When covering a speech the reporter must try to figure out its purpose. The four possibilities are:
1. The speech is aimed to inform the audience
2. The speech is meant to persuade the audience
3. The speech is meant to move the audience into action
4. The speech is meant to entertain the audience.
The reporter should then try to listen to the points being made by the speaker. Normally, a speech will be divided in three parts: the introduction, the body and the conclusion.
The introduction itself gives an idea of the purpose of the speech. The reporter then needs to listen to the points the speaker is making to give substance to the purpose. Finally, the conclusion will inform the audience of how the speaker proposes to achieve the objective.
There was a time when the reporter had no other option but to take notes as the speaker spoke. Today, it is advisable to carry a small recorder. You can then play back the speech in your office to get the best quotes.
But this does not mean that you should not make any notes. These should still be made, especially of the key points. They help you organise your thoughts when you get down to writing the story. They also work as a fallback in case your recorder develops a snag.
Today, the press team of important speakers also provide a copy of the speech., Sometimes, it is handed over to the press corps in advance. But mostly, it is given as the speaker makes his way towards the podium. This is a common practice in India, and invariably creates a commotion with the reporters stretching out to get a copy of the speech.
A good reporter also tracks the audience response. Are there catcalls? Is there enthusiastic applause? Or is there only a polite clapping of hands?
Another point that the reporter must check is the audience size. Is the auditorium full? Was it full before the speaker came or did it start filling after the arrival of the speaker? These are minor points but add an extra dimension to the copy.
Sometimes the speaker decides to make an impromptu announcement that is not included in the prepared text. This can be a significant point, and all reporters must be prepared for it.
Another good practice is to try and get a minute or two with the speaker in what is called on “the sidelines of the event”. You can use this opportunity to ask a quick question based on the speech or on an issue that the speaker has been expounding. If you are lucky, you may come up with a story that no other reporter has.
It is therefore important to stay back and listen to the full speech, and not run away after getting the physical text.
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