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| Candace Kimble |
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Interview |
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| Joseph Johnson is a 43-year-old journalist for a local newspaper in Indianapolis, IN. I interviewed him over the phone, where we spoke of interviewing techniques, oral communication, and writing skills.After my more professional questions, I asked questions to find Mr. Johnsons more personal feelings on journalism. Even though there is more than a 20 years age difference, we both seemed to be thinking on the same level. He gave me a lot of insight, from his years of experience, on journalism. |
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Interviewing someone is much more than a list of antagonizing questions. Speaking clearly is very important.It is important to speak clearly so you point is taken the correct way says Johnson. It is also important to ask questions that are not misleading. It's hard for a journalist to relay a message if the question was misinterpreted.Johnson also stated To listen is to learn. He feels that a journalist should leave an interview with mush more than answers to some questions. I meet a lot of people and I feel everyone I encounter teaches me something new.Johnson and I both agreed on keeping an open mind. It is significant to keep an open mind so the facts are stated. |
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| Imagine how embarrassing it would be to have to continuously repeat yourself. Speak clearly and you will not have that problem. A nice firm tone is greatly appreciated. I'm not saying romance them with your Barry White impression but aside from being a sign of respect, it also shows interest. Johnson says, "Speeches should be colorful and capture the readers attention." feel general conversation should be the same way. During our conversation Johnson informed me, it's okay to ask more questions. I could not agree more with him, it sort of reminds me of the saying "no question is a stupid question," although I could argue with that What's the point?; In oral communication, make sure both parties are understood. |
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| Journalist, do not just throw a bunch of mumbo jumbo onto paper and call it a story. The writing process takes time. As important as it is to state the facts, it must be vivid and full of character. Just as speeches should be colorful, so should works of written composition. A journalist should also have a broad vocabulary. "Using words with flavor keeps readers intrigued" says Johnson. Tasteful vocabulary is pointless unless it is properly punctuated. Punctuation can change the entire meaning of a sentence. Johnson also states " E-mail is also a writing skill. I grew up in what your generation might call the "Stone Age", but computer knowledge is also needed." |
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| His wisdom on interviewing techniques, oral communication, and writing skills are greatly appreciated but I wanted to know more of his personal feelings. When asked if he regretted his career choice, my ears rung with an affirmative "No." I asked him to elaborate on how felt he benefited from being a journalist. He said " I think I have the best job in the world. True, it is hard but I think I am more in tune with reality. And when I asked him he felt the world benefited from journalist he said, "I think a journalist informs the world. Without us many people would be clueless. Some journalists do discredit themselves by some of the fantasies they try to sell. Then there are others that are only trying to be helpful and useful." |
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Johnson defines journalism as "the worlds dictionary, it defines the wonders of the world." And
when asked his definition of a journalist he said, "A journalist is a good guard dog. We can
always find the problem and report back to deliver the scoop. Many people dislike the media but I
think the media has it boundaries and a good journalist knows when not to cross them. I have found
time is another major requirement in journalism. Despite Johnson's questionnaire on his ex
girlfriend, my mother, I found our conversation to be interesting and helpful with my career choice.
Between interviewing Mr. Johnson, worrying that my oral communication sucked
and trying to perfect my writing skills I have came to the conclusion that, a career in journalism is where I
want to spend
my time. |
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Work Cited
Johnson, Joesph. Telephone interview. 7 April 2002. |
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