The Evolving Journalist: Skills for Success in the Age of AI
The media landscape is undergoing a seismic shift. For the first time in modern history, the very process of journalism – its production mode – is being fundamentally altered by the rise of generative artificial intelligence. This isn’t merely about automating tasks; it’s about redefining what it means to be a journalist in the 21st century.
As AI takes on increasingly sophisticated roles in drafting, summarizing, verifying, and packaging news, the question becomes: what skills will truly differentiate human journalists and ensure their continued relevance? What qualities will be prized in a newsroom where machines can handle routine tasks with speed and efficiency?
Echoes of the Past: Defining Journalistic Qualities
Insights into the core attributes of a successful journalist aren’t new. Alan Rusbridger, former editor-in-chief of The Guardian and chair of the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism, revisited a 1969 assessment by Sunday Times foreign correspondent Nick Tomalin in his 2020 book, “News and How to Use It.” Tomalin’s list, surprisingly candid, prioritized “rat-like cunning, a plausible manner, and a little literary ability.”
“Rat-like cunning,” Tomalin explained, was essential for uncovering and publishing information others wished to keep hidden. A “plausible manner” aided in both survival and the engaging presentation of stories. He added further, less critical traits: total recall, a resilient constitution, a balance of idealism and professionalism, a touch of paranoia, adeptness with logistics, a willingness to borrow ideas, and the fortitude to withstand a chaotic lifestyle.
Tomalin’s life tragically underscored the risks inherent in the profession; he was killed four years later by a Syrian missile while reporting from the Golan Heights.
The Hard-Nosed Approach: Lessons from Steve Dunleavy
A contrasting perspective emerges from “Paper of Wreckage” (2024), Susan Mulcahy and Frank DiGiacomo’s history of the New York Post. The book details the methods of Steve Dunleavy, a relentless tabloid reporter known for his aggressive style. Reporter Richard Esposito described Dunleavy’s approach as knowing “how to get a picture from a widow, or how to get a mother whose son might have killed somebody to get you into her apartment.”
Dunleavy emphasized the importance of presentation, advising reporters to “always wear a shirt, tie, and jacket. Make people feel you’re respecting them.” He also understood the power of empathy, suggesting bringing flowers and expressing condolences even when pursuing difficult stories. Eric Fentman, a colleague, summarized Dunleavy’s ethos: “His strength as a journalist was his willingness to do anything for a story. And his weakness was his willingness to do anything for a story.”
The Digital Scavenger: Skills for the Online Age
Adrian Addison’s “Mail Men: The Unauthorized Story of the Daily Mail” (2017) offers a third viewpoint, focusing on the skills valued at MailOnline. Addison describes these journalists as “part scavenger, part subeditor and headline writer, part reporter and picture taster, part ad man,” proficient in Photoshop, video editing, and, crucially, “to be able to spot a Kardashian in a crowd.”
These varying lists reflect the diverse priorities of different publications – from broadsheet prestige to tabloid sensationalism, print tradition to digital immediacy. However, all seem somewhat limited in the face of the transformative power of generative AI.
AI’s Impact: A Paradigm Shift in Journalism
Generative AI represents a fundamental shift in the production of news. For roughly two centuries, journalism has been defined by the human capacity to gather, analyze, and disseminate information. Now, AI systems can perform many of these tasks – drafting articles, summarizing reports, monitoring events, verifying facts, and packaging content – albeit imperfectly. This automation necessitates a reevaluation of the skills that will define journalistic success in the future.
At the recent WAN-IFRA Newsroom Summit in Copenhagen, industry leaders discussed how journalists can thrive amidst this technological upheaval. While curiosity was frequently cited as a key trait, Gard Steiro, Editor-in-Chief and CEO of VG (Verdens Gang), Norway, argued that curiosity alone is insufficient. He emphasized the importance of knowledge, experience, and established industry connections.
The discussion also addressed the potential challenges for veteran journalists who may be less comfortable with AI tools. Dmitry Shishkin, Strategic Editorial Advisor at Ringier Media, Switzerland, stressed that adaptability and flexibility are paramount. Journalists must embrace change and be willing to take on new responsibilities, rather than adhering rigidly to traditional job descriptions. “Flexibility,” he asserted, “is essential.” VG employs trial periods for new hires to assess their adaptability.
Phoebe Connelly, MSc, formerly Senior Editor for AI Strategy and Innovation at The Washington Post, highlighted the need for journalists to expand their information-gathering methods. She noted that many journalists rely on a limited range of familiar sources and argued that newsrooms must equip them with the skills to discover new information and perspectives. Connelly also emphasized the importance of understanding audience preferences and tailoring content to different platforms – a constantly evolving challenge.
Ultimately, AI is forcing the industry to clarify what uniquely human skills remain invaluable: curiosity, critical judgment, adaptability, and creativity. These are qualities that machines, for the foreseeable future, cannot replicate.
What new ethical considerations will arise as AI-generated content becomes more prevalent? And how can news organizations ensure transparency and maintain public trust in an era of automated journalism?
Frequently Asked Questions About Journalism and AI
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What skills are most important for journalists in the age of AI?
Adaptability, critical thinking, and the ability to verify information are crucial. While AI can automate many tasks, it cannot replace human judgment and ethical considerations.
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How can journalists prepare for the changes brought about by AI?
Embrace lifelong learning, experiment with AI tools, and focus on developing skills that complement AI’s capabilities, such as investigative reporting and in-depth analysis.
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Will AI replace journalists entirely?
It’s unlikely. While AI will automate some tasks, the need for human journalists to provide context, analysis, and ethical oversight will remain strong.
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What role does experience play in navigating the AI-driven changes in journalism?
Experience provides valuable context and judgment, but adaptability is equally important. Journalists of all ages must be willing to learn and embrace new technologies.
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How can newsrooms foster a culture of adaptability among their journalists?
Encourage experimentation, provide training opportunities, and create a supportive environment where journalists feel comfortable taking risks and learning from their mistakes.
Stay informed and engaged with the evolving world of journalism. Share this article with your network and join the conversation in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the impact of AI on journalism and should not be considered professional advice.
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