Barra, 49, is by all accounts an impressive leader with a valuable background in manufacturing engineering, great people skills and a tremendous work ethic.

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"We look across the board for people who are ambitious, collaborative and have great communication skills, " says Matt Hamlet, vice president of talent acquisition.

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While Long and Joseph have complementary skills, they put a great value on the people they hire.

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Most people who choose to become journalists have great advantages good educations and the sorts of skills that can translate into other professions.

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