The National in Conversation: Tips, secrets and lessons from top journalists
'I get scared all the time, that's why I always travel with an eagle feather': Duncan McCue
Some of CBC's most experienced journalists had a lot to say about the challenges of covering community stories and how being scared can be part of the job.
The panel of six was in London, Ont., on Tuesday with chief correspondent Peter Mansbridge moderating the 90-minute conversation.
The questions were diverse, ranging from the impact of technology in the industry to keeping personal bias at bay, as well how to land a job as a reporter.
Here are a few tips, secrets and lessons that stood out:
Only report what you know:
Washington correspondent Paul Hunter summed it up when a question arose about deciding when to go live with a story or when to hold back.
"Only report what you know," Hunter said. "You never go with what you don't know or you will be burned."
Tips for covering indigenous stories:
This question got Cross Country Checkup host Duncan McCue, who is Anishinaabe, talking about his experience telling stories of reconciliation.
His tip is simple: Respect.
Is it easier to be a reporter today?
When senior business reporter Renee Filippone admitted she was too young to have ever used a phone book on the job, she was razzed.
But the comment led to a lot of top-notch advice for anyone starting out in journalism.
Have you ever been scared? How did you get through it?
Chief correspondent Peter Mansbridge asked everyone on the panel this question. Check the clip to hear honest answers about working in war zones, on deadlines and in tough situations.
