Occupation journalist

Journalists collect and analyse facts about newsworthy events by interview, investigation or observation. Report and write stories for newspapers, news magazines, radio or television.

Tasks

• Select, write and report (on) current stories for publication, broadcast or narrowcast, keeping to deadlines.
• Review copy and correct errors in content, grammar and punctuation, adhere to editorial style, formats, possibilities and limitations of the media.
• Gather information through (desk) research, interviews, field experience and by attending social events and public functions.
• Make significant news interesting and relevant to target audience, keep the news comprehensive and proportional, describe and illustrate detail as well as background.
• Analyse audiences and their interests, present different sides to a (conflicting) story, use multiple original sources and verify story before publication.
• Stay abreast of trends and issues, know who's who and how to reach them, and recognise newsworthy issues in the society.
• Consult the persons who decide on the selection of stories (such as editors or programme directors) and technical personnel (e.g. audiovisual operators) for support, if needed.
• Maintain independence, withstand pressure, bribes or presents from interested parties and abstain from topics involving own personal interests. Credit and protect sources, and avoid plagiarism
• Provide a forum for public opinion and stimulate it through editorials, columns and reviews.
• Respond to and interact with individuals and target audiences through the media.

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