Our ‘meet the journo’ feature allows you to meet the faces behind the names and get to know the journalists, editors and key influencers at some of Yorkshire’s leading publications.
This month we interviewed leading Yorkshire journalist Nick Hill, deputy editor at The Business Desk. Writing about breaking news stories across Yorkshire every day, Nick showcases the fantastic businesses that work in Leeds and supports innovation and start-ups from launch to national growth.
Have a read of the full interview below and follow Nick on Twitter here.
How did your career in journalism unfold?
As far as I can remember I’ve always had a fondness for writing and storytelling. As a result, I was naturally drawn to the subject of English throughout high school, college and then onto Leeds Metropolitan University, where I eventually gained a degree in English Literature.
After leaving university I really wanted to pursue a career in writing and, an obvious fit would be journalism. The fact that I always had my head in the news or following current events also contributed to this decision.
My first foray into the profession was as a staff writer for an online pop culture magazine, and it was here that I really felt like a career in journalism was for me.
18 months later I took a leap of faith and entered into the world of business journalism by becoming the new Yorkshire editor of Bdaily – where I spent the next three years.
Just last month, I was appointed the deputy editor of TheBusinessDesk.com where I will continue to cover breaking business news, interview the region’s top business leaders and influencers, and delve deeper into Yorkshire’s ever-goring business community.
What inspires you the most?
During my five or so years in this field, I have really enjoyed meeting and learning about the people behind the stories. Introducing our readers to the journeys of the individuals making the headlines, and also in turn giving them their own platform, is the most satisfying part of my job.
What kind of stories particularly interest you?
Any entrepreneurial stories are always interesting to me. Anyone who chooses to turn their passion into their profession or take a risk and start their own ventures is very inspiring. The best part about following these individuals is seeing their hard work pay off when they become fully fledged business owners! The SME market in Yorkshire is also very diverse and exciting, so there is always something that sparks my interest.
What’s the best story you’ve ever received?
I have worked on a wide variety of stories so choosing the best would be a very hard task indeed! Big or small, any story full of ambition and looking to make a positive impact will always be my favourites.
If I had to choose one it would be the ongoing impact of the Tour de Yorkshire. As a proud Yorkshireman, it was great to see how well received the sporting event was. As well as pumping tens of millions of pounds into the local economy, it also introduced Yorkshire to a whole new global audience.
What are some of your goals for the future?
In the short term, I would like to establish myself here at TheBusinessDesk.com and get out there into the business community to see what other inspirational positive stories I can find. I would also like to showcase and highlight businesses in all corners of the county, not just its main cities.
What are some common myths or challenges about a career in journalism?
The greatest myth is that people think journalists will do whatever it takes to get a good story, even if that means embellishing the truth from time to time. This is totally wrong. The most important aspects of being a journalist is to tell the truth and create trust. In my experience that is what me and my colleagues have always strived to achieve.
What do you believe makes a great story?
A story is great when it can connect with the reader and peaks the interest of as many people as possible. I find the best stories to be those that have a lasting effect on the reader and stops them in their tracks. Especially if it’s a positive one!
What kind of publications do you enjoy reading?
I read anything and everything! Whether it’s in print or online, I like to read a wide range of publications to get a different flavour and style from each one.
How do you cope with the stress of tight deadlines?
Plan ahead! Always make sure you know your schedule, when you are going to be busy or when you may have the rare opportunity for some downtime. Although a journalists day can change in an instance, if you are fully on top of things then you put yourself in a good situation to reach deadlines.
Outside of work, what do you like to do in your spare time?
I love sport! In my spare time I often play basketball, golf and football, and when I can I try to make it to the alps for a week of snowboarding!
I’ve also delved into my musical side by trying to learn the piano, unfortunately it seems I am a slow learner, but I do enjoy it!
What piece of advice would you give to people wanting to pitch their business to you?
Know what story you want to tell about your business. Think as a reader – would you find the story you are pitching interesting? Also be clear on what you are trying to accomplish with the story, as we will not use it if you are trying to get some free PR!
Finally, what’s your favourite thing about Yorkshire?
The people and places! We are a very proud bunch and have such a strong sense of identity!
Yorkshire is such a diverse county with many aspects to show off. Along with some of the country’s most vibrant cities, we also boast breathtaking landscapes and friendly communities.
Yorkshire has something for everyone!
Thanks again Nick for being part of our monthly meet the journo feature. We’ll be back next month with another interview from a leading Yorkshire journalist.
Have a read of August’s interview with Yorkshire Post journalist and deputy business editor, Greg Wright.
