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Don’t be afraid to be a source

Sources! Sources! Sources!

Sources are an essential part of creating a news story. Whether it be for radio, television or print, news cannot be reported without them. 

So, what exactly is a source? A source is someone who provides a journalist with information. They can be a well-educated, insightful professional who provides detailed facts or simply a citizen sharing their opinion on the topic at hand. The latter is the type of source I am talking about now. 

Often times I find myself searching for an average, everyday person to share their thoughts. Whether it be on new legislation, something controversial or even someone’s thoughts on a community service project, people are often reluctant to stand in front of a camera and be interviewed.  

I get it, I really do. A camera can be scary for some, and I have to remind myself that not everyone is used to it. I often find myself coaxing people into doing an interview, and people usually commit once they know I can edit out their “ums” and “likes.” 

Being interviewed could make a journalist’s day. Imagine you are a journalist. You’re covering you’re fifth can food drive this month. You are in desperate need of an interview from a participant to express the importance of the drive. You simply need a “colorful” quote to make your story unique and lively. Every time you ask for a source, people deny you. Over, and over, and over again they say “no.” You’re on a tight deadline to finish the story in the next hour. When someone finally says “yes” you’re so relieved. 

The news industry is super quick, and journalists sometimes have to find sources in a matter of minutes. When asked if you will provide a comment on a topic, I highly recommend that you consider it. 

Without hearing your thoughts, the news has no flavor. Every story, at the end of the day, is a story about humanity. It’s hard to put people first when people refuse to speak up. 

By being interviewed, you get to share your opinion with others, educate the public, make a journalist’s job a little easier plus get to see yourself on television. That’s all positives if you ask me. 

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