journalism lectures

Since last week, I have received quite a number of lectures from my editors. Although of course, one almost killed me, but it was actually the first time I felt they started caring about what I've been writing and how I'm going to write it.

Now I have to be honest, much of the lessons they've given me are obvious notes on journalism but when you're in the field, everything seems so different. Theories have separated from practice, and the initial reaction of a new reporter in a beat is to actually go with the flow and join the bandwagon.

Lesson 1. Call.
It amazes me how my reporter-friends can survive through phone calls when I had to always at some sort of event to get a story. But seeing her makes me realize it is possible. I just have to have the guts to call.
Lesson 2. What's in it for the Philippines?
As a foreign affairs writer, not everything they say matters. It may be newsworthy for them, but for us Filipinos, we might not care a big. When doing a story, this is always the first question I need to ask myself.
Lesson 3. Treat each day as if there's no press conference.
Of course. I can never be dependent of coverages and press releases. I should also learn how to look for a story. I really have to make phone calls.
Lesson 4. Always call the agencies involved for reactions.
Lesson 5. Just call. Don't be apprehensive.
Yeah, keep telling me that.
Lesson 6. Take advantage of your femininity.
It's actually quite funny to notice how some melt at the sight of young ladies. This is probably because a lot are older than 30 (or at least look like it). There seems to be some sort of kindness towards us younger ones. It funny but it works.