- The Economist advertised a Science and Technology correspondent position, valuing knowledge, writing ability, and curiosity over prior journalistic experience.
- The author, feeling they met the criteria, applied with two sample articles focusing on science and technology to fill a perceived gap in the publication's internet coverage.
- Despite submitting an application and multiple follow-ups, the author received no acknowledgment or rejection, eventually learning via phone that some applications were considered too low quality to respond to.
- The author expresses disappointment at the lack of basic courtesy, contrasting it with their own practice of treating applicants well and even redirecting them to other opportunities.
- The author shares the two sample articles they wrote and invites honest feedback on their writing.