Sources

Sources: without these, our stories would lack factual grounding, additional human perspective, and varying points of view. Essentially, without sources, our stories would be... well... nothing. 

Sources of information can range from Internet databases, to government reports, to industry experts and CEO's, to people supporting/opposing certain initiatives, to victim's families, and even random people living in a specific neighborhood. 

Each source you incorporate into a story brings an additional layer to the mix, and therefore, a better understanding for your viewers. 

Sometimes, sources come from unexpected places. Other times, you're just simply in the right place at the right time, and the source you talk to gives you the inside scoop that no one else has. 

The key is to always keep your eyes and ears open. In addition to the list below, check out this list of tips from the Poynter institute. They talk about how to maintain good, but professional relationships with sources, how to make small talk, and distinguish between "on" and "off" the record. 

1. Patience
Sometimes, your source isn't going to answer right away, or they may take awhile to get back to you. Be patient, and have your phone on you, (and charged) at all times. 

2. Persistence
Don't give up. Often times, your "perfect" source of information isn't going to answer their phone or email, or they'll be out of the office until Monday. Other times, finding random "Man-On-The-Street" interviews, (often referred to as MOS's), isn't easy. People reject you because they're busy, the topic is controversial, or they simply don't have an opinion. You have to keep going, and you have to keep pursuing sources. 

3. Let Your Sources Explain Things To You
Even though I always do my research before a story, I think it's important to start the interview off by having your source explain the topic to you, as if they were explaining it to someone who had no prior knowledge with the topic. Then, you can ask more in-depth questions based on your research as the interview goes on. By doing this, you're going to be able to explain the topic better to your audience. 

4. Foster Good Relationships With Your Sources
This doesn't mean you have to be unprofessional or biased, it just means you utilize the contacts you have. For example, you're listening to the police scanner, and hear about a possible fatality on a nearby highway. 

If you have a reliable contact with the Highway Patrol, this is the perfect time to call them. That being said, it's very important to respect your sources and treat them with courtesy. They are taking time out of their day to help you do your job, so you should be very thankful and appreciative of the help they are giving you. 

5. Become Best Friends With the Secretary/Communications Director
When a source isn't getting back to you, it's easy to get frustrated or distraught. But the bottom line is to never take these feelings out on the secretary. These people are often the ones who can put you in contact with the right people, and hold a lot of information. Be nice to them, (and everyone), always.

6. Keep A Source List
This is a great way to keep your sources organized. It can be as simple as a word document with phone numbers and emails, or you could create an in-depth Excel document with their name, official job title, etc. 

7. Send Your Story Link To Your Sources
Most times, your sources are going to want to see the story they're a part of. Emailing them a link to the online story is a great way to spread the word about your station as well. 

8. As Your Sources for More Sources
Even if you can't do an on-camera interview with the person you want, ask them to recommend others you could talk to.