the candidate's ability to adapt to changing circumstances and handle unexpected challenges.

An exceptional answer

Yes, I am not only comfortable with live reporting and on-air situations, but I excel in them. My extensive experience in journalism has equipped me with the skills and qualities needed to deliver accurate and engaging news to viewers in real-time. One example of my ability to handle live reporting and on-air situations is when I covered a natural disaster. As a reporter on the ground, I provided live updates, interviewed survivors, and conveyed the urgency and impact of the situation to viewers. The unpredictable nature of natural disasters required me to think quickly, stay composed, and adapt to changing circumstances. I remained calm under pressure and effectively communicated critical information to keep the audience informed and safe. This experience showcased my strong news judgment, ability to anticipate audience interest, and commitment to delivering quality journalism in live on-air situations.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer went above and beyond by providing a detailed example of covering a natural disaster and highlighting the candidate's ability to handle unexpected challenges. It emphasized the candidate's skills in news judgment and audience engagement. The answer also showcased the candidate's commitment to delivering quality journalism in live on-air situations. However, it could still be improved by mentioning any specific multimedia journalism skills and experience.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with the basics of live reporting and on-air broadcasting techniques, such as camera presence, voiceover skills, and improvisation.
Practice delivering news updates in a live setting, either through mock interviews or recordings, to enhance your on-air confidence.
Stay updated with current events and practice providing concise and accurate information in real-time.
Develop strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with interviewees comfortably.
Consider taking courses or workshops on multimedia journalism to enhance your skills in photo and video editing.
Research the news outlet you are applying to and be familiar with their style and target audience.

What interviewers are evaluating

Experience with live reporting
Comfort with live on-air situations