Transforming a Sports Journalist Into a Social Media Personality
In the past, a sports journalist was just a writer, reporter, investigator, providing statistics and conduct interviews. Today, as news moves faster, the role of a sports journalist is more. The journalist has taken on additional roles of being a curator, self-promoter, prognosticator, in-game commentator, side-line reporter, and sometimes comedian. These roles have transformed the journalist into becoming a social media personality.
In today’s sports world, news breaks fast and spreads faster. The sports journalist must take advantage of the information available and utilize the speed of delivery thru social media platforms. This allows for a sports journalist to break stories, comment on highlights, update statistics, provide injury updates before, during or after a game. The goals of a good sports journalist are interacting with fans by providing insight, engaging in conversation, sharing opinions and making connections with sports fans. Twitter is a great tool for accomplishing this goal.
Twitter provides a great outlet for journalist to post statistics or facts to keep fans updated on their favorite team. The restricted character content allows for quick reading and to post a photo or highlight.
The use of other social media outlets can prove to be useful in providing video and photos with comments to create a following. Instagram is a great platform for a sports journalist to post a reaction or highlight to engage with fans.
Instagram can be used to post videos from a broadcast. It seems as though the role of actor can be added to a sports journalist resume. A unique way of delivering a message to the audience to see the reaction when a question is asked. Be ready to ask the tough questions.
Some ask … Can anyone can be a sports journalist?
If you are studying to be a sports journalist, my advice is to know what questions to ask and be prepared for the element of the unknown. In the sports world, there are twist and turns to watch out for, so watch your back. We all love bloopers but you may not want to end up on the video below.
Obviously, anyone can become sports journalist with the drive and desire to deliver sports news. Be prepared to take on new roles as the age of social media is changing every day. The transformation has just begun as these roles will mold into others along the way. Your audience is more knowledgeable with access to more information to check your work as fact. Being a good sports journalist is a tough task. Asking someone to add on the roles and responsibilities of a social media personality is a daunting task. Good luck!
