The Times: Newspapers Targeting Audiences

Question 1

How does the Times attract it’s readership?

Answer 1

• The newspaper appeals to the audience through its content and the inclusion of hard and soft news items.
• For example the lifestyle supplement ‘times2’

Question 2

How do digital versions of The Times appeal to audiences?

Answer 2

• The launch of the edition-based digital format addressed both the need to target a broader audience and understanding that readers of The Times preferred a digital edition that, whilst having some daily updates, closely resembled the print format.
• Distributing the publication across digital platforms allows it to be updated, which will appeal to younger audiences, as will the launch of Times Radio.

Question 3

How does The Times allude to it’s political allegiance?

Answer 3

• Whilst the front page of the newspaper may be less explicit in its political allegiance, other pages in the newspaper and on digital platforms reinforce the right-wing ideology of the newspaper.
• For example the editorial and opinion pieces and political cartoons.

Answer 4

• The Times letters page is culturally iconic and offers readers an opportunity to air their views and interact with the community of the newspaper.
• This page and the ‘Comment’ section of the newspaper reflect the readership and their interests and concerns.

Question 5

Why might

Answer 5

• The values, attitudes and beliefs of the newspaper and the way in which they represent particular stories will resonate with like-minded readers who may have chosen this newspaper because of its (more) right-wing stance.
• Readers will be made to feel part of the newspaper’s community and that the stories and articles reflect their views.
• This audience will accept the preferred reading of the newspaper.