воскресенье, 4 июля 2010 г.

Tips on becoming a successful journalist

The most important thing a journalist must have is a thick skin. Because in this type of world you will either break it or make it. Editors will reject your story for whatever reason they may find it not usable and others will critique your work and respond with a harsh opinion of your story. This is not pleasant for anyone but if being a reporter is in you, you will take the criticism and turn it into strengths and it will not only show in your work but people will respect you even more.


Here are a few tips to become a good newspaper/TV reporter.

1. Be ready for the rejection as it will happen at times, especially if you want to do a story. It is up to you as a reporter to keep on the up and up even if it takes going to the top (the mayor or CEO) to get the story you want. It is practically a primarily goal for you to succeed by having a great story and with this type of determination and ambition, you will impress your editor, and have shown him or her that you are dedicated with working in the media. Also remember, editors absolutely do not like slackers and one of their biggest pet peeve is a missed deadline. So please be on time with stories.

2. One of the most important aspect as a journalist is having great listening skills and observing. Be open to new insights as which can be one of the many factors as being a great researcher as well. You will gain more credibility by listening to what issues needs to be heard and what you can do on your part to change it. This shows that you is putting your heart into what you love and not just being a reporter for the sake of it.

3. Have some good questions ready to be answered from the person you is prepared to interview. It is best to do some research on some of your questions and the surroundings you may do your interview in. Be ready for some people that may dodge a certain question because if it happens you will have a backup one. You don't want the interviewee to get away of not answering a question. If you do, you may come out with less information than expected. Be interesting and comfortable enough with each question. The answers you get back depends on the type of questions that is asked.

4. Read a major newspaper like the New York Times daily to keep up what is happening and to get an idea of what could be in your next news story. Jot down notes which makes you more knowledgeable of what events is happening in the world. Also observe writings of other reporters and the good use of grammar and punctuation skills used. Remember, you can learn the most by others.

5. Be truthful, don't assume something that you don't know, because one small slip up such as a false information can lead you with no job. Also when writing a story do not plagiarize which is a big no no. Plagiarism is a big penalty in the journalism world and it is a guarantee there will be a heavy price to pay. Be original; your stories must come with your own ideas and thoughts and not from others.

These are some of the skills needed to be a good reporter. Be confident, original, a great listener, good communicator and persistent. If you have all these qualities or can learn to obtain them, then you are on your way!

http://www.helium.com/items/217323-tips-on-becoming-a-successful-journalist

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