The reporter’s constitution
Anyone who considers themselves a journalist must abide personally and professionally by the following career measurements and ethical guidelines. Through objectivity and truth seeking, and most of all an urgency to report news to the public, all journalists must always be aware of democracy and the ability to shuffle through common happenings and shed light on what matters.
The purpose of journalism is to tell the truth and all sides to a story.
*Unless writing an editorial or a column, avoid only giving one side of a story.
*Double check the accuracy of quotes and facts which appear in your stories.
*If at a management position in your media outlet, create a balance of stories that do not create a certain image of embrace or involvement.
*Do not distort photos, headlines, ledes of stories, videos on websites and captions on photos.
*Gender, race, religion, personal values and beliefs should never be mentioned in a negative way and should be avoided if possible. Don’t stereotype.
*Think outside the box and analyze situations from all angles.
Do whatever it takes to get what you need for a story, but never go too far.
*Be polite and courteous, but if buttons need to be pushed, then push them, without putting yourself in harms way.
*Do not give up your sources, even if being questioned by a higher court of law. (We’re still waiting for the Federal Shield Law…)
*Keep the feelings of others in mind. You may have a job to do, but put yourself in someone else’s shoes before throwing their name or role into a story.
*Know the difference between the public and private sector.
Even the smallest things can make the biggest difference.
*Make sure every name in your story is spelt right.
*Do not copy, cheat or steal from another writer.
*Know your competition and become better than them.
*Use proper grammar (refer to the AP style guide if necessary).
*Know media law and what you can and can not get away with.
*File for the proper credentials when necessary.
*Gain experience and use it to your benefit.
*Know how to accept and give criticism.
*Improve your mental skills because your mind is the best notepad.
*Start early and know how to multi-task with the best of them.
*Be on time and early. You never know what may or may not happen at strange times.
*Be stern and do not take no for an answer.
*Know that your word means more to some people than anything else.
*Be original. Create your own style and let it flow.
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