Put a face on your coverage

Every newsroom should have a face. I’ve always been of the opinion that in order to cover a particular community, you have to be a part of it.

Knowing about the news takes more than working the cop beat, or getting to know the court clerks or the mayor’s receptionist. It also means talking to average people doing everyday things. That involves getting out into the community outside of covering a story.

Some of the best story ideas and most interesting news tidbits I’ve obtained have come from talking to people while enjoy a latte at the local coffee shop, after a club meeting or at the opening of a local art exhibit.

Not only is it a good tool for developing new sources outside of your daily beats, it enhances your credibility. Readers want to put a face to the stories they read. They want to meet you, tell you a bad joke and bend your ear about what they think the topic of your next article should be. But 20 minutes later, you’ll have a new, friendly source that will call you the next time they have a hot tip.

* Have coffee out every afternoon at the same place. Hang around for a while, talk to the owner, the employees and the regulars. Soon, they’ll start sharing interesting items.

* Join a local civic group. It’s a good way to talk to sources outside of the “office” and to develop one-on-one relationships that will help with stories down the road. And, as many new reporters have learned over the years, it’s a good way to get a free meal on the boss’ dime.

* Take part in a sport. Whether it’s disc golf or co-ed softball. Join a local team to meet new people. It’s also a great way to decompress after a hard day.

* Attend local chamber of commerce mixers. Most chambers hold monthly mixers that are an excellent opportunity for networking. Grab some snacks and unwind while meeting people who are looking to blow off a little steam. There’s always someone venting about a local hot topic that has an inside track.

* Attend social gatherings such as art exhibit receptions, the opening for a new store and other gatherings. People are relaxed and usually chatting about something that was on the front page. It’s also a good time to meet business owners who make great sources and usually have some good story ideas.

* Have dinner or lunch at a restaurant with outdoor seating. You can enjoy a meal while still visible to passersby. People are always more willing to approach you when you’re eating outside rather than when you’re seated indoors.

* Attend local events such as barbecues, the annual Fourth of July fireworks, football games and other activities. They’re a great place to be seen and to talk to sources.

* Take part in school and group activities if you have children. Your children will love the attention and you get to meet other parents where education and local schools are the main topic.