Best Journalism Working Practices I Learned That You Can Use Too

All of them can help you outside of writing as well

You know how people usually divide themselves into two separate groups: the ones with an analytical and critical approach and the creative ones, right? Well, I’m happy to share that I belong to both - currently my main professional field is in the web development industry, but I’ve spent my college years crafting the art of journalism.

I’ve always loved the power of words, helping me develop ideas, share knowledge, and experience an enormous palette of emotions. On the other hand, my passion for coding and programming made me want to dig into things simply to understand how they work and what can be done for them to work even better. Both my passions turned out to be a golden ticket to a career in journalism - even though my life took a different direction some years later, I still managed to gather some amazing experiences from my college years.

Journalism tips and tricks that can boost your career

I figured that some of the journalism practices I mastered could be of amazing benefit to someone who wants to pursue this (or any other) professional endeavor.

I strongly believe that the best journalism tips and tricks can also apply to other writing styles, as well as to other fields of professional experience too.

I’ll be more than happy to share with you the best tips and tricks from my journalism years in college hoping that many of you will be able to integrate the ideas into their daily working lives.

Journalism is no doubt an amazing field of expertise

It’s definitely not enough to just have a decent and attention-grabbing style of writing. The main goal of any journalistic article is to provide the reader with truthful information, a different point of view, a well-researched subject, and thought-provoking essence.

When you come to think about it, all those criteria can easily be applied to many different fields of occupation.

In order to achieve their end goal, every journalist (and not only) should stick to various practices for dazzling end results. Here are my top picks:

• When indulging in a new professional endeavor, try gathering as much truthful information as possible
• Critical thinking is a must
• Take in mind all the different points of view - sometimes other ideas might turn out to be real gems
• Keeping a deadline can teach you a great deal of self-discipline
• Learn to have a strictly professional approach to subjects that don’t correspond to your personal preferences
• Take editing and revision criticism as helpful and an incredible source to learn from

When indulging in a new professional endeavor, try gathering as much truthful information as possible

Nowadays we are surrounded by plenty of information, especially online - pretty much everyone uses the web to get all the details needed on a specific subject. Truth be told, this tendency is both coming in handy and can be quite dangerous.
As a journalist, I learned that it’s extremely important to double and even triple-check your initial information and research. As someone who is about to inform others, it’s crucial to point out believable and authoritative resources. Don’t risk counting on sketchy information.

Critical thinking is a must

The very next piece of advice I want to share has to do with critical thinking - sadly nowadays I see too many people ready to believe anything they see or hear. Forming an opinion is essential and it has to be able to withstand various contradictions. Although keeping a neutral informative state, you should always doubt what ends up in your eyesight.

Take in mind all the different points of view - sometimes other ideas might turn out to be real gems

In journalism, one must always have in mind all the different points of view, since this approach is quite respectful towards all audiences. In addition to that, gaining a different perspective can ultimately boost your inspiration. Discuss the matter with people, engage in dialogues, investigate new ideas.

Keeping a deadline can teach you a great deal of self-discipline

In journalism, covering a story often has to do with keeping a specific deadline. Some people work better under pressure, while others prefer managing their own time and tasks. Either way, you should try training yourself in setting a deadline and keeping it - this approach will surely make you far more self-disciplined and better at finishing up to-do lists.

Learn to have a strictly professional approach to subjects that don’t correspond to your personal preferences

Let’s be clear and honest - few are the ones lucky enough to engage in professional tasks that are to their liking all the time. Sometimes your work schedule will demand diving into not-so-pleasant endeavors. When this happens, you should be able to embrace a strictly professional approach - what needs to be done, needs to be done well. Remember that better tasks are coming.

Take editing and revision criticism as helpful and an incredible source to learn from

At some point in our professional lives, we all have mentors, editors, reviewers. Their job, essentially, is to overview our job and make the necessary corrections. Sometimes, of course, this process can feel really discouraging and as a setback. I think it’s important to change your perspective here - there were times when I didn’t really fancy my articles’ criticism, but I learned to take it as a part of the game. Plus, each and every revision of your work helps you develop your skills and talents.

No one is born educated.  See editing and reviews as an investment in your professional role for the future’s sake.