Para descubrir la verdad hay que ir a la calle

Uncovering the truth often requires a borderless approach. As journalists, we are challenged to go out into the streets, to follow the trail of a story where it happens, to really get our hands on the essence of the truth.

How do you build your own agenda in journalism?

It all starts with a passion for a particular subject. Do you have something that keeps you awake at night and constantly questioning during the day? Then that's the vein you need to explore.

Going out on the street, looking for contacts, testimonies, conflicting or clashing realities, that's what is called reporting. Date, place, why, when, who is involved - these are the elements you need to discover to properly answer the basic questions of any news event.

What are the first steps to reporting on the street?

Always start with planning. Imagine the possible scenarios, the possible reactions, and how you will approach them. Reporting terrains can vary greatly. Covering the final of a tournament in a soccer stadium is not the same as reporting on violence inside maximum security prisons.

Preparation is crucial. This involves reading and researching about the topic, having or weaving contacts with other people who have had contact with that reality and collecting data through phone calls, cross-checking information via e-mail, or face-to-face meetings.

How to act during reporting?

It is essential that we keep our prejudices in our pocket. Going into a place knowing what to expect can interfere with our objectivity as we build the story. Instead, we should act as if we know nothing and allow the evidence uncovered to help us formulate our narrative.

In addition, it is critical to sharpen our eyes and verify information. Journalists are not just ears. We are also the eyes of our audience and, as such, we must try to capture as much detail as possible.

What is the role of sensitivity in reporting?

Sensitivity is a complex mix of curiosity, empathy and the desire to discover the truth. It is essential to set aside our preconceptions and allow reality to present its own version. We all have biases and prejudices, but it is necessary to keep them at bay during reporting in order to present truthful and unbiased narratives.

Why is it important to take notes during reporting?

Taking notes in the heat of the moment will allow you to convey as accurately as possible what you found. Collect as much testimony as you can and never postpone an interview. Information you can discard is easier to handle than information you were unable to collect.

Finally, remember that reporting is a complex mix of preparation, sensitivity and real-time data collection. With these elements, you can build a rich and engaging story that not only captures the facts, but also conveys the essence of what is happening.