reporter

A reporter has an important role in the radio, there job is to find and tell the current news stories for the organisation they work for. They can work for a small radio station or be based national. The places in which the reporter can work can vary, from working in an office news room to being outside reporting live events. The types of news a reporter can cover is diverse ranging from covering the traffic in a local area to the latest news on Afghanistan. They must also have a good idea about how to use both indoor and outdoor recording kits.

Reporters also need good knowledge of the media laws and regulations and research the news story's they are reporting to make sure all the information is correct, using everything from the Internet to a library. when conducting interviews questions are expected to be thought of in advance. Although as a reporter you are given assignments you are also expected to generate ideas and story's to report.

As with most jobs in radio degrees are not always essential although they do help, the degree is not always expected to be in a media related subject, and a news reported subjects such as law, politics or business are useful, a degree in journalism would increase your chance of getting a job in that area. there are also trainee schemes that some of the bigger businesses run, although experience is required of at least 2years to have the highest chance of being chosen and have a journalism qualification.

Essential Knowledge & Skills
Reporters need the following:

• a sense of what makes a good news story
• ability to generate original ideas and to think creatively about how to communicate them
• excellent writing and story-telling skills which they can adapt for different audiences and platforms
• an understanding of how to use their voice to communicate effectively with listeners
• knowledge of the Radio market, different station and programme styles and audience demographics
• curiosity and inquisitiveness, a willingness to ask questions but also to listen
• the confidence and tenacity to pursue information, overcome obstacles and pitch ideas to senior colleagues
• self-motivation and adaptability
• ability to work independently but also as part of a team
• ability to work effectively under pressure, react quickly and meet tight deadlines
• ability to cope with the demands of live reporting and interviewing
• determination, diplomacy and excellent interpersonal skills
• empathy and patience, the ability to build rapport and draw information from people
• ability to maintain objectivity in order to be fair and balanced in the treatment of stories
• an interest in news and current affairs and good general knowledge
• a thorough knowledge of the law, ethics and industry regulation as they affect radio and the practice of journalism
• knowledge of when it is necessary and how to acquire the relevant clearances and licenses, including copyright and music clearances
• knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures
• a high level of IT skills - particularly good word-processing and data handling skills
• the ability to learn how to use a variety of recording equipment and to operate different radio studios
• ability to conduct effective internet research, use relevant computer software for audio editing, and, when necessary, to manipulate visual images or edit video, and upload all such material for use on websites

http://www.creativeskillset.org/radio/careers/jobs/article_7761_1.asp