10 tips for editors on getting along
It seems a good time to revisit the importance of getting along in the newsroom. Many factors can affect the work environment — personalities and pressures among them. A key to comity is effort. Diplomacy helps, too.
Getting along in the newsroom is an attribute that will distinguish an editor from a colleague who is equally skilled at working with content but who has not mastered the art of working with people. These tips are designed to help the reporter-editor relationship, but they can apply to all colleagues in many situations.
10 Ways Editors Can Work Well with Others
- Talk to reporters. Don’t get a reputation for talking to reporters only when you have questions. But be sincere. Make small talk only if you really mean it.
- Accept others’ weaknesses — don’t be annoyed by them. Reporters probably see weaknesses in you, too.
- Show respect. Don’t talk aloud with others about reporters’ stories that need work.
- Keep an open mind. Don’t assume the reporter will be unapproachable, even on deadline. Listen to a reporter’s responses to your questions. Repeat the answer as you understand it, to avoid miscommunication.
- Take your time. When asking questions, be thoughtful and tactful. Ask specific questions. Be articulate. Decide ahead of time what you don’t understand in a story and what information you think is missing.
- Comment on the story, not the reporter. Avoid “I” and “you,” two words that personalize things. If you ever have been disrespected, remember what that felt like.
- Be empathetic. Asking questions is the easy part; the reporter has the hard part — answering them.
- Work together. Offer suggestions on how to improve copy, but give the reporter an opportunity to do it when time allows. Be ready with feedback.
- Give specific praise. Say more than “good job” or “nice work” when a reporter finishes a story. Acknowledge good work on an attention-getting lead; on a well-organized story; or on a clear explanation of an intricate issue.
- It’s not about you. Remember that you are only one part of anyone’s busy day.
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