FT Staff Writer
Built In is a network of online communities for startups and tech companies. We currently operate BuiltInChicago.com, BuiltInColorado.com and BuiltInLA.com, BuiltInAustin.com and will be rapidly expanding into other markets in 2015 and beyond. As a venture backed startup, we are growing like crazy and need a dynamic tech writer to keep up with us.
What’s the job?
The fulltime writer/journalist will be joining our fulltime editor and writers as an integral part of the Built In team. The writer will be a data lovin’, analytical, tech-crazy reporter with a fresh writing style.
The writer will always ask the most insightful questions during phone/Skype/in-person interviews with local entrepreneurs and will be so personable that local tech companies are just itching to send them the latest scoop. The writer will also be so astute and reliable that other press outlets and government leaders regard him/her as go-to person for local tech news.
The markets we operate in represent some of the most up and coming tech companies today. You will report on organizations like Snapchat, Groupon, Techstars, Maker Studios, various prominent venture capital firms, the mayor's office and more. Moreover, we are connected to a massive network of tech founders, CEO's, venture capitalist and other executives. This will give you access to some of America's leading minds.
So what would I be doing?
While every day is different, you can bet you will be responsible for:
Content creation and curation
- Pitch and write at least ten stories a week. Built In covers: breaking news stories (fundings, exits), profile pieces, event coverage and data-based trend stories. Depending on the type of article our published work varies from 300-1000 words.
Research
- Responsible for constantly consuming tech news and sifting through tech reports each day;
- Conduct in-depth research for both quick turnaround and long-term features;
- Identify content relevant to Built In’s hyper-local audiences and produce original content through analysis or synthesis of existing stories;
- Find and articulate underlying stories in Built In’s own data reports and in other published tech reports; and
- Provide background research and fact-checking for other writers’ stories.
What type of folks are you looking for? We want people with:
Communication skills
- Must be comfortable approaching and interviewing high-profile individuals; and
- Must be a clear, confident speaker and writer.
Interest in and knowledge of the digital industry
- The writer must be passionate about three things: (1) technology (2) building innovative digital products and services; and (3) helping companies grow. This is what we do.
- Know how to navigate the local tech scene. The writer will be able to quickly pick out the best people to interview for stories and will know the best ways get in touch with them.
Education
- While a journalism degree is preferred, we value intelligence, personality, experience and overall fit over a degree.