Ask avid viewers of the news and most will tell you they want authenticity in their reporters and anchors. Authenticity is not only refreshing, it’s magnetic.
Audiences don’t tend to remember polished performances as much as those with conviction, honesty, and clarity. They want their news delivered by someone who can stay true to their own voice.
So how can you achieve authenticity as a broadcast journalist where you balance your genuine self with your core journalistic ethics? We’ll take a look.
What Creates Authenticity?
In the simplest of terms, creating authenticity starts with being trustworthy. You want to be credible while posing tough questions with empathy. Stick with the facts and allow them to guide your narrative. As you consider the following, remember that actions speak louder than words.
Establishing and Building Trust
One of the best ways to build trust is by being accountable. Especially these days. You’ll want to think about how you can develop sincere reporting that is unique to you and that will draw an audience. Always respond to questions with fairness and clarity.
In other words, when you establish yourself as trustworthy, you become a go-to source for your audience.
Being Yourself
Experienced TV news talent agents will frequently encourage you to be yourself. What does this mean?
Speak clearly and with confidence. And don’t try to develop a certain affect by changing your accent or your voice. You want to stay relatable and make it easy for the audience to understand the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of a story. Finally, maintain eye contact with the camera.
In essence, don’t squelch your natural self but let it come through in your presentation.
Emphasizing Accuracy and Integrity
Your credibility depends on your being accurate and acting with integrity. Transparency is rule #1 here. Verify the facts of your reporting by using first-hand and multiple sources that can corroborate. Demonstrate your core values by staying fair and respectful. And own up to any mistakes you make.
Insisting on Objectivity
Be aware of your biases and attempt to mitigate them. Ask the hard questions with tact and empathy and avoid being confrontational. Always present multiple sides to reveal the truth.
Achieving Authenticity As a Broadcast Journalist
In a nutshell, establishing and maintaining authenticity as a broadcast journalist starts with knowing what you stand for and how to express it in an ethical way. It means you’re engaged with the audience’s concerns and that you’re fully present in interviews and live segments. You embrace your imperfections while upholding accuracy and transparency.
And last, but certainly not least, you strive to speak the truth. You research and prepare so you can better understand your community and build credibility within it. After all, solid facts allow you to deliver stories with confidence and make a real connection.
Get Help from a Top TV News Talent Agent
If you’re struggling with how to establish authenticity as a broadcast journalist, you’d be wise to seek advice from a TV news talent agent who’s helped countless others to find their voices.
Mort Meisner is that agent.
So contact Mort today. He’ll advise you on best practices to demonstrate your true self and experience real connection with your audience.
