Some journalists decide to become specialists in specific areas, such as health, crime, the environment etc. These are known as ‘beats’ in some countries and ‘specialisms’ in others.
Specialisation allows a journalist to develop expertise and provide in-depth rather than superficial coverage.
Here we look at the concept of specialist reporting, its advantages and challenges, and how to succeed in this role.
What is a ‘beat’?
A beat is when a journalist focus on a specialised area of news coverage, such as health, education, or transport. In America the term ‘beat’ is often used. In other countries ‘specialism’ is preferred.
Today, specialist reporters are responsible for identifying and reporting newsworthy events within their assigned area, providing context and analysis to help their audience understand the issues being covered. Throughout this article we will use the term ‘specialist reporters’.
Benefits
Specialisms offers several advantages:
- News judgement: Specialist reporters develop a keen understanding of what constitutes news within their area. They can discern what is truly new, significant, and relevant, thanks to their continuous dealing with the topic.
- Source relationships: By building relationships with leading figures in their specialism, reporters gain access to valuable information and insights. They can also better assess the credibility and motivations of their sources.
- Contextual reporting: Specialist reporters can provide historical and contextual depth to their stories, helping their audience understand the significance of current events.
- Humanising news: Knowing the people behind the stories allows the specialist reporter to tell more humanised stories, and to better understand the impact of events on people.
Challenges
While specialist reporting offers numerous benefits, it also presents potential pitfalls:
- Objectivity: Close relationships with sources can compromise a reporter’s objectivity. It’s crucial to remember that the reporter’s primary responsibility is to the audience, not to their sources.
- Integrity: Sources may attempt to manipulate specialist reporters by withholding information or offering favours. Reporters must remain vigilant and prioritise their journalistic integrity.
- Stagnation: Familiarity can breed complacency. Specialist reporters must continually strive to see their specialism with fresh eyes, recognising the newsworthiness of events that may seem routine.
- Jargon: While expertise is valuable, specialist reporters must translate jargon into clear, accessible language for their audience.
Excelling as a specialist reporter
To succeed as a specialist reporter, consider these strategies:
- Preparation: Thoroughly research your specialism, including its history, leading players, and relevant laws and regulations.
- Contacts: Cultivate relationships with reliable sources in your specialism establishing clear expectations and maintaining open communication.
- News sSense: Develop a strong news sense to identify newsworthy events and angles, even those overlooked by others.
- Simplicity: Translate specialised jargon into clear, concise language that your audience can understand.
- Relationships: Offer value to your sources by providing fair coverage and opportunities to share their perspectives.
- Boundaries: Always remember your duty to the audience, and do not become too close to your sources.
- Learning: Keep up to date with the latest developments in your field, and always be open to learning new things.
Summary
Specialist reporting is a valuable asset to a newsroom because it allows journalists to provide in-depth, informed coverage. By mastering the skills and strategies outlined above, reporters can excel in their chosen area and serve their audience effectively.
