How to Address Employment Gaps on Your Resume (Without Losing the Interview)

HR professionals share exactly how to explain gaps, what language to use, and where to address time off on your resume.

Kristen Fischer is a freelance writer, journalist, and copywriter with over 20 years of experience, currently serving as a health writer for AARP with previous staff roles at WebMD and WW. Her work has appeared in Prevention, Healthline, Woman's Day, Parade, and Writer's Digest, and she is the author of four books.

7 min read • Originally published February 5, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Kristen Fischer

7 min read • Originally published February 5, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

It’s an age-old conundrum: whether you were unemployed for a while or took a leave of absence, how do you address date gaps on your resume?

Traditionally, there are two schools of thought: ignore the gap and deal with it when you speak to a hiring manager, or be upfront about it so you don’t have to choose your words carefully during the interview—assuming you get that far.

We asked several HR and career experts to settle the issue once and for all.

Be Truthful About Employment Gaps

“Be proactive—address it upfront,” suggests Heather Huhman, a former hiring manager and founder of Come Recommended in Washington, D.C. “In a competitive job market, employers are pickier about who they interview. Having obvious gaps of employment makes many hiring managers wary about you—whether it’s a fair assumption about your character or not.”

Amy Phillip, a Brooklyn-based career coach and resume writer who formerly worked as an HR director, agrees that you have to be honest about gaps, no matter how short.

“If you don’t address gaps, you won’t get an interview,” she warns. “The more transparent you can be, the better.”

If you don’t explain professional time off in your resume, a hiring manager may infer any number of things about you—and that could cost you the interview.

“You don’t want to leave anything open to interpretation,” Phillip adds. By addressing it upfront, questions about why you took time off are out of the hiring manager’s mind before they even meet you.

Keep Dates Simple

One way people minimize the appearance of resume gaps is to list only years of employment rather than months. So if you were out of work during the summer but employed by October, it still looks like continuous employment.

But should you disclose every short-term break? It depends.

Phillip never references months on a resume. Dawn Bugni, Master Resume Writer, says she only lists months when it helps a client.

For example, if you were laid off in June, you may want to note that your sabbatical began then. “If the search is protracted and the month becomes a detriment, switch to years only,” she notes.

How to Reference Employment Gaps

So you’re going to address the gap—where exactly do you include it?

Phillip suggests referencing time off exactly where the gap appears chronologically in your work history, or placing the note at the end of your professional experience section.

If you have more than two periods of unemployment to explain, put the reference at the bottom and state both dates in one statement.

What Language to Use

The less detail you share, the better. The last thing a recruiter wants to see is intimate details of why you took time off.

Phillip says including fluff or filler is never a good idea. Instead, include a one- or two-line note stating that you took a “professional sabbatical,“ followed by the dates.

Important: “Don’t use the words ‘leave of absence,'” cautions Phillip. In HR terminology, that implies a medical or family-related leave, which isn’t always viewed favorably. “Professional sabbatical” implies time off from your professional life without getting too personal.

“Job seekers need to focus on the positive done and skills gained while between positions, not on explaining why they were between positions,” Bugni adds.

Some may argue that being vague still omits the truth. But Phillip says by simply referencing your sabbatical, you can explain it during an interview if asked—without having to address the elephant in the room.

Fill in the Gaps with Activity

Most professionals who were laid off didn’t spend all their time watching TV. Instead, many kept busy by attending networking events, interning or volunteering, taking professional development courses, or going back to school.

Jobs aren’t always easy to come by, and it’s not uncommon for people to be unemployed for a year or more. By including these activities in your professional experience section, you’re not ignoring the gap—you’re showing you stayed productive during it.

A recruiter will see that although you weren’t “working,” you didn’t spend your days waiting for the phone to ring.

“Put it under ‘Professional Experience,'” says Phillip. “I would not separate that out to a separate section.”

Phillip recently worked with a young architect who took five years off to have children but wanted to return to her profession. She noted her time as a new mom on her resume and received plenty of calls. She had to take a step down to get back into the field, but she got a job, and her gap did not hold her back.

“The gap wasn’t even a question during the interview, because it was already addressed in the resume,” Phillip says.

Rethink Your Cover Letter Strategy

Many people omit gaps from their resume and explain them in the cover letter instead. But Phillip says this can waste your time. Why? Because most cover letters don’t get read.

She admits that during her time as a hiring manager, she only read a cover letter if the applicant was from out of town and needed to discuss relocation expectations. Otherwise, the cover letter was futile.

That’s not the viewpoint of all hiring managers, and many companies require cover letters. However, Phillip suggests not using the cover letter as your only means of explaining gaps.

Bugni agrees: “There is no guarantee a cover letter will be read in the order intended, if at all. I do not risk sharing anything important only in the cover letter. I do it on the resume and might mention it in the cover letter too—although you don’t want a cover letter to become a regurgitation of the resume.”

Key Takeaways

Address gaps proactively — Don’t leave them open to interpretation
Use “professional sabbatical” — Avoid “leave of absence” terminology
Keep it brief — One to two lines maximum
Show activity — Include volunteering, courses, or freelance work during gaps
Use years, not months — When it helps minimize short gaps
Don’t rely on cover letters — Address gaps on your resume directly

“Resume writing is sales and marketing. Do what it takes to present skills in the most positive light possible,” adds Bugni. “Put effort into selling the value you bring to an organization, not explaining why you were able, forced, or chose to take time away from the work world.”

Need help with your resume? Mediabistro’s Career Services offer everything from a quick resume edit to career counseling sessions to tackle your CV, networking skills, career transition, and more.

FAQs About Employment Gaps on Resumes

How do I explain an employment gap on my resume?

Address it directly by listing a “professional sabbatical” with the dates where the gap appears in your work history. Keep the explanation brief (one to two lines) and focus on any productive activities during that time, such as volunteering, courses, or freelance work.

Should I put a sabbatical on my resume?

Yes. Using the term “professional sabbatical” is preferable to leaving an unexplained gap. It acknowledges the time off without getting into personal details, showing you’re transparent with potential employers.

Is it better to use months or years on a resume?

Using years only can help minimize the appearance of short gaps. If you were unemployed for a few months but working by year’s end, listing only years makes the transition seamless. However, if months help your case (showing you started a sabbatical recently), include them.

Should I explain employment gaps in my cover letter?

Don’t rely solely on your cover letter to explain gaps—many hiring managers don’t read them. Address the gap on your resume first. You can mention it in your cover letter as well, but the resume should be your primary venue.

What’s the difference between “leave of absence” and “professional sabbatical”?

In HR terminology, “leave of absence” typically implies medical or family-related leave, which can raise questions. “Professional sabbatical” is more neutral—it simply indicates time away from your career without suggesting specific circumstances.

How do I address a gap if I was caring for family?

List it as a professional sabbatical with the dates. You don’t need to explain that you were caregiving on your resume. If asked during an interview, you can briefly mention it without going into detail. Focus on any relevant skills or activities during that time.

Will employment gaps hurt my chances of getting hired?

Not necessarily—especially if you address them proactively. Unexplained gaps raise more red flags than acknowledged ones. By being transparent about what you did during your time off, you demonstrate honesty and initiative, which many employers value.

How long a gap is too long to explain?

There’s no fixed rule, but gaps of a year or more warrant explanation. Even extended gaps can be addressed positively if you show you stayed engaged through volunteering, education, freelance work, or other professional activities. Focus on the value you bring, not the length of the gap.

Topics:

Get Hired, Job Search, Resumes & Cover Letters

Journalism Advice

How to Get Your First Magazine Feature Story Accepted

Break into the coveted "well" with these editor-approved strategies that go beyond killer ledes and stellar portfolios.

By Kristen Fischer

5 min read • Originally published March 8, 2017 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Kristen Fischer

5 min read • Originally published March 8, 2017 / Updated April 6, 2026

Every magazine editor says the same thing: to land your first byline, pitch the FOB (front of the book) first. Editors at major publications consistently tell new writers to start with shorter pieces before attempting features.

“For features, we typically generate the ideas in-house, then assign them out to well-traveled, proven freelancers who have written extensively for our FOB departments and know our brand well,” explain editors at leading lifestyle magazines.

But what if you’re determined to write a feature story? Landing your first assignment in the coveted “well” of a magazine requires more than a compelling topic. Your timing must be perfect, and you need to convince editors that you’re the ideal writer for the assignment.

Here are six strategies that work, according to successful freelancers and magazine editors:

1. Include News and Numbers

Pitching a generic story about women and depression to major publications like Glamour will likely earn you a “we’ve already covered it” response. However, incorporating information from a new study gives your pitch a fresh angle that editors can’t ignore.

“Get an editor excited,” says Jon Finkel, a Florida-based sports writer. “A good statistic or recent study can give an old topic new life.”

Compelling data can also create urgency, pushing editors to publish sooner rather than later. Stay current with trending stories through:

EurekAlert for scientific studies
PR Newswire for corporate announcements
Google Trends for popular search topics
Regional publications for local stories with national appeal

Pro Tip: Your story doesn’t need to focus on the latest development, but that timely angle can be what secures the assignment.

2. Add an Anecdote

Numbers grab attention, but don’t forget your role as a storyteller. Medical exposes often open with personal stories because they help readers connect emotionally with the topic.

“You definitely want to make it look like you’ve made some outreach with a prospective source,” says Oregon-based writer Teri Cettina, whose work has appeared in major parenting publications. While she doesn’t always include anecdotes, doing so demonstrates commitment and shows you’ve invested time in the concept.

A strong anecdote in your pitch proves you can:

Connect with your audience
Find compelling sources
Tell stories that resonate

3. Package Your Pitch

From sidebar tips to infographics, thoughtful packaging can make your story stand out and show editors you understand magazine layout.

“It would be a big mistake if you felt like creating visual aids was the job of the editor,” says Cristina Goyanes, a writer who previously worked as an editor at Women’s Health. “They need to see you’ve thought about the complete package.”

Consider including:

Fact boxes with key statistics
Resource lists for readers
Sidebar suggestions
Photo or video opportunities

Keep packaging recommendations brief—just a few sentences. As Goyanes notes, “They don’t want the whole story until they’re intrigued by the bait.”

4. Nail the Headline

Sometimes a compelling headline alone can secure an assignment.

“If you’re still working on fleshing out the story details, but the headline is too good to pass up, it can save your butt,” Goyanes explains.

Effective headlines:

Match the publication’s style
Create urgency (“The Dangers of Missing Breakfast”)
Challenge assumptions (“Is Sleeping Making You Fat?”)
Use numbers when appropriate (“5 Ways to…”)

Even if your headline doesn’t make it to print, including one shows thoroughness and professionalism.

5. Go Beyond an Idea

Writing your pitch in the story’s actual tone helps editors envision the piece in their publication and evaluate your writing style.

Cettina says writing the first few paragraphs as if they were the actual article has helped her land major bylines. While this requires more upfront investment, it often pays off.

If you’re hesitant to write before getting approval, focus on demonstrating your research instead:

List confirmed interview sources
Show your research depth
Mention exclusive access opportunities

Remember: If one publication passes, you can tweak and pitch elsewhere—as long as the story remains unpublished. Just don’t submit simultaneous pitches for the same story.

6. Sell Yourself

A compelling story idea isn’t enough—editors need to know why you’re the perfect writer for the assignment.

Your unique qualifications might include:

Personal experience with the topic
Industry connections
Specialized knowledge
Geographic advantage
Social media following

“There are so many places where the goal isn’t just an awesome article but tons of clicks,” Finkel notes. Publications want writers who understand promotion and can help amplify their content.

Today’s pitch is also a business pitch. Show editors you’re thinking about:

How to promote the finished piece
Your social media reach
Your ability to drive traffic

Building Long-Term Success

Even the best pitches get rejected for reasons beyond your control. Timing, editorial calendars, and budget constraints all play a role.

“Persistence can be just as important as having great ideas,” Cettina emphasizes. She focused on a few target magazines and pitched them consistently before breaking into the industry.

Regular pitching builds name recognition. “The first time an editor sees my name, they might dismiss me,” Cettina explains. “If they see my name routinely coming across their email, they start to pay attention.”

Ready to pitch? Browse current magazine job opportunities and freelance assignments at Mediabistro Jobs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I pitch feature stories to multiple magazines simultaneously?

No. Wait until you’re certain one publication has passed before querying another with the same story idea. However, you can pitch different angles of the same topic to different publications.

How long should my feature story pitch be?

Keep pitches concise—typically 3-4 paragraphs. Include your hook, why it’s timely, your approach, and why you’re qualified to write it.

Do I need to write the full article before pitching?

No, but writing the opening paragraphs can help editors visualize your story and writing style. At minimum, show you’ve done preliminary research and have sources lined up.

How do I find the right editor to pitch?

Check the magazine’s masthead for section editors, visit their website’s contributor guidelines, or use resources like MediaBistro’s database to find current contact information.

What if an editor doesn’t respond to my pitch?

Follow up once after 1-2 weeks, then move on. No response typically means no interest. Focus your energy on new pitches and publications.

Topics:

Go Freelance, Journalism Advice

Job Search

When to Update LinkedIn With a New Job (Without Alerting Your Boss)

The right timing for updating your LinkedIn profile—whether you're job hunting, starting a new role, or got a promotion.

By John Lombard

John Lombard is a content strategist and writer with over a decade of experience creating interactive and video content for brands like Apple, IBM, and Samsung. He previously worked at Mediabistro and now serves as a Client Strategist at Ceros.

6 min read • Originally published December 12, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

By John Lombard

6 min read • Originally published December 12, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

LinkedIn is one of the best resources for job seekers and professionals building their careers. But since many profile updates are shared with your network, timing matters. Update too soon while job searching, and your current boss might notice. Update too late after a new job, and you miss the opportunity to leverage your network.

Here’s when to update your LinkedIn profile during the job search—and after you land that new role.

When You’re Job Seeking While Employed

It’s tempting to overhaul your LinkedIn profile when you’re employed and quietly looking for work. A refreshed headline and stronger experience section can attract more recruiters. But these changes can also be red flags to your current employer.

“I would say you need to take the necessary precautions when updating your LinkedIn profile, especially when you haven’t communicated that you are leaving,” says Randy Ksar, VP of Digital at Voce Communications. “Updating your LinkedIn profile should probably be the last step when you are currently employed and looking for a job.”

If you need to make updates to attract recruiters, take these precautions first:

How to Turn Off LinkedIn Update Notifications

Before making any profile changes while employed, disable the features that broadcast your updates to your network.

Step 1: Turn Off “Share Profile Updates”

Click your profile photo in the top right corner
Select Settings & Privacy
Click Visibility in the left menu
Under “Visibility of your LinkedIn activity,” find Share profile updates with your network
Toggle this setting to Off

Step 2: Turn On “Open to Work” (Privately)

LinkedIn allows you to signal to recruiters that you’re open to new opportunities without notifying your current employer:

Go to your profile and click Open to below your profile photo
Select Finding a new job
Fill in your job preferences
Under “Choose who sees you’re open,” select Recruiters only

This setting is hidden from recruiters at your current company (though LinkedIn notes it cannot guarantee complete privacy).

What Updates Are Safe to Make?

Some updates are less likely to raise suspicion:

Adding skills — Looks like professional development
Updating your photo — Could just be a refresh
Adding certifications — Shows you’re learning
Tweaking your summary — Subtle changes often go unnoticed

Avoid dramatic changes like rewriting your entire headline or adding “Open to opportunities” publicly.

When to Update LinkedIn After Landing a New Job

You’ve accepted an offer, and you’re excited to share the news. But when exactly should you update your LinkedIn profile?

Check With Your New Employer First

“My recommendation is to chat with your manager before you update your LinkedIn profile, especially if your role is public-facing,” says Ksar.

Some companies prefer to announce new hires through official channels first. Others may ask you to wait until you’ve completed onboarding or passed a probationary period.

Wait at Least One Week

Ksar suggests waiting “a week or so, as long as you’ve got your personal brand story and your role in the company defined.”

Consider what happens when you update:

Your network will congratulate you
Connections will ask questions about your new role
Recruiters and potential partners will start reaching out

Make sure you’re ready to respond thoughtfully to all of that engagement.

Consider the “What If” Factor

Sometimes a new job that looks great on paper turns out to be the wrong fit. If you update LinkedIn immediately and then leave within a few weeks, you’ll have an awkward gap—or another quick update—to explain.

While there’s no magic number, many professionals wait 2-4 weeks to ensure the role is truly a good fit before making it “LinkedIn official.”

How to Announce Your New Job on LinkedIn

Once you’re ready to update, you have two options:

Option 1: Simply Update Your Profile

Add your new position to your experience section. If your notification settings are on, LinkedIn will automatically share the update with your network, generating congratulations and engagement.

Option 2: Write an Announcement Post

For more visibility and engagement, write a dedicated post about your new role. This approach lets you:

Thank people who helped you during your search
Share what excites you about the new opportunity
Describe what you’ll be working on
Tag your new company and colleagues

Example post structure:

I’m excited to share that I’ve joined [Company] as [Title]!

After [X years] at [Previous Company], I’m thrilled to take on this new challenge. I’ll be [brief description of what you’ll be doing].

Thank you to everyone who supported me during this transition, especially [names if appropriate]. I’m grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.

Keep it genuine—overly polished announcements can feel inauthentic.

When to Make Other LinkedIn Profile Updates

After a Promotion

Update promptly, but consider whether to add it as a new position or update your current one. Major promotions (new title, new responsibilities) typically warrant a new entry. Minor title changes can be edited within your current role.

When You Complete a Certification

Add certifications as soon as you earn them. This is a positive update that shows professional development and rarely raises concerns.

When You Finish a Major Project

Add significant accomplishments to your current role’s description. Quantify results when possible (e.g., “Led rebrand that increased engagement by 40%”).

Annually (At Minimum)

Even if nothing major has changed, review your profile at least once a year. Update your skills, refresh your summary, and ensure your experience descriptions reflect your current responsibilities.

Looking for your next opportunity? Browse jobs on Mediabistro.

FAQs About Updating LinkedIn

When should I update LinkedIn with my new job?

Most professionals wait 1-4 weeks after starting a new job. Check with your new employer first, especially for public-facing roles. Make sure you’ve settled in and confirmed the role is a good fit before making it official on LinkedIn.

Will my boss know if I update my LinkedIn profile?

If your “Share profile updates” setting is on, your network (potentially including your boss) will see a notification about changes. Turn this setting off before making updates if you’re job searching confidentially.

Should I update LinkedIn on my first day at a new job?

It’s generally better to wait. Give yourself time to learn about your role, confirm the job is a good fit, and check whether your employer has any preferences about when new hires announce their positions.

How do I update LinkedIn without notifying everyone?

Go to Settings & Privacy > Visibility > Share profile updates with your network, and toggle this to Off. Now you can make changes without triggering notifications to your connections.

Is it okay to announce a new job on LinkedIn before starting?

It’s safer to wait until you’ve officially started. Offers can occasionally be rescinded, start dates can change, and you’ll want to describe your actual role rather than what you expect it to be.

How do I announce a new job on LinkedIn?

You can either update your experience section (which triggers automatic notifications) or write a dedicated post. A post lets you thank supporters, describe your new role, and increase engagement.

Should I remove my previous job when I update my LinkedIn profile?

No—keep your previous positions. LinkedIn is a professional history, and your past experience adds credibility. Simply add your new role and update the end date on your previous position.

What if my new job doesn’t work out after I update my LinkedIn profile?

This happens. You can either update your profile again with a new position or revert to your previous role if you return there. Brief stints at companies are increasingly common and don’t carry the stigma they once did.

Topics:

Get Hired, Job Search

Resumes & Cover Letters

Resume Words to Avoid (and Power Words to Use Instead)

Hiring managers gloss over buzzwords like "detail-oriented" and "team player." Here's what to say instead.

By John Lombard

4 min read • Originally published May 16, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

By John Lombard

4 min read • Originally published May 16, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

In this article: Words to Avoid | Power Words to Use | Other Words Employers Love | Space-Killers to Cut | FAQ

Your resume is one of the most powerful tools in your job search, but it might be full of words that drain it of its strength.

“Buzzwords once had meaning, but they have been repeated so often that hiring managers gloss over them,” says Mitchell Langbert, associate professor of business management at Brooklyn College.

To help you make sure you’re not filling your prime resume real estate with meaningless jargon, we’re breaking down which resume words to avoid and which power words to add instead.

Resume Buzzwords to Delete

While these words and phrases were once effective and meaningful, they are now “dying from overuse,” says Langbert. Remove these from your resume immediately:

Overused Buzzwords	Why They Don’t Work
Detail-oriented	Everyone claims this; show it instead
Team player	Vague; describe actual collaboration
Results-driven / Results-oriented	Empty without specific metrics
Hard worker / Hardworking	Expected of all candidates
Dynamic / Energetic	Subjective and unverifiable
Strategic thinker	Show strategy through achievements
Excellent communicator	Let your resume demonstrate this
Go-getter / Go-to person	Informal and overused
Outside the box	Cliché that suggests the opposite
Synergy / Value add	Corporate jargon that means nothing
Thought leadership	Pretentious without proof
Proactive	Show initiative through examples
People person	Too casual for professional resumes
Seasoned	Use years of experience instead
Bottom-line	Show actual financial impact
Customer-focused	Demonstrate with metrics
Dependable / Loyal	Expected baseline qualities
Enthusiastic	Show passion through achievements
Familiar with	Weak; use “proficient in” or “experienced with”
Highly organized	Prove it with accomplishments
Optimize	Vague without specifics
Track record	Replace with actual results
Well-versed	Specify your actual expertise

Need help with your resume? Get a FREE resume evaluation from Mediabistro’s Resume Writing Services. Our counselors and writers can help you update and upgrade your resume so you can confidently apply for the job you want.

Power Words to Use Instead

Replace buzzwords with “action verbs that describe what you’ve done and how those experiences have contributed to your success or the success of the company,” says Eleesha Martin, senior recruiting specialist at G&A Partners.

Action Verb	Best Used For
Achieved	Goals, targets, certifications
Conceptualized	New ideas, campaigns, products
Created	Content, processes, solutions
Decreased	Costs, time, errors
Improved	Processes, metrics, relationships
Increased	Revenue, efficiency, engagement
Influenced	Decisions, stakeholders, outcomes
Launched	Products, campaigns, initiatives
Managed	Teams, budgets, projects
Mentored	Junior staff, interns, teams
Negotiated	Contracts, rates, partnerships
Organized	Events, systems, workflows
Resolved	Conflicts, issues, complaints
Trained	Staff, clients, users
Won	Awards, accounts, competitions

Other Words Employers Love

Beyond action verbs, these terms signal that you’re focused on measurable impact:

Goal-setting — Shows you think strategically
Revenue — Demonstrates business awareness
Under budget — Proves financial responsibility
Self-motivating — Indicates independence
Ideas — Suggests creativity and initiative

Space-Killers to Cut

Keep your resume to one page with these pro tips from Martin:

Ditch phrase redundancies. Remove “responsible for” and “duties included.” These are largely unnecessary and take up valuable space without adding any value.

Remove “References Available Upon Request.” Most recruiters know you have references and will ask about them later.

Kill extraneous information. “If it isn’t pertinent to demonstrating or explaining your skills, qualifications, knowledge, abilities, and accomplishments, leave it off,” says Martin.

Ready to put your improved resume to work? Browse open positions on the Mediabistro job board.

Frequently Asked Questions

What words should I avoid on my resume?

Avoid overused buzzwords like “detail-oriented,” “team player,” “results-driven,” “hard worker,” and “dynamic.” These phrases have lost their impact because every candidate uses them. Instead, use specific action verbs and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate these qualities.

What are the best words to put on a resume?

Use strong action verbs like “achieved,” “increased,” “launched,” “managed,” and “created.” Pair these with specific metrics whenever possible—for example, “Increased social media engagement by 45%” is more powerful than “results-driven social media manager.”

What does “results-oriented” mean on a resume, and should I use it?

Results-oriented means you focus on achieving measurable outcomes. However, this phrase is so overused that recruiters skip right past it. Instead of saying you’re results-oriented, prove it by listing specific results: “Reduced customer churn by 20%” or “Generated $50K in new revenue.”

How do I replace “detail-oriented” on my resume?

Rather than claiming you’re detail-oriented, demonstrate it through your accomplishments. For example: “Identified and corrected 15 billing errors, recovering $12,000” or “Maintained 99.8% accuracy rate across 500+ monthly transactions.”

Should I include “References Available Upon Request” on my resume?

No. This phrase wastes valuable space. Employers assume you’ll provide references when asked, so there’s no need to state the obvious. Use that space for another accomplishment instead.

Topics:

Get Hired, Resumes & Cover Letters

Journalism Advice

Hed, Dek, Lede & More: 10 Journalism Terms Every Freelance Writer Should Know

From kill fees to slush piles, here are the publishing terms you need to know before pitching editors.

By Kristen Fischer

7 min read • Originally published June 2, 2015 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Kristen Fischer

7 min read • Originally published June 2, 2015 / Updated April 6, 2026

When in doubt, ask. Unfortunately, many new freelance writers don’t follow that advice for fear of appearing inexperienced. Instead, they assume that when an editor says a spring cleaning idea is too “evergreen,” she means it’s too environmentally focused—when the term actually refers to stories that are general and not timely.

That’s just one of the many terms you might hear in a newsroom or see in an email from an editor. Below are 10 essential journalism terms every freelance writer should know before pitching.

1. Hed, Dek, and Lede

These three terms are used constantly in journalism and publishing:

Hed — The headline of an article
Dek — The sub-headline that appears below the main headline
Lede — The introductory paragraph(s) of an article

All three are intentionally misspelled so editors don’t confuse them with the actual story text when marking up drafts.

Michael Sullivan, a freelance journalist in Los Angeles, says he often has to write multiple headlines for the same piece. “I feel like I have to title every story I write, like, three different times,” Sullivan says—one for print, one for web, and one for email alerts.

When pitching, make your lede as compelling as possible and try to include a strong hed and dek. You can even use the headline and dek as your email subject line to catch an editor’s attention. For example, introduce a feature about hair loss as: “Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: 7 Steps to Fight Alopecia Before It Starts.”

Even if your titles aren’t used in the final product, writing them demonstrates that you’re willing to go beyond what’s requested—which can increase your chances of landing future assignments.

2. Slug

A slug in journalism is a word or combination of words and numbers used in a publication’s content management system to identify a story.

In a newsroom, every component of a story—whether a two-inch blurb or a 30-inch feature—is assigned a slug so editors can quickly identify pieces as they manage a large influx of content.

As a freelancer, you probably won’t need to create slugs yourself. If you do, check the internal story roster or ask an editor about the publication’s format.

3. FOB and BOB

FOB (front-of-book) and BOB (back-of-book) refer to news items and shorter articles located at the beginning and end of a print magazine.

“For me, the front of book and the back of book seem kind of interchangeable as far as what runs in them,” says Renee Roberson, blog tour manager at WOW! Women on Writing.

FOB and BOB pieces are excellent opportunities for new writers to break in. Magazines rarely assign features to unproven writers, but these shorter sections are often more accessible.

“[Front of book] is one of the few places I might assign a story if I haven’t worked with you before,” explains Abigail Lewis, editor of Whole Life Times. “However, occasionally, if a writer has strong clips and a well-crafted query, we will assign a department or feature.”

Every publication’s FOB and BOB sections are different—New York magazine’s FOB is called “Strategist” and features party roundups and brief Q&As, while its BOB includes reviews and the “Approval Matrix.” Study several issues before pitching.

4. The Well

The well is the middle section of a magazine where you’ll find longer, more in-depth feature articles.

“That’s where all the feature stories are—typically the stories that are put on the cover, the profiles,” notes Roberson.

Want to get in the well? Start by writing smaller pieces in the FOB or BOB sections before pitching feature-length articles. If you’re eager to go in-depth, pitch features to trade or regional publications before targeting national magazines—smaller outlets are much more likely to take a chance on new writers.

5. Slush Pile

The slush pile refers to the mass of articles or query letters that have been rejected—whether physically discarded, set aside, or deleted from an inbox.

The key to keeping your pitches out of the slush pile is targeting the right editor. Mediabistro’s How To Pitch section details which editors at leading publications are open to pitches.

“I have actually Googled some of the editors’ names and have actually found articles where they talked about how to stay out of the slush pile,” Roberson says.

Another tip: Flesh out your query to make it distinctive. Start with a crisp lead sentence and a hook, then outline sections of the article, including data or quotes. “You have to sort of take some time and put a different spin on it,” Roberson advises.

6. On Spec

When you write on spec (short for “on speculation”), you do so without a guarantee of publication. Editors typically request on-spec pieces to see the finished story before agreeing to pay for it.

Writing on spec might make sense if you know an editor and believe you have a strong chance of approval. If you write well and cultivate relationships, editors will want to work with you on an ongoing basis—which may make spec work worthwhile, says Long Island journalist Ellen Pober Rittberg.

However, the practice is risky and time-consuming. Consider pitching another outlet for your idea before investing time in something that may never be published.

7. Over the Transom

An over the transom submission is an unsolicited piece that an editor did not request—you simply send it hoping it will be published.

This strategy is risky. Publications have strict guidelines about what they accept, and submitting work regardless of their rules may suggest you can’t follow directions. You’re also spending time on a story you may never be paid for.

Before proceeding, read the publication’s guidelines to see if they accept unsolicited submissions.

8. Kill Fee

A kill fee is a payment made when an assigned article is cancelled (“killed”) before publication. This can happen if news breaks, another article runs long, or editors decide the story feels dated.

Kill fees are typically calculated as a percentage of the original article fee, as stated in your contract. However, some publications may shelve your article without paying anything.

If you don’t see a kill fee mentioned in your contract, request one before you begin writing to protect yourself.

9. Clips

Clips are published articles from your portfolio of work. The goal is to build a collection that showcases your talent, the diversity (or specialty) of your writing, and evidence that publications have trusted you with assignments.

Chicago-based writer Alicia Eler recommends sending three clips from different publications when requested. “Show that you can vary your voice and perspective depending on the potential audience,” she explains.

As you acquire more clips, update your portfolio regularly—it should evolve as you expand your reach to more prominent publications.

Looking for freelance writing opportunities to build your clips? Browse media jobs on Mediabistro.

10. Closing Date

The closing date (or “close”) is when a publication is being finalized for print. This is typically a hectic time in the newsroom, with last-minute edits happening everywhere.

This is the worst time to pitch or expect a response to anything that isn’t urgent. Do yourself a favor and do not contact your editor during closing. You can find a publication’s closing dates in its media kit.

FAQs About Journalism Terms

What does “hed” mean in journalism?

Hed is journalism slang for “headline.” It’s intentionally misspelled so editors don’t confuse it with the actual story text when marking up drafts or giving feedback.

What is a dek in journalism?

A dek (also spelled “deck”) is the sub-headline that appears below the main headline. Like “hed,” it’s deliberately misspelled to distinguish it from story text. The dek typically expands on the headline and gives readers more context about the article.

What is a lede?

A lede is the opening paragraph or paragraphs of a news article. It’s spelled this way to avoid confusion with “lead” (as in leading a story or a lead role). A strong lede hooks readers and establishes the most important information.

What is a slug in journalism?

A slug is a short identifier (word or phrase) assigned to a story in a publication’s content management system. It helps editors quickly identify and organize stories. For example, a story about city budget cuts might have the slug “BUDGET-CUTS-2026.”

What does “on spec” mean?

“On spec” (short for “on speculation”) means writing an article without a guarantee of publication or payment. Editors may request spec work to evaluate a writer’s abilities before committing to an assignment.

What is a kill fee?

A kill fee is partial compensation paid to a writer when an assigned article is cancelled before publication. Kill fees are typically 20-50% of the original assignment rate and should be specified in your contract.

What does FOB mean in publishing?

FOB stands for “front-of-book,” referring to the shorter articles and news items that appear in the first section of a magazine. These are often good opportunities for new writers to break into a publication.

Topics:

Go Freelance, Journalism Advice

Advice From the Pros

What Does a Publicist Do? Responsibilities, Skills, Salary & Career Path

A complete guide to the publicist role, including daily responsibilities, essential skills, salary expectations, and how to break into PR.

By Jenell Talley

Jenell Talley is a journalist and program analyst with a background spanning media, government, and editorial work. She holds a journalism degree from Howard University and a master's in human resources management from the University of Maryland.

6 min read • Originally published March 29, 2017 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Jenell Talley

6 min read • Originally published March 29, 2017 / Updated April 6, 2026

A publicist is a communications professional who manages the public image of individuals, brands, or organizations. The work covers everything from writing press releases and pitching journalists to handling media crises and planning publicity events. If you’re a strategic thinker with strong writing skills and a talent for building relationships, a career in public relations could be an ideal fit.

What Does a Publicist Do?

“At the most basic level, publicists communicate a business or brand’s messages to the consumers they hope to reach, impact, and influence,” says Sakita Holley, CEO of House of Success PR. “The primary function of the role is to work with the brand to decide what those messages will be, how they will be delivered, who will deliver them (and on what platform), and how to engage and maintain a conversation with this target group of people and/or the market.”

Whether the client is a public figure, a business, a film, or a product launch, the job is fundamentally the same: shape how the public sees them, and manage that perception over time.

Publicist Responsibilities

Daily responsibilities vary depending on the industry and client type, but typically include:

Writing — Press releases, media alerts, press kit materials, speeches, bios, and social media content
Media relations — Pitching stories to journalists and influencers, arranging interviews and press conferences
Image management — Managing and protecting the public image of clients
Event coordination — Planning and executing publicity events such as book signings, product launches, and press tours
Crisis management — Responding to negative press and developing strategies to mitigate reputational damage
Media monitoring — Developing media lists, tracking coverage, and measuring campaign effectiveness
Strategy development — Creating comprehensive PR campaigns aligned with client goals

Is All Publicity Good Publicity?

No, says Holley. But skilled publicists can often spin a negative story into something positive — or, at the very least, control the narrative and minimize damage.

Skills Required to Be a Publicist

“Writing has always been a core part of public relations, but with the proliferation of technology and social media, publicists now spend more than 90 percent of their time writing and/or crafting copy for everything from emails, proposals, and pitches, to tweets, social media captions, and marketing materials,” says Holley. If you want to succeed in this field, you must write well.

Essential Skills

Skill Category	Specific Skills
Writing	Press releases, pitches, speeches, social media copy, crisis statements
Communication	Public speaking, presentation skills, media training, storytelling
Relationship Building	Networking, media relations, client management, influencer outreach
Strategic Thinking	Campaign planning, message development, audience targeting
Problem Solving	Crisis management, reputation repair, quick thinking under pressure
Organization	Attention to detail, project management, deadline management

Attention to Detail Matters

“A wrong number or address can be a big deal,” says Jessica Janik, owner of The Invisible Bridesmaid, a wedding PR agency. “Could you imagine sending out a press release with the wrong contact number or an invite with the wrong address?”

Tools and Technology for Modern Publicists

Today’s publicists need to master a range of digital tools:

Social Media Management

Tools like Hootsuite and Buffer let you schedule posts, track your clients’ online presence, and engage with audiences across multiple platforms from a single dashboard.

Media Monitoring

Platforms like Mention and Brandwatch track who’s saying what about your clients, helping you identify opportunities, manage potential crises, and measure the impact of your campaigns.

PR Software

Industry-standard tools like Cision, Muck Rack, and Meltwater help publicists build media lists, distribute press releases, track coverage, and measure campaign effectiveness.

Contact Management

CRM systems help you manage your network of media contacts, track interactions, and ensure timely follow-ups. In PR, your network is one of your most valuable assets.

Analytics

Understanding the reach, engagement, and overall effectiveness of your PR efforts is essential. Tools that measure media impressions, sentiment, and share of voice help demonstrate ROI to clients.

Publicist Salary

Publicist salaries vary based on experience, location, industry, and whether you work in-house or at an agency.

Experience Level	Typical Salary Range
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$40,000 – $50,000
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$50,000 – $70,000
Senior Publicist (6-10 years)	$70,000 – $95,000
PR Director/VP	$100,000 – $150,000+

Note: Publicists working with high-profile entertainment clients or in major markets (New York, Los Angeles) can earn significantly more. Celebrity publicists at top firms may earn $ 150,000 to $300,000+.

Publicist Career Path

Level	Title	Typical Experience
Entry	PR Assistant / PR Coordinator	0-2 years
Mid	Publicist / Account Executive	2-5 years
Senior	Senior Publicist / Account Manager	5-8 years
Leadership	PR Director / VP of Communications	8+ years

Many experienced publicists also start their own PR agencies or work as independent consultants.

What Does It Take to Excel as a Publicist?

“Being confident while speaking in front of a large group of people is so important,” says Janik, who recommends joining Toastmasters to sharpen your public speaking skills. “Articulating your thoughts and your client’s story in front of an audience, your coworkers, and the media will open many doors.”

How to Break Into Public Relations

Education

A degree in public relations, journalism, communications, or marketing provides a strong foundation. However, experience often matters more than your specific major.

Start with Internships

“The best route is applying for an internship at a public relations firm in the field you are interested in,” advises Janik. “If it’s fashion, look for a designer you would like to work with or for the public relations agency that represents brands you admire, and apply.”

Build Your Portfolio

Even before landing your first PR job, you can build experience by:

Managing social media for student organizations or local nonprofits
Writing press releases for campus events
Starting a blog to demonstrate your writing skills
Freelancing for local businesses that need PR help

Ready to start your publicist career? Browse PR and publicist jobs on Mediabistro.

FAQs About Publicists

What does a publicist do?

A publicist manages the public image of individuals, brands, or organizations. They write press releases, pitch stories to journalists, arrange interviews, plan publicity events, manage crises, and develop strategic communications campaigns to shape public perception.

What is the difference between a publicist and a PR professional?

The terms are often used interchangeably. “Publicist” is more commonly used in entertainment, fashion, and celebrity contexts, while “PR professional” or “communications specialist” is more common in corporate settings. The core skills and responsibilities are similar.

How much do publicists make?

Entry-level publicists typically earn $40,000-$50,000, mid-level professionals earn $50,000-$70,000, and senior publicists can earn $70,000-$95,000 or more. Celebrity publicists and PR directors at major agencies can earn well over $150,000.

What degree do you need to become a publicist?

Most publicists have a bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, communications, or marketing. However, experience and demonstrated skills often matter more than your specific major.

Is being a publicist stressful?

Public relations can be demanding. Publicists often work under tight deadlines, manage multiple clients simultaneously, and must be available to handle crises at any time. However, many find the fast pace and variety of work exciting and rewarding.

What skills do publicists need?

Essential skills include excellent writing, strong verbal communication, relationship building, strategic thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, and proficiency with PR software and social media platforms.

How do I become a celebrity publicist?

Most celebrity publicists start at entertainment PR agencies, working their way up from assistant or coordinator roles. Building relationships within the entertainment industry, understanding celebrity media, and developing a track record of successful campaigns are essential for advancement.

Can publicists work remotely?

Many publicists can work remotely or in hybrid arrangements, especially for tasks like writing, media monitoring, and virtual pitching. However, some roles — particularly in entertainment PR — may require in-person presence for events, photo shoots, and client meetings.

Topics:

Advice From the Pros, Be Inspired

Hot Jobs

Social and Audience Growth Roles Are Redefining Media Jobs in 2026

From indie game studios to legacy newsrooms, the most interesting hires right now center on building communities, not just broadcasting content.

By Mediabistro Team

4 min read • Published April 6, 2026

By Mediabistro Team

4 min read • Published April 6, 2026

The Audience Builders Are in Demand

Something worth watching is unfolding across today’s job board: organizations of very different sizes and missions are all converging on the same hire. They want someone who understands how audiences form, stick around, and grow.

The titles vary wildly. Head of Social at a game studio. Deputy Director of Audience at a storied newsroom. Social Video Producer. Digital Strategy Manager. Strip away the varying naming conventions and you’re looking at the same core competency: the ability to turn passive viewers into active communities.

What makes this cluster especially revealing is where these roles are appearing. An indie game developer wants social baked into its product design. A 127-year-old Jewish publication is investing in audience experimentation. A private school in Atlanta needs someone camera-ready and campus-present. These aren’t interchangeable jobs, yet they all reflect the same industry-wide realization that content alone doesn’t build loyalty – conversation does.

If you’ve been building audiences across platforms and can point to measurable community growth, your skills translate across sectors you might not have considered.

Today’s Hot Jobs

Head of Social at The Game Band

Why this one is different: The Game Band, the studio behind Where Cards Fall and the cult hit Blaseball, is treating social not as a marketing function sitting adjacent to the product. Social is the product. This role sits inside the games team, shaping share mechanics and viral loops during the design process. For anyone who has felt constrained posting someone else’s content on a brand account, this is the opposite end of the spectrum.

Build and manage character-driven social accounts for individual game titles
Collaborate with product and design teams to shape share mechanics and viral loops
Grow presence across TikTok, Instagram, X, and emerging platforms
Write distinctive copy and develop recurring formats, bits, and running jokes that build a recognizable studio voice

Apply to the Head of Social position at The Game Band

Audience Deputy Director at The Forward

What caught our eye: The Forward isn’t just hiring for audience growth. It’s hiring for audience experimentation. This role is explicitly tasked with piloting new engagement initiatives, tracking what works in real time, and contributing to what the organization calls “an audience-centered culture.” For professionals who want to shape strategy rather than execute a predetermined playbook, this is a rare invitation.

If you’re thinking about how to sharpen your approach to social media strategy, the skill set described here is a strong model.

Identify opportunities for deeper interaction among readers, newsletter subscribers, and members
Design and run experiments that test engagement and conversion hypotheses
Support the editorial social presence with fluency across major platforms
Use data, analytics, and audience insights to inform decision-making across the organization

Apply to the Audience Deputy Director position at The Forward

Social Video Producer at The Forward

The case for applying: The Forward is double-investing in social, and this companion role focuses on the visual storytelling side. The job calls for someone who can write, produce, edit, and post social-first video at journalistic speed. On-camera comfort is a plus but not required. What is required: a track record of producing videos that actually reached large audiences. The emphasis on mentoring colleagues who appear in videos suggests this person will shape how the entire newsroom shows up on social platforms.

Brainstorm video concepts, write scripts, integrate graphics, and produce social-first content
Use platform-native analytics to drive audience development decisions
Collaborate with reporters and editors to translate journalism into visual stories
Mentor colleagues who appear on camera, raising the overall video quality of the newsroom

Apply to the Social Video Producer position at The Forward

Digital and Social Content Manager at The Lovett School

Worth a closer look: Lovett is an established Atlanta independent school approaching its centennial, and it wants someone who is equal parts photojournalist and social strategist. This role requires real on-the-ground presence: capturing classroom breakthroughs, athletic milestones, and campus events as they happen, then producing mobile-first content from that material. Covering a school’s centennial celebration is the kind of portfolio-defining assignment that doesn’t come along often. Check out these social media manager success tips if you want to sharpen your pitch for roles like this one.

Capture, edit, and produce mobile-first photography, reels, stories, and short-form video
Write engaging copy for social platforms and digital channels
Play a key role in documenting the school’s 2026-27 centennial celebration and campus transformation
Work closely with the communications team to maintain brand consistency across all platforms

Apply to the Digital and Social Content Manager position at The Lovett School

The Takeaway for Job Seekers

The throughline across all four of these roles is clear: organizations want people who can build two-way relationships with audiences, not just push content outward. If your resume still frames your social media experience as “managed brand accounts” or “scheduled posts across platforms,” you’re underselling yourself.

Reframe around outcomes. Community growth rates. Engagement experiments you designed. Formats you originated that drove measurable audience gains.

The employers posting media jobs today aren’t looking for channel managers. They’re looking for the person who understands why people gather around content and can engineer more of those moments.

Topics:

Hot Jobs

Skills & Expertise

How to Get Ahead in Digital Marketing (and Stay There)

Keep learning, networking and crowing about your own successes

By Amanda Layman Low

@AmandaLaymanLow

Amanda Layman is a B2B tech content writer and strategist with over 15 years of experience creating content for startups and enterprise brands. She founded Tigris, a content agency serving leading tech companies, and authored The New Freelance: A Book for Writers.

2 min read • Originally published February 2, 2016 / Updated April 5, 2026

By Amanda Layman Low

@AmandaLaymanLow

2 min read • Originally published February 2, 2016 / Updated April 5, 2026

With all the forms of digital marketing that are out there—mobile apps and sites, podcasts, digital TV and radio, and digitized versions of traditional media—how can you stay ahead of the curve as digital marketing evolves? The solution is to design your own ongoing education one step at a time. That way, when the right job opens up, you’re at the ready—with a whole slate of skills, connections, and ideas to offer your future employer.

Read on for four great ways to get going.

1. Join a LinkedIn Group

For a director who’s aspiring to a C-level position, LinkedIn is one of the best places to make connections. Nearly one quarter of all Fortune 500 C-level execs have a profile there, and joining a group is one of the fastest ways to handpick virtual mentors and role models in your industry. Here’s one to try out – Mediabistro’s parent company actually runs one of the largest marketing groups, the CMO Network.

2. Attend a Digital Marketing Conference

There’s a digital marketing conference for just about every skill and niche, so pick the one that feeds your creativity and goals. Check out Pubcon for exposure to cutting-edge technology, new internet marketing strategies, social media marketing and more.

For a content creation deep dive, visit the Copyblogger Authority Rainmaker conference, featuring a host of online marketing experts who cover topics like design, content, traffic and conversion. Another great option is &Then (formerly DMA15), which brings a variety of marketing gurus together to share ideas and make connections.

3. Track Your Successes

You could be a leading digital marketer in your company, but with nothing to prove it, you’re no different than your equally ambitious co-workers. Whether you’re selling your own product on the side or taking charge of an exceptionally challenging task at your day job, save your stats, feedback, email correspondence and other documentation that show you’re making a difference. Later, you’ll be able to leverage this in a job interview to prove you’ve got what it takes to grow a brand and connect with audiences.

4. Brush Up on Your Skills

Identify which of your skills need work, and hone them. A great way to improve is by taking a class. One to try is Mediabistro’s online course Fundamentals of Digital Marketing; you’ll learn how to integrate digital marketing into a brand’s overall strategy, develop a content strategy, and more.

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Skills & Expertise

Productivity

5 Actionable Steps to Build Your Media Career 5-Year Plan

Kickstart your long-term strategy with these nitty gritty details on how to get started

By John Lombard

4 min read • Originally published January 4, 2015 / Updated April 5, 2026

By John Lombard

4 min read • Originally published January 4, 2015 / Updated April 5, 2026

Whether you’re just starting out in your career, deep in the freelancing trenches or already at your media dream job, developing a 5-year plan is a bold, take-charge move. With a long-term goal in sight, and with actionable steps leading to that goal, you’re no longer simply floating by, you’re taking the reins on your destiny. And that feels awesome.

Wondering where to start? Read on as we take a look at the 5-year plan and how to really get it going.

1. Determine Your Overall Goal

Think of your overall goal as a finish line, the desired outcome of your 5-year plan: Maybe you’re looking to transition into a new career, or maybe you want to turn your idea for a startup into a reality. Whatever the goal, be sure that it’s realistic and concrete, as more defined goals make it easier to develop actionable steps towards your desired outcome.

Let’s say your overall goal (what you plan to achieve with your 5-year plan) is:

To create a blog with a strong online following that generates enough steady income from ad revenue to support myself by first quarter 2021.

Wondering what you’ll need to do to hit that goal? See below for more on how to make the dream a reality.

2. Determine Your Actionable Steps

Now that you have your overall goal laid out, it’s time to figure out the actionable steps you’ll need to take in order to reach that goal. What are actionable steps? Put simply, they’re steps that require you to physically do something in order to get closer to your goal.

To just state your 5-year plan and attempt to achieve it would be incredibly overwhelming. Rather, set small attainable goals that lead to your ultimate goal. Using our blogging 5-year plan as an example, let’s take a look a couple of the actionable steps that get us closer to our end:

Build a following of readers.

For this step, you can break down all the smaller steps that lead to this being accomplished. You might list these steps as learn how to build a blog following via online classes, study other successful bloggers, write at least 10 new articles every month.

Use digital marketing techniques to raise my visibility online.

Here, you might list take a class in digital marketing .

3. Break Out the Calendar

Here’s where things get real: Take your actionable steps and substeps and give them real dates.

Determine which steps need to happen in which order, then begin filling out the calendar. Start with yearly goals, move on to monthly goals, then add your daily or weekly goals.

A good idea when filling out your calendar is to ask yourself with each entry, “Is this step directly contributing towards my 5-year goal?” Asking this will help weed out what are actually side-projects and what are essential steps needed in reaching your goal.

Here’s how this might look with our blogging example:

End of week 1
Set my 5-year plan in motion!
Began researching top bloggers in my field
Completed 3 of 10 blog posts to roll out next month

End of month 1
Finished researching online classes and signed up for at least one
Began following the top bloggers in my niche field
Created 10 quality pieces to roll out for the next month

End of year 1
Completed content and marketing classes
Reached out to popular bloggers for advice
Created quality content for my audience (at least 10 pieces a month)

To make your steps even more specific, and yourself more accountable, productivity strategist Mike Vardy suggests renaming “appointments” on a calendar with “agreements” helps make them more difficult to break. “Rescheduling an appointment is something that can be done,” Vardy says, “but rescheduling an agreement seems more daunting and less viable.”

4. Add and Adjust Steps as Needed

As you continue towards you goal, it is very important to revise steps along the way. Maybe you, our hypothetical blogger, thought a content marketing class would help, when you realized a creative writing class would also be beneficial. Or maybe you learned that you also need to add video and a podcast to your site in order to gain more followers.

The main lesson here: Don’t be afraid to make changes to your steps, as long as they are changes that will more effectively lead you to your 5-year goal.

5. Stick to Your List by Becoming Your Goal

It may sound weird, but this change of mindset can help you achieve your goals. Behavioral psychologist James Clear says that our current behaviors are a reflection of our identity. To change your behaviours and actions, Clear says, you must “start believing new things about yourself.”

How to do this? Clear recommends developing a new identity and backing it up with small wins (which in this case are your actionable steps). Let’s check out our blogger example one final time:

New Identity
A highly creative writer capable of pulling in large audiences from all walks of the internet.

Prove It through Small Wins/Actionable Steps
Each month, get over 100 shares on at least 3 articles.

“You have to become the type of person you want to be,” Clear says, “And that starts with proving your new identity to yourself.” The more actionable steps you take towards your goal, the more you become your new identity.

Need that extra boost to jump-start your 5-year plan? Sign up for one of Mediabistro’s online courses such as Project Management Methodologies or Fundamentals of Digital Marketing. Developed and led by industry experts, these courses are designed to enhance your skills and help you get closer to your goals.

Topics:

Be Inspired, Productivity

Hot Jobs

Editorial and Digital Marketing Leadership Roles Hiring Now

By Mediabistro Team

6 min read • Published April 5, 2026

By Mediabistro Team

6 min read • Published April 5, 2026

The Senior Talent Search Is On

Media companies are hunting for leaders who can do two things at once: produce excellent work and grow an audience. The pressure behind that demand has sharpened this year.

Wired just shuttered its UK print edition to redirect resources toward subscriber growth. The Washington Post is turning to creator-led video deals after a round of staff cuts. WSJ, one of the few legacy outlets posting strong digital subscriber numbers, credits editorial discipline as central to its recovery.

The companies still actively hiring for senior creative and editorial talent are the ones that have found a version of this that works for their particular business model.

Whether the title says “editor,” “art director,” or “associate director,” each role demands someone who understands metrics as deeply as they understand craft.

That convergence used to live mostly at digital-native outlets. Now it’s showing up at a legacy business magazine, a regional print publication, and a small independent book publisher. The signal is clear: audience development is no longer a separate department. It’s baked into every senior creative and editorial hire.

What makes today’s batch especially worth watching is the range of formats these companies publish across. Print magazines, contributor networks, TikTok, Amazon advertising, branded content. If you’ve been building skills across multiple channels, these roles were designed for someone like you.

Today’s Hot Jobs

Senior Editor, Leadership at Inc. (Mansueto Ventures)

Why this one matters: Inc.’s Leadership section is a contributor-driven franchise, which means the Senior Editor won’t just be editing stories. They’ll be managing a large roster of columnists and freelancers, coaching writers on performance, and recruiting new voices. This is an editorial role where your success is measured by traffic growth and contributor output, a combination that reflects where digital publishing leadership is heading. The contributor-driven model also gives a section like this more resilience than a staff-heavy operation — a well-run freelance network keeps content flowing without the fixed overhead that has made many editorial teams vulnerable to cuts in recent years.

The salary range of $88,500 to $106,000 plus bonus eligibility puts this solidly above market for similar section-editor roles. The position is covered under the Writers Guild of America East collective bargaining agreement, which means union protections around salary floors, scheduling, and working conditions. That coverage means more now than it might have five years ago.

What they need from you:

Strong editorial judgment paired with deep understanding of audience behavior and digital publishing best practices
Experience managing and coaching a large roster of contributors and freelancers
A track record of scaling editorial content that performs, with a metrics-driven approach
Willingness to work a hybrid schedule (Tuesday through Thursday) at 7 World Trade Center in New York

Apply for the Senior Editor, Leadership role at Inc.

Art Director at Virginia Living

The creative opportunity here: Virginia Living is an award-winning regional lifestyle magazine covering food, culture, destinations, homes, and gardens. The Art Director role offers genuine creative ownership over both the print publication and digital platforms. You’ll be directing photography shoots, commissioning illustrators, and setting the visual direction for every issue. Regional lifestyle print is actually in a steadier position than many national titles right now. Local advertising relationships, loyal community readership, and lower distribution costs give publications like Virginia Living a model that works without scale. Hiring for creative leadership at this level signals real investment in where the publication is going.

Regional magazines like this one rarely advertise nationally for creative leadership, which makes this opening unusual. Richmond’s cost of living also means your salary stretches further than comparable roles in New York or LA.

The ideal candidate brings:

Seasoned experience in magazine art direction across print and digital
Ability to concept, direct, and execute photography and illustration assignments from scouting through final delivery
Strong typography, layout, and brand storytelling skills
Comfort working hands-on in a small, close-knit editorial team based in Richmond, VA

Apply for the Art Director position at Virginia Living

Associate Director, Digital Marketing at Topix Media Lab

What caught our eye: Topix Media Lab is a small, independent publishing house with a catalog spanning gaming, graphic novels, food and drink, home decor, card decks, and children’s titles. The Associate Director will lead full-funnel digital campaigns across Amazon, TikTok, Instagram, and influencer channels. The Amazon and TikTok focus here is worth paying attention to. BookTok has moved serious sales volume for independent and backlist titles, and Amazon’s advertising tools have matured into a genuine acquisition channel for niche genres. Topix’s catalog breadth is actually an advantage in that environment: each genre connects to its own creator ecosystem and its own buying behavior, which means no two campaigns look alike.

This is a remote role. If you’ve been working in-house at a larger publisher and craving more ownership, this is the kind of seat where you can shape strategy from scratch.

Core qualifications:

Proven record developing and executing direct-to-consumer marketing programs, including digital advertising and influencer outreach
Experience building relationships with authors, agents, and influencers in book publishing
Ability to strategize, budget, and run digital advertising and social media efforts across a diverse catalog
Leadership experience, including mentoring junior team members

Apply for the Associate Director, Digital Marketing role at Topix Media Lab

Editorial Intern at Kirkus Reviews

For those just starting out: Kirkus has been one of the most trusted names in book criticism since 1933. This paid, remote internship (15 to 25 hours per week) puts you inside a working editorial operation where you’ll fact-check, maintain editorial calendars, catalog review submissions, and contribute to social media.

The real draw is the opportunity to write for the publication. Kirkus reviews go out to librarians, independent booksellers, and publishing trade professionals who use them for acquisition and stocking decisions. A byline there means your criticism is being read by people with real purchasing power across the industry, which is a disproportionately valuable starting point.

If you’re interested in breaking into editorial at the entry level, getting clips from a publication that functions as the industry’s reading list is a better foundation than most.

What they’re looking for:

Interest in the publishing industry, cultural journalism, and criticism
Strong writing samples and a cover letter
Ability to work remotely 15 to 25 hours per week
Attention to detail for fact-checking and editorial calendar management

Apply for the Editorial Intern position at Kirkus Reviews

Professional Takeaways

Today’s openings reward people who have refused to stay in one lane. The editor who understands analytics. The art director who thinks about digital as naturally as print. The marketer who can pivot from Amazon ads to TikTok influencer campaigns in the same afternoon.

It’s also worth noting what these four companies share beyond the job listings: each operates from a defensible revenue base. Inc. on subscriptions and a contributor network. Virginia Living on local advertising and community readership. Topix on genre-specific catalog depth. Kirkus on its long-standing authority with librarians and the book trade.

These companies are filling seats because they have stable ground to stand on, and in the current media environment, that’s worth paying attention to when you’re evaluating where to take your career next.

If your resume still reads like a single-discipline specialist, consider reframing it around the cross-channel results you’ve delivered. Hiring managers at companies like these aren’t sorting applicants into neat skill categories anymore. They’re looking for people whose experience already mirrors the way modern media actually works.

For more on building a well-rounded social and digital skill set, Mediabistro’s career resources are a good place to start sharpening your positioning.

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