Realtime Reporter Onboarding Checklist

Realtime Reporter Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Realtime Reporter starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Journalism onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Realtime Reporter, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Realtime Reporter onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Realtime Reporter Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The new Realtime Reporter should be provided with a comprehensive overview of the company’s policies and procedures. This includes familiarizing them with the code of conduct, dress code, attendance policy, and any other relevant guidelines. The Human Resources department is responsible for conducting this task, ensuring that the reporter understands and adheres to the company’s expectations.

2. Introduction to the newsroom: The new Realtime Reporter should be introduced to the newsroom environment, including the layout, different departments, and key personnel. This task is typically performed by a senior editor or a designated mentor who will guide the reporter through the newsroom, introducing them to colleagues and explaining the roles and responsibilities of each department.

3. Familiarization with reporting tools and software: As a Realtime Reporter, it is crucial to be proficient in using various reporting tools and software. The new reporter should receive training on the specific tools and software used by the company, such as transcription software, live streaming platforms, and content management systems. This training is usually conducted by the IT department or a designated technology specialist.

4. Understanding the editorial process: The Realtime Reporter should be provided with a detailed understanding of the editorial process within the company. This includes learning about story assignments, deadlines, editorial meetings, and the workflow from gathering information to publishing or broadcasting. The reporter’s direct supervisor or an experienced editor should guide them through this process, ensuring they understand the expectations and timelines.

5. Training on journalistic ethics and standards: Journalism is built on a foundation of ethics and standards. The new Realtime Reporter should receive training on journalistic principles, including accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and avoiding conflicts of interest. This training is typically conducted by the company’s editorial team or a designated ethics officer.

6. Shadowing experienced reporters: To gain practical experience and learn the ropes of the job, the new Realtime Reporter should have the opportunity to shadow experienced reporters. This allows them to observe and learn from professionals in the field, understand their reporting techniques, and gain insights into effective storytelling. The responsibility for arranging shadowing opportunities lies with the reporter’s direct supervisor or a designated mentor.

7. Introduction to company sources and contacts: Building a network of reliable sources is crucial for a Realtime Reporter. The new reporter should be introduced to key sources and contacts within the industry, both within the company and externally. This task is typically performed by the reporter’s direct supervisor or an experienced journalist who can provide guidance on cultivating relationships with sources.

8. Training on live reporting and broadcasting: Realtime Reporters often engage in live reporting and broadcasting, whether on television, radio, or online platforms. The new reporter should receive training on live reporting techniques, including on-camera presence, voice modulation, and handling unexpected situations. This training is usually conducted by experienced broadcast journalists or trainers specializing in live reporting.

9. Introduction to legal considerations: Journalism involves legal considerations, such as libel, defamation, and privacy laws. The new Realtime Reporter should receive training on these legal aspects to ensure they understand the potential risks and how to navigate them. This training is typically conducted by the company’s legal department or a designated legal advisor.

10. Ongoing professional development opportunities: To excel in their role, Realtime Reporters should have access to ongoing professional development opportunities. The company should provide resources for training, workshops, conferences, and industry events that can enhance the reporter’s skills and knowledge. The responsibility for identifying and facilitating these opportunities lies with the reporter’s direct supervisor or the company’s training and development department

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Realtime Reporter checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Realtime Reporter up to speed and working well in your Journalism team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.