Unsure of what to do after graduation? We at Spiffington are here to help! We offer a wide selection of brochures for a variety of diverse options. Curious about what it takes to be a writer for the Daily Prophet, a DADA professor, or even a Deatheater? (We at Spiffington are not here to judge--just to provide information!) Well, look no further then Spiffington's Career Guides for The Young Witch or Wizard!
Disclaimer: not affiliated with Hogwarts, the Ministry, The Daily Prophet, You-Know-Who, or J.K. Rowling.
So You Want to Be a WRITER FOR THE DAILY PROPHET?
Introduction:
So you want to be a writer for The Daily Prophet? This is a very competitive field to get into! A newspaper writer is expected to write articles on a weekly or even daily basis. The articles must be both interesting and unique. A writer must also be able spot news as it happens!
Section 1: Requirements
1. The ability to write creatively.
Readers want to be entertained so articles must be interesting. For example:
Not interesting: 'Two Hogwarts students broke into Honeydukes last night stealing a case of butterbeer, a box of sugar quills, and a bag of 500 chocolate galloons. They were apprehended when Mr. Habernash--who had been drinking heavily that evening--collided with them two blocks from the store.'
Interesting: 'Last night, under the cover of darkness, two thieves broke into Honeydukes--the much loved candy store in Hogsmead. The two crooks stole a variety of items including a bag containing 500 galloons! Thankfully the two miscreants were apprehended by Mr. Habernash. This brave wizard threw himself at the two--risking great bodily harm--to insure that they didn't escape. The wizarding world can sleep better tonight knowing that there are citizens such as Mr. Habernash willing to do whatever it takes to keep our streets safe.'
Also important is the ability to create eye-catching headlines that immediately draw the reader's attention.
For example, few people want to read an article titled:
'THE IMPORTANCE OF CLEANING CAULDRONS'
However many would want to read the article if it were titled:
'KILLER CAULDRONS!! WHAT EVERY WITCH SHOULD KNOW!'
2. The ability to find newsworthy stories.
Being the first on a scene gives you an edge over other writers. The ability to predict when a story is about to break is invaluable. It is also helpful to be able to create your own news on slow days. Now we here at Spiffington's are not suggesting that you make-up stories! We are simply stating that you must find ways to turn bits of information into interesting articles. For example, hearing that a shipment of newt eyes is late is not very interesting. But, in a pinch you can turn that information into an article titled: CRITICAL NEWT EYE SHORTAGE!! Supplies of this Crucial Potion Ingredient are Dwindling!
3. The ability to gather information.
Daily Prophet writers must be able to efficiently gather information. By doing research, interviewing, or simply being in the right place at the right time you can find just what you need for an article! Don't be afraid to ask the hard questions!
4. A unique angle or perspective.
No one wants to read the same old thing. A writer must be able to find new ways to approach a topic. Information from the subject's past, a possible romance, or hints of a scandal always make articles more interesting! In addition, exclusive interviews and exposes are always in demand!
Section 2: Famous Daily Prophet Writers
Rita Skeeter, Zamira Gulch, Grizel Hurtz, Professor Helbert Spleen, Dempster Wiggleswade
Section 3: How to Apply
Apply in person at the offices of the Daily Prophet in Diagon Alley or submit an original article to 'Barnabas Cuffe, Editor, The Daily Prophet'.
Note-- This job is not for you if: you are afraid of controversy, are unable to write, or believe that writing should be plain fact without any "embellishments".
