The National Press Club Journalism Institute on May 5, 2026, hosted its second virtual Career Office Hour of the year, this time focused on careers in business journalism and at B2B (business-to-business) or trade publications.
Paul Albergo, a professor at the American University School of Communication and board member of the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), moderated the session and was joined by panelists Maya Earls and Davide Savenije.
Earls is a deputy team lead at Bloomberg Law who has covered education, sports, arts, politics, and breaking news for publications including the Associated Press and the Baltimore Sun. Savenije is the senior vice president of editorial at Informa TechTarget, which covers the technology market, and serves as the president of ASBPE’s board of directors.
The conversation covered job seekers’ most pressing questions on applying to business journalism roles, standing out in interviews, and stepping into editorial management. The speakers shared advice on standing out as an applicant and insights into their organizations’ approaches to hiring.
What business publication leaders look for on job applications
All three speakers acknowledged an oversaturation of talent in the business journalism world, which means the job market is competitive. But they also shared what they, as newsroom veterans, seek out when reviewing applicants.
Earls suggested using specific examples of past work that aligns with the hiring organization’s goals and tone, showing how you can contribute your experience and skillset while differentiating yourself from other reporters. The speakers also agreed that illustrating your process of coverage is helpful for demonstrating your work and thought process.
Similarly, they encouraged applicants to show the impact of their work — both in metrics of engagement, like pageviews, and in broader strokes, like changes to laws or regulations.
Journalists with experience in community journalism may be particularly equipped for business journalism because of their ability to pursue leads and interact with sources without fear. Savenije pointed out that the business sector itself is a community of its own.
How to set yourself apart in interviews
For many people, the interview is the most daunting part of the job application process. But Earls encouraged job seekers not to “be afraid to brag” when face-to-face with hiring managers.
The speakers echoed the advice in an earlier Career Office Hour from former director of news talent at The Associated Press, Corinne Chin (now the director of video talent at The New York Times), who suggested that journalists use their research prowess to look into the organization and interviewer to show in real-time how you can dig deep.
The speakers also recommended asking interviewers questions to show curiosity — and to evaluate the organization at the same time they’re evaluating you. The role should be a good fit and “not just a job,” Albergo said.
Job searching for editorial management positions
While there are different schools of thought when it comes to hiring editorial managers, Savenije said, he seeks out applicants who are “really good with people” and demonstrate their abilities to support and nurture reporters, especially those early in their careers.
To Earls, a strong candidate for an editorial manager should thoroughly demonstrate their approach to various situations and issues in past positions. She added that it’s important to show a “strong vision” for the hiring team with an understanding of where the team is now and how to develop it.
Savenije also noted an intangible skill that’s harder to develop: “Taste,” or being able to evaluate and appreciate standout journalism in alignment with an organization’s strategy.
How to network for business and B2B journalism jobs
While the advice for networking is relevant to all journalism jobs, not just those in business, the speakers each noted that attending events like the Institute’s Career Office Hour is a step in the right direction.
Albergo recommended not asking directly for a job but for a brief meeting with someone who can help you with your job search. He recommended connecting with organizations like ASBPE to make helpful professional connections. Business journalism is a very small industry, the speakers agreed, and one’s reputation will often precede them.
Earls shared that in addition to networking, seeking out a public speaking class was one of her most formative professional development experiences.
And while the market is tough, Earl added, it’s important not to get discouraged. She recommended applying to the same organization for different roles, as a “no” can just as easily mean “not right now.”
Tags: business journalism, Career, Leadership