Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election — which Congress officially certified Monday — has forced journalists to prepare for a hostile environment to conduct their work in over the next four years. The possibility of retaliatory lawsuits, a potential defunding of public media, and physical and digital threats against reporters is leaving newsroom leaders with questions about how to motivate their teams.
The Institute reached out to Elaine Clark, news director for KUER, Utah’s largest NPR affiliate, for tips on facing the challenges ahead:
Recommit to your standards of ethical journalism
When is the last time you read your newsroom’s mission statement? Do you have a document for your team (and for the audience) that transparently defines your ethics? We’re dealing with a lot of difficult questions right now in our industry, but you might be surprised by how many answers are already available to you.
If you don’t have a document like that yet, consider creating one. KUER is currently in the process of updating its Standards of Integrity, and there are great examples from NPR, WUWM, and WOSU.
Be open to criticism and use it to make the work better
It’s really difficult to get criticism from the audience, especially when it comes wrapped in vitriol. But after you’ve stopped to take a deep breath, honestly ask yourself: Is there anything to be learned from the feedback? A critic can be cruel and correct at the same time. It may be a moment to make your work stronger and to connect with a listener. If they’re right, tell them what you’re going to change.
If they’re wrong, explain how you came to your reporting. Rude people are the most surprised when you email them back to thoughtfully engage. If they won’t be good faith partners in conversation though, cut your losses and end the exchange. Remember, it is not acceptable for anyone in the newsroom to be a target of abuse.
Support one another professionally and personally
This is a time for connection. Leaders, be ready to support your newsroom. Bullet-proof your reporting with rigorous fact-checking, and be ready to defend your work. But this connection shouldn’t only be professional. We should exhibit genuine care for our colleagues and the challenges they may be facing.
Meanwhile, everyone on the team can reach outside of the newsroom for support, too. Network with colleagues through some of our great professional organizations like the National Press Club, PMJA, RTDNA, and more. And yes, it helps to find a sympathetic ear, but it also helps to have trusted colleagues who will tell you the truth when necessary.
Tags: Career, Leadership