Poynter curated a list of 100 things a journalist should never do.
As these things tend to do, it became a rambling collections of do’s and don’ts, but it was interesting nonetheless. Ten stuck with me as among the most important.
- Strive for context rather than information. Information is plentiful, context is scarce. (@rsm4lsu)
- Journalists should be skeptical, not cynical. (@jmestepa)
- Always make your last question “Is there anything else I should have asked?” (@jamessaft)
- A journalist should never be a friendly dog when reporting and then go snake at the keyboard. ABC. Always Be Congruent. (@carr2n)
- Always be willing to let any answer — including one on deadline — completely change the story’s direction.
- Journalists should be available. Let people know how to e-mail you, call, IM, DM or otherwise get in touch.
- Journalists should be active community members. If you aren’t of the people, you aren’t by the people or for the people.
- Journalists should be comfortable with silence during interviews. You’ll hear & learn more if you’re not talking.
- Journalists should never plead ignorance about the business of news, who pays, how & why. It’s not purist, it’s irresponsible.
- “Look for stories people might miss, even standing next to you. Be curious about seemingly ordinary lives.” http://ow.ly/IS94