To many journalism is a glamorous profession. The reasons are many. Some think journalists have unfettered access to corridors of power. To others reportage of live action is an unparalleled thrill. There are also many who believe in the opinion-moulding role the media play.
Journalism for many is synonymous with the image of a reporter with a notepad and pen chasing, probably, a controversial VIP. Her job is all about words and she deals in information that people would like to know, or what we call news.
The technological innovations have had their impact on the conventional print journalism. News now flows much faster. And, keeping pace with this rapid flow of news is one big challenge for a journalist.
A newsroom can be broadly divided into two sections – the reporting and the editorial. Reporters gather information and submit, what journalists call, stories to the editorial desk. The editorial team sifts through news (filed by reporters) and decides what to publish and in what manner.
Deadline is very sacrosanct. Time to gather information is limited, at the same time the publication of news can’t be delayed until all possible details have been gathered. It’s a tightrope walk.
Journalism is interesting, provided you have interest in people, places, events and issues around us. Journalists do a thankless job. They miss out on social events, their day stretches into night and night stretches into day. Weekdays are often weekends and weekends weekdays. But if you have the passion, no amount of money or perks will equal the joy the job brings.
Reporting news
Think of journalist and the picture of a reporter with a pad and pen, or with a mike flashes in your mind. Click here to know the nuances of reporting news for a newspaper.
Role of a Chief Sub-editor
A Chief Copy Editor or a Chief Sub-editor plays a pivotal role in the editorial production of a newspaper. Click here to know more.
Misconceptions about journalism
Many people think media is very powerful. Maybe true, but only to some extent. It isn’t a prosecuting agency or a superstate with extrajudicial powers. Learn more here.
This is indeed a great site! Debby