Ask the Recruiter

Q. This summer I had an internship at a mid-sized daily newspaper and had the opportunity to write some articles. I don't have a lot of articles to choose from, but there are a few I feel would make good clips.

ASK JOE A QUESTION

To get your question answered on this page, send it to Joe. Please include your full name in your message. If you prefer that your surname not be published, please indicate that. Sign up to receive Ask The Recruiter by e-mail: Click here (sent Monday-Friday at 8 a.m.)

One of my favorite stories has a misspelling in the subhead. It wasn't my fault, and I think most editors will realize that; however, I think it will reflect negatively on the newspaper and decrease my chances of getting a job. I scanned the article and could simply edit it out in Photoshop and keep the main headline, but I'm guessing this probably isn't a good idea. Another option might be to attach a short explanation along with the clip.

What do you think I should do?

Thanks,

Mike

A. Good guess.

Never alter something you are representing as original. It is not honest.

Joe Grimm

It is correct that a bad subhead will make it look like you worked for a weak publication. Including the subhead without a note might imply you don't know it's wrong.

I am looking for some comments on this, especially from editors: What would you think if we cut off the subhead and attached a note saying, "I have omitted a bad subhead that ran with this article." Does that mitigate things? Is it just as bad as including the subhead? Is it ethical?

---

Coming Friday: He met with an editor for an informational interview and now must send clips. He hopes that a cover letter isn't needed.

---