Thinking Like a Reporter — What Makes News

Understanding how journalists evaluate stories and sources is essential for effective public communication. In this session, participants will gain insight into newsroom logic—what makes a story newsworthy, how reporters assess credibility, and why timing matters. They will leave better prepared to anticipate journalistic questions, pitch stories effectively, and build relationships with the press based on transparency and trust.

Learning Goals

Understand how journalists make decisions about newsworthiness, credibility, timing, and sourcing—and what this means for public-sector communication.
Anticipate and respond to common journalistic questions by applying core newsroom logic to your own messaging and outreach.
Develop strategies to pitch stories and engage with reporters in ways that foster transparency, trust, and stronger long-term press relationships.