30 Dec Journalism basics for everyday writers
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If you’re writing for social media, and/or you want news media coverage for your work or campaign or idea: the principles of journalism apply equally to your posts and media releases.
Some years ago I was involved in the No Fibs citizen journalism project, becoming the editor of the coal seam gas (CSG) campaign.
What follows are links to journalism basics I wrote for No Fibs’ citizen journalists:
News and online media are powerful forces for getting your ideas and opinions heard. The following tips are important for anyone who wants to write a great media release to promote their ideas, business, group or organisation in mainstream media and social media – as well as anyone who wants to be a credible citizen journalist.
In order to be a successful media operator, it’s vital that you understand, respect and recognise the importance of the following basic principles:
* know the difference between fact and opinion
* everyone has an agenda (This is neither a positive or negative statement. It’s vital you are aware of the subtle – or not so subtle – influences on your work.)
* accuracy is fundamental to your credibility and your reputation
* assumptions are the greatest danger to your reporting/media strategy
* newsrooms have a presentation ‘style’ – copy it!
For basic training on each of the above, click on the live links.
As well, it is essential citizen journalists learn how to structure a news story – the same principles apply to media releases! – and be discerning when broadcasting on Twitter.
If you want to develop respectful relationships with your local newsroom, or become an influential citizen journalist, it’s a good idea to read the MEAA code of ethics.
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