What makes a good journalist?

A good journalist is someone who has the ability to think, question and explore. Key qualities such as determination, drive, persistence and passion are attributes you need to pursue a career in journalism. It’s essential that we have strong interactional and communication skills, as journalists need to be confident and comfortable to approach others.

Yesterday’s law lecture consisted of a few pointers on becoming a good journalist. In the words of Chris Horrie: “Be rude, rude is good”. Although this seems out of the ordinary, we need to challenge journalism and act interrogatively, to excel beyond the standard level. He has continuously drilled three words into our minds: fast, accurate and fair. A good journalist will be up to date with current affairs in order to be able to report quickly, efficiently and fairly. Most importantly, journalists cannot be wrong, accuracy is vital! Although opinions and comments are our own, facts and figures need to be precise.