AuntyB

Dear Journalism Newbies Continuation;

Hosting interview sessions is one of the things I do effortlessly as a broadcast journalist. Regardless of the time frame, I always show up prepared and bring my A-game.

Over time, I’ve discovered a few key things that elevate a great interview:

1. Research is non-negotiable.Study to show yourself approved.” No matter how limited the time, never show up empty-handed. Do your homework, dig deep into both the topic of discussion and the profile of your guest.

2. Build rapport.
Make your interviewee feel at ease. A warm smile, steady eye contact, and a timely nod can go a long way in creating a comfortable atmosphere.
Listen attentively.
Don't just hear, listen. This helps you connect more deeply and ask thoughtful follow-up questions. Trust me this works magic.

4. Avoid closed-ended questions.
Skip the "yes" or "no" type. Go for open-ended questions that invite stories, opinions, and rich insights.

5. Time management is key;
Especially when time isn’t on your side, knowing how to manage it effectively is everything.

These little things? They make a BIG difference.

Dear Journalism Newbies Continuation

Learn Aggressively!" A Turning Point in My Journey

At the early stage of my career, I told my brother that where I was at the time afforded me the opportunity to learn if not 100%, then at least 85% of what I needed to know about media and journalism.

And then, he said something that struck a deep chord. Quoting him verbatim: “Then you need to learn aggressively.”

Oh, those words! They hit me hard and clear. In that moment, I knew I had to give it everything. I needed to stretch myself and leave my comfort zone.

Before that conversation, I had boxed myself into doing just one thing. I wasn’t particularly eager about expanding my knowledge or trying new things. All I wanted was to stick to what I was already doing hosting the daily Kiddies Timeout with AuntyB on radio. I was comfortable doing that one thing, and honestly, I felt content.

But my brother’s words came at just the right time. They ignited a shift.

So, I gave myself a target. Within two months of that talk, I had learned program production and started undergoing training for newscasting. And I haven’t looked back since

Now here’s what I’ve come to learn:

While it’s absolutely okay to find your niche and own it, I sincerely believe this should not happen too early especially when you're just starting out. Don’t box yourself in unnecessarily. Don’t limit yourself when there’s so much more to learn and explore.

Dear Journalism Newbies,
Please, learn all you can now that you can. I often say, “The knowledge you glean is yours for life no one can take it from you.” The more you know and are good at, the more valuable you become.