6.2 Building trust and maintaining relationships

Building trust with sources is crucial for investigative reporters. It's about more than just getting information—it's about cultivating relationships that stand the test of time and pressure.

Effective communication, transparency, and respect are key. Reporters must master active listening, follow-up, and confidentiality to create an environment where sources feel safe and valued. These skills form the foundation of successful investigative journalism.

Effective Communication Techniques

Active Listening and Follow-up

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• Active listening involves fully concentrating on the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully
• Maintain eye contact and use non-verbal cues (nodding, leaning in) to show engagement
• Paraphrase key points to ensure understanding and demonstrate attentiveness
• Ask clarifying questions to gain deeper insights and show genuine interest
• Follow-up communication reinforces the relationship and demonstrates commitment
• Send thank-you notes or emails after meetings to express appreciation
• Provide updates on how the information was used or the progress of the story
• Schedule regular check-ins to maintain ongoing dialogue and build rapport

Transparency and Mutual Respect

• Transparency builds trust by being open about intentions, processes, and potential outcomes
• Clearly explain the purpose of the interview and how the information will be used
• Discuss potential risks or implications of the source's participation
• Be honest about deadlines, publication dates, and editorial processes
• Mutual respect forms the foundation of a strong reporter-source relationship
• Acknowledge the source's expertise and value their time and contributions
• Respect boundaries and honor agreed-upon conditions (anonymity, off-the-record status)
• Demonstrate professional behavior and ethical conduct at all times
• Address concerns or conflicts promptly and respectfully to maintain trust

Maintaining Confidentiality

Confidentiality Agreements and Off-the-Record Conversations

• Confidentiality agreements establish clear terms for protecting sensitive information
• Outline specific conditions for using the information provided
• Define what constitutes confidential information and how it will be handled
• Include provisions for accidental disclosure and legal protections
• Off-the-record conversations allow sources to share information without attribution
• Clearly establish ground rules before engaging in off-the-record discussions
• Understand different levels of attribution (on background, deep background)
• Develop a system for securely storing and accessing confidential information
• Use encryption tools and secure communication channels to protect sensitive data

Source Validation and Reliability

• Source validation ensures the credibility and authenticity of information
• Cross-reference information with multiple sources when possible
• Verify the source's credentials, expertise, and access to the information provided
• Consider potential biases or motivations that may influence the source's perspective
• Reliability assessment helps determine the consistency and trustworthiness of sources
• Evaluate the source's track record of providing accurate information
• Consider the source's proximity to the events or information being discussed
• Assess the source's willingness to provide supporting documentation or evidence
• Develop a network of trusted sources to corroborate information and provide context