Conversation A

A: I can see by your resume here that you studied business administration.

B: That’s right.

A: So, I wonder why you want to work for a newspaper.

B: I did reporting for the university newspaper at my school. And I’ve always been very interested in journalism.

A: But journalism—it’s a very different profession from administration. You know a lot about administration. Why don’t you choose to work for a company looking to train managers?

B: I studied administration, yes, but I am more interested in writing articles. I want to use my knowledge of business to write financial news.

A: A news reporter must be expected to work many hours.

B: I know that the profession requires dedication.

A: You should expect to work more than fifty hours a week. And there is a lot of pressure in this job. You have to get stories in by the deadline. You have to be very independent. You have to know how to arrange things by yourself.

B: I know that beginning reporters work many hours. I am very willing to take on the challenge.

A: May I ask how well you know the city?

B: I grew up here.

A: But you went to college in Maine. So you haven’t lived here for almost five years, yes?

B: Yes, that’s true. But I grew up on the north side of town. And I know this city very well. I have no trouble getting where I need to go.

A: That’s good. If you’re hired, we will be sending you everywhere. The job is in the city news department.

B: Yes, I’m aware of that.

A: Judging by the stories you gave us, I’d say your writing is very good. Have you written things other than newspaper stories?

B: I have experience writing newsletters for a health club. I mentioned that in my resume.

A: You did that while you were in school?

B: Yes.

A: Oh, yes, I see it. Well, I think our interview is complete then. Are there any questions you would like to ask me?

B: No, not at the moment.

A: Alright, then. We will probably be giving you a call in ten days or so. I have to interview several more people.

B: Thank you, Mr. Jones.