Journalist… Is There A Future For You?

The paneled discussion was sponsored by Mashable and Columbia University’s own Sree Sreenivasan (@sreenet) and Vadim Lavrusik (@lavrusik). Representing two generations of the School of Journalism, Sreenivasan and Lavrusik put together a presentation to give some reassurance to folks who believe that our industry is a dying breed.

On a personal note — I have been a part of online new media since 2004. I’ve witnessed the transition from print to this new form of journalism that we have now. While we’re witnessing a rise of the “blogger” or “citizen journalist” — I agree with Sig Gissler who says that the “tra-digital” journalist is the one who will be able to survive these changing times.

Extra special kudos for the folks at 92Y and Mashable who put on a stellar event. If you weren’t there, enjoy these tips below:

Keys To New Age Journalism:

As mentioned above, Sig Gissler speaks of the “tra-digital journalist” — which is one who still does the work. He/she follows the beat, are adapt at investigative reporting, but also are critically thinking about branding, marketing, and monitoring online trends. It is important to also note that citizen journalism is a real trend and while it has been proven to be real-time and vital in relaying facts, the “tra-digital journalist” is one who has the connections and resources to make sure that they not only are proven stats, but that they can be relayed to the masses both virally and through tradition means.

Be A Pointer, Not Just A Broadcaster:

Pointers are folks who direct the audiences attention to newsworthy events. They filter out the noise from other forms of media. As a pointer one must use it to listen, not broadcast. It is important to connect with your audience as they are as important as you are. Finding new stories, trends, and sources to feed your audience is a key factor in being a pointer. Extra points go to those who are adept at helping a company or one’s self to create, craft, and enhance the brand.

Wear More Than One Hat:

With so many cutbacks and lay-offs, you can see the trend where businesses are paying a few to do many things. Today’s journalist must not only know the rules of writing a story, but they must know how to get that story out to the masses, SEO, and the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making content available. If you haven’t learned CSS, HTML, PHP, JavaScript or ActionScript yet, it’s important that you do so IMMEDIATELY!

Be Your Own Brand:

As the journalism industry merges into other avenues of expression, it is also important to keep your individuality. Be an entrepreneur within the company, as opposed to just a company spokesperson. In order to do so, you must have credibility amongst your audience, be able to influence them and others, and know the numbers. Google Analytics is your friend, people! Understanding the value and dangers of metrics will help you gauge what your audience responds to and in the end being creative with your voice will allow you to stand out.

Network, Network, Network:

As I said before, one of the things about being in social media is being “social”. While navigating this industry one must always be a clear and personal communicator. When sending emails to possible contacts make sure you reintroduce yourself, have a clear subject line, and think your message through. We’re still in a business and just because you had a great conversation with someone the night before doesn’t give you full access the next day.

Be A Permanent Learner:

Lastly veteran and new journalists alike must share this common thesis — be open to new ideas. We don’t have time for stale ideas and stagnant thoughts. Continue to be a voracious reader, question trends and topics that need an honest discussion. Be a permanent learner! Follow sites like ReadWriteWeb, LifeHacker, Poynter, and of course, Black Web 2.0.

Who’s going to what tonight? As we ’round the corner on Social Media Week here in NYC — tell us what you’ve learned so far!

About the Author
Kevin L. Clark, aka Clark Kent, aka Batman, may go by a few well known monikers, but his writing is in a class of its own. Having penned features for XXL, KING, VIBE and GIANT Magazine, Clark Kent built his name up from the ground-up, beginning with HipHopDX.com. Now, the founder of his own site - Don't Lose Your Day Job [dot com] - Clark Kent joins Black Web 2.0 to push the absurd to the forefront and keep a smile on your face.
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