 |
| Amy Gahran |
| Interviewing bloggers is a two-way street. Get used to it. |
Almost daily I get interview requests from mainstream media outlets and independent bloggers. That’s fine, I’m happy to share what I know.
But — at least for me — it works both ways.
Just to be clear: If you want to interview me, my terms are that our discussion is on the record for you as well as for me. In other words, I get to blog it, from my perspective.
I may be willing to coordinate with you on timing so we’re not “scooping” each other, but I won’t have a conversation with you where you get to publish what I say, but not vice versa. Media doesn’t work that way anymore.
In my experience, most bloggers are fine with this. Also, about half the mainstream news orgs who request interviews with me also are fine with it.
The other half of mainstream journalists either claim that their corporate policy doesn’t allow such a level playing field, or they’re incensed and indignant that I’d presume to put them on the record. A few mainstream journalists also say “OK if you submit your post to me for prior approval.” Ha. Like any respectable news organization would agree to those terms.
Clear enough? Cool. Anyone else have similar issues or relevant perspectives? Please comment below.
If you liked my post, feel free to subscribe to my rss feeds
BlogoSquare
2 Comments so far (Add 1 more)