It is not easy to be a news reporter. You are always on the job, looking for information, trying to develop sources. You are always working under pressure because you cannot afford to miss a story. You also cannot afford to make mistakes.
Yet, it is a job that can give you immense satisfaction. It can also bring you fame, and recognition. You will get to meet famous people, and, if you are lucky, witness history being made.
The question is do you have the qualities to become a hotshot reporter. This report lists eight qualities that hotshot reporters have. If you have them, then you should consider becoming a news reporter. Otherwise, seek another job.
Quality 1
Hunger for information: You should be hungry for information, because your success depends on how curious are you. You have to unearth information, no matter how much effort it may need. There is no last mile for a reporter. The quest for information is unending. The more you push frontiers, the more information you will source.
Quality 2
Scepticism: You must be sceptical, and never accept anything at face value. Learn to question anything and everything. This is the only way you can unclothe falsehoods, and shine the light on truth. You must always remember that there are people out there who want to use you, make you publish stories that are plants. You should not fall into their trap. Instead, check and crosscheck every bit of information that comes your way.
Quality 3
Powers of Observation: You must always be alert, absorbing information even if it is not immediately relevant. You never know when some random statement or a little known fact can lead you to a big story. The best reporters have minds like sponges. They methodically absorb every small bit of information, and so should you.
Quality 4
Outgoing nature: You must love meeting people, and visiting places. Also, you should not be easily discouraged. Instead, you should keep pursuing people and leads until you get what you want. Your work does not end with interviewing officials or attending press conferences. You must enjoy attending parties, and meeting new people.
Quality 5
Ready to work long hours: You should be ready to work long hours. A newsbreak may occur just when you are leaving for home. You will have to abandon your plans, get on the phone or even rush to the news site. You cannot expect to live a regular or routine life. Each day is different, and comes with different challenges.
Quality 6
Ability to write: Your writing should be simple, and lucid. People of all ages and backgrounds should understand it. Each word must be chosen carefully, and communicate the right meaning. The information must be presented with absolute clarity. You cannot afford to cloud information. More importantly, you should be able to present information in as few words as possible.
Quality 7
Pleasant personality: You have to meet all kinds of people as part of your job. Some may be indifferent, some downright obnoxious. Some may make you wait for hours or fob you off with rude answers. You have to learn to take such behaviour in your stride. You cannot afford to antagonise your sources. You have to stay calm and patient, and always present a pleasant face.
Quality 8
Nose for news: You should have a nose for news. You should sense, and pursue information, that is of value to readers. You should have the knack to differentiate routine information from information that individuals or organisations want to hide. The latter is what makes news. (Read also: What is a news beat)
You must remember that good reporters are much more than mere news gatherers. They are the nation’s watchdogs and conscience keepers. You too can join the tribe if you have fire in your belly and stars in your eyes.
Note: This may not be a comprehensive list. Please add any other qualities that good reporters should have.
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