How to Be Investigative Journalist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 26, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

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The investigative journalist uncovered a major scandal that had a deep impact on public trust in government. The scandal involved high-ranking officials who had accepted bribes in exchange for political favors. As a result of the journalist's reporting, these officials were held to account and removed from office, and the public was better informed about the corrupt behavior of officials. The journalist's work also encouraged other journalists to pursue investigative stories, resulting in increased accountability for public officials and greater transparency in government.

Steps How to Become

Get a college degree. Most employers require investigative journalists to have a college degree in journalism or a related field. Look for a school that offers courses in investigative reporting and writing.
Gain experience. If youre still in school, look for internships and volunteer opportunities at local newspapers or magazines. This will give you hands-on experience and help you build a network of contacts.
Take a course in data analysis. Investigative journalists often use data to uncover stories. Taking a course in data analysis will help you learn how to interpret and visualize data.
Build your portfolio. As you gain experience, start publishing your work in print or online publications. Keep copies of your work and add them to your portfolio.
Network. Attend journalism conferences and events, and meet other investigative journalists. Exchange tips and advice, and get to know the people in the industry.
Stay up-to-date. Follow the news closely and stay up-to-date with the latest trends in investigative journalism. This will help you identify stories and stay ahead of the competition.
Take initiative. Dont wait around for someone else to give you an assignment. Develop story ideas and take initiative to investigate them yourself.

The rise of investigative journalism is often attributed to the development of technology that has made it easier to uncover and uncover important information. This has enabled journalists to more effectively hold powerful people and entities accountable. As a result, investigative journalists have been able to expose corruption, uncover hidden injustices, and shed light on social issues that would otherwise go unnoticed.

By having access to more sources of information, these journalists are able to critically assess the data and create stories that can make a difference. their work can help bring about meaningful changes in society, such as improved regulations or laws, increased transparency, and greater public awareness.

You may want to check Technology Writer, Multimedia Journalist, and Copy Editor for alternative.

Job Description

Research and analyze news stories, current events, and other topics
Develop story ideas, conduct interviews, and uncover facts
Prepare and write investigative reports for print, broadcast, or online media
Work with editors, producers, and other media professionals to ensure accuracy
Monitor news sources for breaking news stories
Establish contacts with knowledgeable sources to facilitate the reporting process
Verify facts with outside sources and ensure accuracy
Produce content for social media outlets
Utilize data analysis techniques to uncover trends and uncover stories
Keep abreast of new developments in investigative journalism techniques

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent research skills
High degree of accuracy and attention to detail
Excellent writing and communication skills
Ability to think critically and analytically
Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
Ability to work collaboratively with others
Good understanding of ethical journalism standards
Familiarity with investigative techniques such as document review, interviewing, and data analysis
Knowledge of the legal system and related laws
Understanding of the implications of public records access laws
Knowledge of current events and trends in journalism
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Excellent problem-solving skills
Proficient with computer programs such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and other industry-specific software

Investigative journalism is a vital skill for any journalist. It involves the investigation of facts, uncovering the truth, and reporting on important stories. Investigative journalism can help to inform the public and bring about much-needed change in society.

The ability to think critically, research thoroughly, and ask hard questions are all essential for successful investigative journalists. They must also be able to break down complex stories into easily digestible pieces, provide context, and make sure that their reporting is fair and accurate. Investigative journalists must also be able to work within tight deadlines and maintain a high level of integrity in their reporting.

By providing an objective perspective on important issues, investigative journalists can contribute to positive change and greater transparency in society.

Data Journalist, Science Writer, and Sports Anchor are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in investigative journalism?
How have you utilized your skills to uncover the truth?
What techniques do you use when researching a story?
How creative are you in coming up with story angles?
How do you handle difficult sources and challenging situations?
Describe a story you've broken that made an impact.
How do you cultivate and maintain relationships with sources?
What steps do you take to verify facts and information?
How do you handle ethical dilemmas in investigative journalism?
How do you stay motivated when researching complex topics?

Common Tools in Industry

Freedom of Information Requests. A formal request to access public records. (eg: Requesting a copy of a police report)
Data Analysis Software. Allows for the exploration and analysis of large data sets. (eg: IBM SPSS Statistics)
Digital Camera. Takes digital photos to document evidence or events. (eg: Nikon D850)
Surveillance Equipment. Used to monitor or track people or activities. (eg: Hidden cameras)
Investigative Storytelling Software. Helps investigative journalists tell stories through digital media. (eg: Adobe Premiere Pro)
Recording Devices. Used to capture audio or video evidence. (eg: Zoom H1n Handy Recorder)
Social Media Monitoring. Helps monitor and analyze conversations on social media platforms. (eg: Mention)
Online Search Tools. Performs searches across multiple websites or databases. (eg: Google Advanced Image Search)
Collaborative Tools. Allows journalists to work together on investigations. (eg: Slack)
Encryption Software. Keeps confidential documents secure and protected from unauthorized access. (eg: VeraCrypt)

Professional Organizations to Know

Investigative Reporters & Editors (IRE)
International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ)
Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ)
National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ)
Society of American Business Editors and Writers (SABEW)
Online News Association (ONA)
National Press Photographers Association (NPPA)
Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA)
Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA)
National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association (NLGJA)

We also have Freelance Journalist, Video Journalist, and Photojournalist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Journalism. The practice of researching, writing, and reporting news and information to an audience.
News Gathering. The process of researching, collecting, verifying and analyzing facts and information for the purpose of producing news stories.
Investigative Reporting. A type of journalism that involves in-depth research and interviews to uncover facts and uncover stories that may otherwise go unreported.
Source. An individual or organization that provides information to a journalist.
FOIA (Freedom of Information Act). A law that allows U. S. citizens to request access to previously unreleased government documents and records.
Tip Line. An anonymous phone line that allows citizens to pass along tips or leads about stories or issues.
Subpoena. A legal document that orders a witness to appear in court or to produce documents or other evidence.
Whistleblower. An individual who reports illegal or unethical behavior within an organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Investigative Journalist?

An Investigative Journalist is a journalist who specializes in in-depth research, analysis and reporting on a particular topic or issue.

What qualifications do Investigative Journalists need?

Investigative Journalists typically need a college degree in journalism, communications or a related field, as well as specialized training in reporting, research and analysis.

What type of stories do Investigative Journalists cover?

Investigative Journalists often cover stories related to public corruption, corporate malpractice, human rights abuses, and other complex topics.

How do Investigative Journalists conduct their research?

Investigative Journalists often utilize a range of sources such as interviews, public records, court documents, and other archival material to conduct their research.

What are the biggest challenges faced by Investigative Journalists?

Some of the biggest challenges faced by Investigative Journalists include gaining access to reliable sources and navigating complex legal issues when researching sensitive topics.