Persistence

Definition

Persistence refers to the steadfastness and determination to continue pursuing a goal despite challenges and setbacks. In the realm of investigative reporting, it is a critical quality that enables reporters to dig deeper, follow leads, and uncover the truth, often against significant obstacles. This unwavering commitment is essential for successful investigations, as it helps reporters remain focused and resilient when faced with resistance or adversity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Successful investigative reporters often need persistence to obtain information that may be guarded or hard to access, requiring repeated attempts and strategic approaches.
2. Persistence helps reporters build relationships with sources, as trust often takes time and multiple interactions to develop.
3. Many groundbreaking investigations have been the result of persistent efforts over long periods, sometimes spanning months or even years.
4. Challenges such as legal barriers, hostile interviewees, or bureaucratic red tape can test a reporter's persistence, but overcoming these hurdles is crucial for uncovering significant stories.
5. Persistence is not just about relentless pursuit; it also involves knowing when to pivot strategies or adjust approaches while keeping the end goal in sight.

Review Questions

• How does persistence contribute to the effectiveness of investigative reporting?
  • Persistence is vital for investigative reporting because it allows reporters to push through obstacles that might deter others. Reporters often face challenges such as uncooperative sources, lack of access to documents, and other barriers. By maintaining their commitment to uncovering the truth, persistent reporters are more likely to gather crucial evidence and obtain interviews that could lead to significant findings.
• In what ways can a lack of persistence negatively impact an investigation?
  • A lack of persistence can lead to incomplete investigations, missed opportunities for crucial information, and ultimately weaker stories. When reporters give up too soon or don't follow up diligently on leads, they risk leaving gaps in their coverage. This can result in superficial reporting that fails to reveal important truths and diminishes the overall impact of their work.
• Evaluate the role of persistence in relation to ethical journalism and accountability in investigative reporting.
  • Persistence plays a dual role in enhancing ethical journalism and promoting accountability within investigative reporting. On one hand, it allows journalists to dig deeper into stories that reveal wrongdoing or corruption, holding powerful individuals accountable. On the other hand, ethical persistence means balancing determination with responsible reporting practices. Journalists must remain committed but also sensitive to their sources' rights and well-being, ensuring that their relentless pursuit does not compromise ethical standards.

Related terms

Tenacity: The quality of being able to grip something firmly or the determination to continue doing something despite difficulties.

Diligence: Careful and persistent effort put into tasks, often essential in thorough investigative work.

Follow-up: The act of pursuing additional information or checking in on previous contacts to ensure comprehensive coverage of a story.