Saturday 23 January 2010

What Makes A Good Reporter?


Marc Sallis gives abnormally sensible advice for a self-proclaimed rocker!

The 32-year-old Journalism Graduate is the Editor, Director and co-founder of Artrocker Magazine and believes good reporting is the use of ‘correct facts’, ‘experience’ and a good portfolio. Throw in a bit of personality and you are away!

Sallis says ‘Experience is the key to success… it’s even more important than a qualification’. Although, he does appreciate that a degree can help break into the business particularly alongside NCTJ recognised qualifications.

After graduating from Bournemouth University, his wishes to be a journalist had diminished. But with a natural talent for writing and a 2:2, he started at a ‘small business-to-business publication’ for £12,000 a year.

Ending up as Editor of two magazines wasn’t enough for Sallis. “I hated it. I was the youngest person in the industry by about 10-15 years, but it felt like about 30!” Working for a series of publications, he travelled to the USA and Europe, tasting fine wines and sleeping in grand hotels for the title of Deputy Editor.

Artrocker started online and after consulting the creators of the e-cast, Sallis became co-founder of the magazine. “I have learnt EVERYTHING I need to know… in the 5 years since the launch.”

Sallis is a fan of experience, hard work and dedication. “Each job has been like… putting a Russian Doll back together, leading to bigger and better opportunities.”

A willingness to do a journalism-related course and a decent portfolio is what it takes. This is evident in Sallis’ route to success.

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