Citizen Journalism Vs. Traditional Journalism

I have been following this ongoing debate as to whether free journalistic content on the Internet and real-time amateur photos uploaded from the world's flashpoints will outpace traditional journalism. No, say the traditionalists: our investigative journalists go deep and cover many viewpoints. Wrong, say the citizen journalists: our information is current and we have no profit motive behind it. We are impartial, counter the traditionalists. You are paid by advertisers, so you have to be politically correct, say the rebels. Our personnel risk their lives in the world's hotspots and many of us have died in the line of duty, say the traditionalists. We are in the line of fire, says a rebel, poking his head out of a bombed-out building to snap the latest atrocity on his iPhone and upload it for the world's viewing pleasure (or horror).

I am not sure who is right. Certainly, Internet 2.0 has provided for an instantaneous dialogue between writers and readers and we are not satisfied any longer with just the bare presentation of facts, arguments, propaganda and lies. And the very static "letters to the editor," - that is, the traditionalists' old fashioned attempt to stimulate audience participation - pales under the online world's "like" and "comment" buttons that accompany most e-journal pieces these days. "Going viral" happens faster on the Internet than in traditional media. The fact that most traditionalists have embraced the Internet to issue e-versions of their paper editions means that they don't want to be left behind. To make matters worse for the old guard, the recent telephone bugging scandals of the traditionalists have not endeared them to readers. Traditional content providers are out to sell advertizing - we all know that - so mass appeal is where their interests lie and the citizen journalists are left to cover the niches. Therefore, one could argue, how comprehensive is traditional journalism if it is shaped by a powerful sponsor with vested interests?

Not getting paid for citizen journalism, while this indicates purity of intention, could also include poorly written pieces and content emanating from those with undisguised axes to grind. But we have also heard of "right wing" or "left wing" newspapers in the traditional space. On the other hand, traditionalists are lifers and insist that their journalists are immersed in their subject, and provide accuracy, structure, responsibility and voice, while citizen journalists are scattered in their presentation and may quickly get bored and move onto other pursuits once they have had their fill of saving the world or exposing its underbelly.

I too have dabbled in citizen journalism and like the fact that I do not have to pay obeisance to an uncaring editor who may edit, alter, or reject my submission because it is not to his liking or displeases his sponsors. It has allowed me to view the world and comment on its idiosyncrasies while maintaining a paid career elsewhere. I do not entertain ads on my website or blog for the privilege of being free of interference. I have thus managed to escape the moniker of "jaded journalist" or "corporate lackey."

Want to Be a Writer? These Tips Will Help to Make Your Dream Come True

Last week I met a writer who had one book published. Since his book sells well, and he speaks to groups across the country, he thought about writing a second book. But he didn't take action on this idea. "Writing is too much work," he admitted, "so I just revised my existing book."

This writer speaks the truth. Whether it is a novel, mystery, history, self-help, poetry, children's book, sports book, or another genre, writing is hard work. You also have to deal with submission guidelines, editors, deadlines, and marketing. In short, your work isn't done when your book is done.

Writers also have to deal with comments from readers. During my 35+ years as a writer I have received compliments and thoughtless comments. One man was disappointed when one of my books was released. "I was going to write that," he complained. However, I researched the topic, spent weeks on the outline, spent months on writing, and submitted the manuscript to publishers.

I acted upon my book idea and he did not.

Many people have approached me and said they wanted to write a book. When I ask what they are working on at the moment, however, the answer is always the same -- nothing. I have never met a would-be writer who was working on anything. By definition, writers are supposed to write. If you want your book published, you need to create a body of work.

Volunteering may also help you reach your dream of becoming a writer. You may serve as volunteer editor of your church newsletter, for example, or write articles for the public library newsletter. I wrote a brochure for a local community group and you could do something similar. Over time, your volunteer efforts will become a body of work and prove, without a doubt, that you are a writer.

Community education and college courses may also help you to achieve your dream. Taking courses proves, yet again, that you are serious about becoming a writer. Keep a file or files of everything you write to track your progress. If you don't have a resume, now is the time to create one. List courses, volunteer efforts, and completed manuscripts on your resume.

These tips helped me to achieve my dream of becoming a writer and I hope they help you.

    Write every day. You may write letters, blog postings, short articles, or work on a book outline.
    Find your genre. This may take some time, but keep at it.
    Research publishers in your genre. Never submit a manuscript to a publisher that you have not researched.
    Work on a one-page query letter. Put it away and take it out in a few weeks. Make any revisions you think are necessary.
    Create a resume, including all of your volunteer writing positions.
    Update your resume regularly.
    Keep a file of submissions and rejects. Hopefully, this file will eventually include acceptances.
    Be persistent. If you don't believe in you, others will not either.
    Consider self-publishing. In this sagging economy many writers are going directly to self-publishing and the Kindle or Nook. Before you sign on the dotted line, however, investigate the publisher and read reviews on the Internet.