How do we know what is “news”? There are millions of things going on in the world all the time and only some of them become news stories.

The job of the journalist is to uncover the stories that shape our understanding of the world.

"Fake news" encompasses two distinct concepts: fabricated stories masquerading as truth and the dismissal of legitimate news as false.

It’s the job of the journalist to try to find and present the truth, but fact-checking isn't easy. It requires a methodological approach to verification. 

Journalists need to have a system in place for covering a breaking news story in order to know who does what and when.

Without integrity your journalism is untrustworthy and suspect. Integrity is essential if a journalist wants to investigate issues, shine a light in dark places, and to dig where others don't.

Journalists face a difficult balancing act. They must respect privacy, but they must also investigate issues that are in the public interest.

In journalism, public trust is essential for credibility. One of the most significant threats to that trust are the many possible conflicts of interest that might confront journalists.

Planning is critically important in the news business. It’s the mark of professionalism and the essence of good coverage. But there are some things you can’t plan.Big stories happen out of the blue. And when they happen you have to spring into action immediately.

The importance of diversity in journalism extends beyond representation, it is also about enriching the news coverage produced and ensuring its relevance to a wider audience.

The output of a news organisation is determined by how well the newsroom is run. A well-managed newsroom is more likely to produce compelling and engaging content focused on audience need.

In this article we look at the steps involved in creating a news and current affairs programme based on the needs of the target audience.

A media house needs to be continually assessing whether its output is meeting the needs of the audience and achieving business targets.

Knowing your audience and understanding the issues they face are essential factors in developing a compelling editorial proposition.

How should a reporter respond when someone uses emotional pressure and threats to try to stop them doing their job?

In this scenario a reporter feels ethically compromised after accepting hospitality from a developer who subsequently pressured them for favourable coverage.

In this scenario a political correspondent working for a broadcaster is asked to speak at an event organised by a political party - but there is a catch.

Media training is about investing in people - your staff. They are your most precious resource.

Learning Management Systems (LMS) are increasingly becoming the digital backbone of all media training, in particular Training of Trainers (ToT) courses.

Have you got any journalism expertise that you are willing to share with others? If so, please get in touch.