5.2 Building Rapport with Sources

Building trust with sources is crucial for journalists. It requires clear communication, respect for boundaries, and genuine interest in their expertise. Establishing credibility early on sets the foundation for productive relationships.

Active listening and professional handling of sensitive topics are key skills. By creating a safe space for open dialogue and navigating difficult conversations with care, journalists can foster deeper connections and gather more meaningful information.

Establishing and Maintaining Source Relationships

Trust and credibility with sources

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Top images from around the web for Trust and credibility with sources

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  Fake News - Fake News and Fact Checking - LibGuides at Gustavus Adolphus College View original

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  Evaluating Sources for Credibility Lesson Plan with PowerPoint and Activities View original

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  The SIFT Method – Introduction to College Research View original

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  Fake News - Fake News and Fact Checking - LibGuides at Gustavus Adolphus College View original

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• Introduce yourself and role clearly explaining story purpose and intentions transparently
• Demonstrate subject knowledge through prior research and genuine interest in source's expertise
• Respect source's time being punctual for meetings and offering scheduling flexibility
• Use appropriate communication channels (email, phone, in-person) based on source comfort
• Provide credentials and references if requested
• Follow through on commitments made to sources building reliability

Active listening for open sharing

• Practice attentive body language maintaining eye contact and nodding to show understanding
• Use verbal affirmations ("I see," "Mm-hmm," "Go on") encouraging continued dialogue
• Ask open-ended questions prompting elaboration on key points
• Reflect and paraphrase summarizing heard information to ensure accurate comprehension
• Acknowledge emotions recognizing and validating source's feelings
• Allow silences and pauses giving source time to think and respond thoughtfully
• Avoid interrupting or finishing sentences respecting source's voice
• Show genuine curiosity about experiences fostering deeper connections

Navigating sensitive topics professionally

• Prepare for difficult conversations researching trauma-informed interviewing techniques
• Approach sensitive subjects gradually starting with less emotionally charged topics
• Use appropriate language and tone avoiding judgmental or sensationalistic terms
• Offer breaks or pauses when needed respecting emotional boundaries
• Respect boundaries and consent allowing sources to decline answering specific questions
• Provide resources for support (counseling services contact information)
• Maintain composure and objectivity separating personal emotions from professional duties
• Follow up after intense interviews checking on source's well-being

Boundaries and expectations in sourcing

• Define professional relationship explaining journalist-source dynamic
• Set clear communication guidelines establishing preferred contact methods and times
• Discuss attribution and confidentiality clarifying on-the-record vs. off-the-record information
• Be honest about story scope and potential impact avoiding promises about coverage or outcomes
• Maintain professional distance avoiding personal involvement with sources
• Communicate deadlines and timelines informing sources about publication process
• Address potential conflicts of interest disclosing relevant personal or professional connections
• Respect privacy and personal space obtaining permission before recording or photographing
• Provide quote review opportunities explaining fact-checking process