3G (Third Generation) is the latest wireless technology. It is also known as UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), an improvement over 2G (Second Generation) providing wireless access to the data and information to the users from any where and anytime. It is the latest mobile technology and in fact it is describe by Cellular (2004) as being a generic name for the host of mobile technologies.
3G cellular phones were first launched in Japan in October 2001. This 3G phone was designed so users would be able to surf the Internet, view pictures of the people they are talking to, watch movies and listen to music on their handsets .
What are the benefits of 3G?
You can perform all those functions that you perform at present with your mobile devices but at much higher speed than before. It provides you with faster connectivity, faster internet access, and music entertainment with improved quality. The benefits are immense. You can avail the benefits of video calling. You can call you friend and have a video call facility. The clarity is better and the facility can be enjoyed as long as both of you are using the 3G technology.
With 3G technology it is possible to access any site on the Internet by using your phone as a modem for your computer or laptop and mail the important documents. Downloading games and songs is much faster with this technology. You can download your favorite games into your mobile and start playing. You can also download the music videos or simply the songs. The technology enable for much faster download. Hence it will take only few minutes to download movie clips or albums.
You can use your favourite search engines to find information on news headlines, get information about the evening weather so that you can plan your party. You can find out the latest baseball score and any latest news about your favorite sport. The 3G phones with their advanced feature will also enable you to watch exciting highlights of your favorite sport. With the increased speed and improved quality of the services provided in the 3G phones, you can view the multimedia data applications like movie clips and the music videos with more clear picture than with the 2.5G technology mobiles.
The 3G technology provide you with the data transmission speed of up to 2Mbps when you are using the phone on stationary mode. It also provides significantly faster data transfer rates of connectivity and increased networking and most importantly the resistance to noise.
The technology has in fact increased the bit rate thus enabling the service providers to provide high speed internet facilities, increased call volumes and host of the multimedia applications to their customers. All these services can be provided to the customers on the basis of the amount of data they transmit and not on the time for which they use the service thus making the services cheaper for us.
A great deal of potential exists for new applications in the future as 3G packet based networks will allow users to be on line all the time. The capabilities of wireless networks in terms of bandwidth must still, however, be improved upon (3GNewsroom.com, n.d.).
3G is an exciting new technology that is being incorporated into mobile devices across the globe. Users are now able to make person-to-person calls, download data and do a variety of other tasks they never imagined possible all via their 3G cell phones.
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JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Friday, July 30, 2010
Google search working again in China
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Google users in China were temporary blocked from accessing the search engine, the company said Thursday, but the site was was once again working a few hours later.
A notice posted on Google's site had said all services other than Gmail were partially or fully blocked in mainland China. No further details were posted.
But later Thursday evening, a Google spokeswoman said in an e-mailed statement to CNNMoney.com that the issue had been resolved.
"Because of the way we measure accessibility in China, it's possible that our machines could overestimate the level of blockage. That seems to be what happened ... when there was a relatively small blockage. It appears now that users in China are accessing our properties normally," the spokeswoman said.
Google (GOOG, Fortune 500) and China have been at odds for months over censorship issues in the country. In January, Google said it was considering leaving China.
Two months later, Google moved its servers out of mainland China to Hong Kong and said it would stop censoring its search results in the country. Google redirected its Chinese users from google.cn to its Hong Kong site, google.com.hk, which offers uncensored search results.
Because Google was not hosting its search operations within mainland China, the company was not forced to acquiesce to China's censorship laws. As such, it was up to the Chinese government to block access to the results it deemed objectionable.
But earlier this month, Google said it had renewed its license with the Chinese government and would be allowed to continue operating in the country -- though the search giant did not make any concessions regarding censorship.
Google shares were down 1% in after-hours trading.
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A notice posted on Google's site had said all services other than Gmail were partially or fully blocked in mainland China. No further details were posted.
"Because of the way we measure accessibility in China, it's possible that our machines could overestimate the level of blockage. That seems to be what happened ... when there was a relatively small blockage. It appears now that users in China are accessing our properties normally," the spokeswoman said.
Google (GOOG, Fortune 500) and China have been at odds for months over censorship issues in the country. In January, Google said it was considering leaving China.
Two months later, Google moved its servers out of mainland China to Hong Kong and said it would stop censoring its search results in the country. Google redirected its Chinese users from google.cn to its Hong Kong site, google.com.hk, which offers uncensored search results.
Because Google was not hosting its search operations within mainland China, the company was not forced to acquiesce to China's censorship laws. As such, it was up to the Chinese government to block access to the results it deemed objectionable.
But earlier this month, Google said it had renewed its license with the Chinese government and would be allowed to continue operating in the country -- though the search giant did not make any concessions regarding censorship.
Google shares were down 1% in after-hours trading.
See Media & Advertising Vacancies
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Listening for Aliens: What Would E.T. Do?
By Michael D. Lemonick
What would E.T. do? It's an improbable question, but it's one Gregory Benford has been thinking about a lot lately. That's not entirely surprising, since Benford is an award-winning science-fiction writer. In this case, though, he's speaking in his capacity as a professor of physics at the University of California at Irvine. Along with his twin brother, James, and James' son Dominic, Benford has been rethinking the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, or SETI, now celebrating its 50th year.
The SETI project is, as its name suggests, a continuous hunt for sentient, otherworldly life. It involves pointing a radio receiver at a candidate star (one that is sunlike and not too far away) and listening for some sort of steady signal — an alien radio broadcast, on all the time. Like Jodie Foster in the movie Contact (vaguely like that, anyway), SETI searchers would tune in for a while, and if they got nothing, they'd move on. "We've now looked out to about 500 light-years or so," says Gregory Benford, "and found no such transmissions." (See the top 10 NASA flubs.)
The reason, the Benford clan claims in a set of papers in the journal Astrobiology, is that SETI scientists have been listening for the wrong thing. A continuous broadcast powerful enough to reach across interstellar space takes a huge amount of energy. The oft-repeated claim that our own TV and radio broadcasts could be leaking out and giving us away to alien listeners is a popular idea, but a highly dubious one. Yes, I Love Lucy shows have now traveled 50 light-years into space, but the transmissions are so incredibly weak that it doesn't matter. (Comment on this story.)
Based on an exhaustive analysis, the Benfords have concluded that it would be far more cost-effective for aliens who wanted to be detected to send out short, powerful bursts every so often to signal their presence. "You send out a few pulses, then move on and come back every once and a while," Benford says. "That makes sense if aliens don't really know we're here." These so-called "Benford beacons" (a nickname bestowed by others in the community who are familiar with the idea) wouldn't necessarily show up when earthbound scientists happened to be listening, so it would be easy to miss them.
The solution, say the Benfords, is to monitor many stars continuously, and the direction to look is the center of the Milky Way, for three reasons. First, there are simply more stars there, where the galaxy gets more and more crowded. Second, those stars tend to be older, meaning civilizations would have a head start on developing technology. Third, a smart ET — and we're assuming they'd be smart — would point a beacon out along the precise radius of the galaxy, since such a clean and obvious direction is where an equally smart species (us, for instance) would aim its listening devices. (See pictures of Earth from space.)
Unfortunately, just as continuous broadcasting takes up resources, so does continuous listening. "People assume that SETI searches are going on all the time," says Benford, "but if you add up the total observing time over last half century, it's a total of only a few months."
That's started to change with the debut of the Allen Telescope Array in California, run by the SETI Institute and devoted full-time to ET hunting, as opposed to all of the SETI work performed to date, which had to be scrounged from whatever telescopes were available. But for much broader coverage, the Benfords also want to enlist the SETI League, an association of amateurs who use small radio dishes — including satellite-TV receivers — to listen to the heavens. If they're right about what ET would do, so many people listening to so rich a region of the sky might even pick up the telltale signal of intelligent life on a distant world within a few years. Even the SETI folks agree that's possible — and don't seem to mind being told that they've been going about things the wrong way.
"They make a good point that the aliens would use beacons, not continuous beams," says Seth Shostak, an astronomer at the SETI Institute. "The idea isn't new — I think I have several papers published in the last five or more years with similar suggestions. But hey, these guys have worked out beacon parameters, and that's a good thing to do." (See a special report on the 40th anniversary of the moon landing.)
Of course, all the new work may be unnecessary, since it's just possible we've spotted ET already. Several times over the past 50 years, searchers have picked up radio signals that flashed once or twice, then disappeared. The best known of these is called the "Wow" signal, because that's what an astronomer who picked it up wrote on a printout from a radio telescope at Ohio State University in the 1970s. SETI searchers went back to the star in question immediately, but heard nothing. It may be well be, suggests Benford, that we detected extraterrestrials more than three decades ago — and because we weren't taking into account what E.T. would do, failed to confirm it.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
What would E.T. do? It's an improbable question, but it's one Gregory Benford has been thinking about a lot lately. That's not entirely surprising, since Benford is an award-winning science-fiction writer. In this case, though, he's speaking in his capacity as a professor of physics at the University of California at Irvine. Along with his twin brother, James, and James' son Dominic, Benford has been rethinking the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, or SETI, now celebrating its 50th year.
The SETI project is, as its name suggests, a continuous hunt for sentient, otherworldly life. It involves pointing a radio receiver at a candidate star (one that is sunlike and not too far away) and listening for some sort of steady signal — an alien radio broadcast, on all the time. Like Jodie Foster in the movie Contact (vaguely like that, anyway), SETI searchers would tune in for a while, and if they got nothing, they'd move on. "We've now looked out to about 500 light-years or so," says Gregory Benford, "and found no such transmissions." (See the top 10 NASA flubs.)
The reason, the Benford clan claims in a set of papers in the journal Astrobiology, is that SETI scientists have been listening for the wrong thing. A continuous broadcast powerful enough to reach across interstellar space takes a huge amount of energy. The oft-repeated claim that our own TV and radio broadcasts could be leaking out and giving us away to alien listeners is a popular idea, but a highly dubious one. Yes, I Love Lucy shows have now traveled 50 light-years into space, but the transmissions are so incredibly weak that it doesn't matter. (Comment on this story.)
Based on an exhaustive analysis, the Benfords have concluded that it would be far more cost-effective for aliens who wanted to be detected to send out short, powerful bursts every so often to signal their presence. "You send out a few pulses, then move on and come back every once and a while," Benford says. "That makes sense if aliens don't really know we're here." These so-called "Benford beacons" (a nickname bestowed by others in the community who are familiar with the idea) wouldn't necessarily show up when earthbound scientists happened to be listening, so it would be easy to miss them.
The solution, say the Benfords, is to monitor many stars continuously, and the direction to look is the center of the Milky Way, for three reasons. First, there are simply more stars there, where the galaxy gets more and more crowded. Second, those stars tend to be older, meaning civilizations would have a head start on developing technology. Third, a smart ET — and we're assuming they'd be smart — would point a beacon out along the precise radius of the galaxy, since such a clean and obvious direction is where an equally smart species (us, for instance) would aim its listening devices. (See pictures of Earth from space.)
Unfortunately, just as continuous broadcasting takes up resources, so does continuous listening. "People assume that SETI searches are going on all the time," says Benford, "but if you add up the total observing time over last half century, it's a total of only a few months."
That's started to change with the debut of the Allen Telescope Array in California, run by the SETI Institute and devoted full-time to ET hunting, as opposed to all of the SETI work performed to date, which had to be scrounged from whatever telescopes were available. But for much broader coverage, the Benfords also want to enlist the SETI League, an association of amateurs who use small radio dishes — including satellite-TV receivers — to listen to the heavens. If they're right about what ET would do, so many people listening to so rich a region of the sky might even pick up the telltale signal of intelligent life on a distant world within a few years. Even the SETI folks agree that's possible — and don't seem to mind being told that they've been going about things the wrong way.
"They make a good point that the aliens would use beacons, not continuous beams," says Seth Shostak, an astronomer at the SETI Institute. "The idea isn't new — I think I have several papers published in the last five or more years with similar suggestions. But hey, these guys have worked out beacon parameters, and that's a good thing to do." (See a special report on the 40th anniversary of the moon landing.)
Of course, all the new work may be unnecessary, since it's just possible we've spotted ET already. Several times over the past 50 years, searchers have picked up radio signals that flashed once or twice, then disappeared. The best known of these is called the "Wow" signal, because that's what an astronomer who picked it up wrote on a printout from a radio telescope at Ohio State University in the 1970s. SETI searchers went back to the star in question immediately, but heard nothing. It may be well be, suggests Benford, that we detected extraterrestrials more than three decades ago — and because we weren't taking into account what E.T. would do, failed to confirm it.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Artikel Dunia Kerja: Solving Problems as an “IT Guy”
by Nick Roberts on August 14, 2009
If you took on the task of being the information technology expert at your work place, a lot is expected of you. Unfortunately the stigma of “IT Guy” has always been that they are grumpy middle aged men that don’t really IT Guywant to help. But the truth is, they do. You just have to break that mold and be sure that you’re there to help people when they need it. After all, that’s why you were hired. You may have more knowledge about computers and get frustrated by the simplicity of the some of problems you’re presented with. Don’t sweat it. Sit down and take the problem step by step with the person you’re helping and hopefully they’ll learn from their mishaps and be able to save you some time in the future by solving their own problems.
So where do you begin when you want to help someone solve their computer woes?
* Diagnose the Problem: Obviously the first thing you have to do is figure out where the problem is coming from. Ask them in a polite way what they were doing when it happened, had they done anything prior to that, any funny noises? Work your way down the list until you’ve figured out what exactly is wrong.
* Troubleshoot: Here comes the fun part. Now that you’ve figured what’s wrong, you have to figure out how to fix it. As an IT professional you should know where to begin. So work your way down the list of troubleshooting tricks. But instead of just running through your normal list and leaving your coworker in the dark, if they’re up to it, let them know what you’re doing. “OK so right now I think the problem is XYZ, which means that I’m going to have to try ABC to fix it.” This way they’ll feel more involved and they may be able to fix their own email woes next time around.
* Questions: Once you’ve shown them what it is you’re doing so they understand your thought process behind the whole thing, ask them if they understand. I know it can get frustrating when non-computer techies try to understand what it is you’re doing but you’d be surprised at how many people have a thirst for learning. If you can make sure they understand what went wrong and how to fix it by answering their questions, they’ll be a whole lot better off.
* Build a relationship: By guiding them through the fix you can build a relationship with your clients or coworkers. This can pay huge dividends in the long run if you’re ever worried about your job security. Unfortunately IT Professionals are a dime a dozen so it’s best to try and make yourself stand out of the pack by providing quality service and care to the office. If you’re the regular IT guy who’s grumpy and irritable at fixing problems, you can’t guarantee your job security in the slightest.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
If you took on the task of being the information technology expert at your work place, a lot is expected of you. Unfortunately the stigma of “IT Guy” has always been that they are grumpy middle aged men that don’t really IT Guywant to help. But the truth is, they do. You just have to break that mold and be sure that you’re there to help people when they need it. After all, that’s why you were hired. You may have more knowledge about computers and get frustrated by the simplicity of the some of problems you’re presented with. Don’t sweat it. Sit down and take the problem step by step with the person you’re helping and hopefully they’ll learn from their mishaps and be able to save you some time in the future by solving their own problems.
So where do you begin when you want to help someone solve their computer woes?
* Diagnose the Problem: Obviously the first thing you have to do is figure out where the problem is coming from. Ask them in a polite way what they were doing when it happened, had they done anything prior to that, any funny noises? Work your way down the list until you’ve figured out what exactly is wrong.
* Troubleshoot: Here comes the fun part. Now that you’ve figured what’s wrong, you have to figure out how to fix it. As an IT professional you should know where to begin. So work your way down the list of troubleshooting tricks. But instead of just running through your normal list and leaving your coworker in the dark, if they’re up to it, let them know what you’re doing. “OK so right now I think the problem is XYZ, which means that I’m going to have to try ABC to fix it.” This way they’ll feel more involved and they may be able to fix their own email woes next time around.
* Questions: Once you’ve shown them what it is you’re doing so they understand your thought process behind the whole thing, ask them if they understand. I know it can get frustrating when non-computer techies try to understand what it is you’re doing but you’d be surprised at how many people have a thirst for learning. If you can make sure they understand what went wrong and how to fix it by answering their questions, they’ll be a whole lot better off.
* Build a relationship: By guiding them through the fix you can build a relationship with your clients or coworkers. This can pay huge dividends in the long run if you’re ever worried about your job security. Unfortunately IT Professionals are a dime a dozen so it’s best to try and make yourself stand out of the pack by providing quality service and care to the office. If you’re the regular IT guy who’s grumpy and irritable at fixing problems, you can’t guarantee your job security in the slightest.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
ARTIKEL DUNIA KERJA: How to Become an IT Professional
by Al on February 28, 2010
The information technology field is forever growing and it’s almost impossible to keep up sometimes. With computers invading our everyday lives more and more, there are more and more people struggling to keep things straight and troubleshoot their computer troubles. You may be very gifted in the field of computers, but most people aren’t. That’s why people that love computers and are confident in understanding their inner working are a very valuable commodity in the work force to make sure things work smoothly. Here’s how you can break into the IT field and make money doing what you love.
1. The first thing you’re going to want to make sure of is that you’re confident enough around a computer to work on others. If you think you’d be hesitant to work on other people’s machines and make necessary changes in either software or hardware realms, this job may not be for your. IT Professionals have to be sure of their abilities and must not be afraid to open up a computer and move things around a little bit. If you feel ready to do those things, let’s move on.
2. A college degree isn’t necessary to work on other people’s computers. A lot of the knowledge that’s necessary to repair a computer can be obtained through sheer practice. But, if you want to expedite the process, you will want to get a college degree in information technology. In universities, the information technology field is covered under a much broader field of computer science. Within the computer science field is a software side of things and a hardware side of things. I recommend getting your degree in the software side of things as hardware can be learned very easily, but with knowledge of programming and how things work together within an operating system, you’ll have a much easier time figuring out what could be the problem of your client’s computer.
3. With a degree in computer science, you have two options. If you want to fix other people’s computers for a living, you can easily start your own computer repair firm and research competitive prices in your area to see how much you should charge. Remember to have clients sign a waiver that doesn’t put you at risk for a lawsuit should things go awry. Your second option is to work for a business or firm that has a large IT department. Companies need computers to run but because many companies don’t work in the computer business, hiring someone else to manage their network and systems is their best bet. Working for these types of companies can earn you a very nice income if you’re proficient in the job.
The sky is really the limit when it comes to IT. There are no formal licenses that you need to obtain if you’re wanting to start your own private IT company either. That means that if you’re good enough with computers, you can start right away. Everyone would benefit from a computer science degree but it isn’t absolutely necessary. Finally, if you decide to work for a company, be aware of what you’re getting into and understand that while you may have been hired as the network guy, you’ll be expected to have a broad range of other knowledge to fix problems along the way.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
The information technology field is forever growing and it’s almost impossible to keep up sometimes. With computers invading our everyday lives more and more, there are more and more people struggling to keep things straight and troubleshoot their computer troubles. You may be very gifted in the field of computers, but most people aren’t. That’s why people that love computers and are confident in understanding their inner working are a very valuable commodity in the work force to make sure things work smoothly. Here’s how you can break into the IT field and make money doing what you love.
1. The first thing you’re going to want to make sure of is that you’re confident enough around a computer to work on others. If you think you’d be hesitant to work on other people’s machines and make necessary changes in either software or hardware realms, this job may not be for your. IT Professionals have to be sure of their abilities and must not be afraid to open up a computer and move things around a little bit. If you feel ready to do those things, let’s move on.
2. A college degree isn’t necessary to work on other people’s computers. A lot of the knowledge that’s necessary to repair a computer can be obtained through sheer practice. But, if you want to expedite the process, you will want to get a college degree in information technology. In universities, the information technology field is covered under a much broader field of computer science. Within the computer science field is a software side of things and a hardware side of things. I recommend getting your degree in the software side of things as hardware can be learned very easily, but with knowledge of programming and how things work together within an operating system, you’ll have a much easier time figuring out what could be the problem of your client’s computer.
3. With a degree in computer science, you have two options. If you want to fix other people’s computers for a living, you can easily start your own computer repair firm and research competitive prices in your area to see how much you should charge. Remember to have clients sign a waiver that doesn’t put you at risk for a lawsuit should things go awry. Your second option is to work for a business or firm that has a large IT department. Companies need computers to run but because many companies don’t work in the computer business, hiring someone else to manage their network and systems is their best bet. Working for these types of companies can earn you a very nice income if you’re proficient in the job.
The sky is really the limit when it comes to IT. There are no formal licenses that you need to obtain if you’re wanting to start your own private IT company either. That means that if you’re good enough with computers, you can start right away. Everyone would benefit from a computer science degree but it isn’t absolutely necessary. Finally, if you decide to work for a company, be aware of what you’re getting into and understand that while you may have been hired as the network guy, you’ll be expected to have a broad range of other knowledge to fix problems along the way.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
ARTIKEL DUNIA KERJA: Nanotechnology, Nanomaterials and Self-Assembly
Richard Feynman is lauded as the grandfather of the nanotechnology revolution. In 1959, he gave a talk to the American Physical Society entitled "There's Plenty of Room at the Bottom", paving the way for a generation of technologies exploiting our understanding of very small scales.
The Reach of Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is no longer the stuff of science fiction, or even abstruse research. Scientists are manufacturing better catalytic converters, delivering tiny doses of drugs to cells and even making stain-repellant clothing, all thanks to the ability to order the very small to their liking. The titanium oxide in high-end sunscreen and new "easy-clean" ceramics are evidence of nanotechnology in action. The world of scientific interest is, quite literally, getting smaller.
Cost-Effective Manufacturing of Nanotubes, Nanowires and Nanodots
Cheaper ways to make the nanotubes used in high-density storage devices, and the nanowires and nanodots used in thin film solar cells and nanosolar devices, are of particular importance to researchers and manufacturers alike.
There is, however, a major bottleneck on the march towards successful large-scale production of nanomaterials, and that is cost. Manipulation at the molecular level is expensive and fraught with error, and as such scientists are turning to innovative methods to get their nano-soldiers in line without the costly business of manually forcing them into order.
What is needed is a class of nanomaterials that naturally 'grow' into the structures needed for industrial applications, without costly human interference. These materials exist through the magic of self-assembly, a set of technologies that have the potential to complete the nano-revolution. Physicists, chemists and biologists are working together to build things the way nature does it - by exploiting the underlying interactions between molecules.
Self-assembly and Diblock Copolymers
One such molecule, brought to us by advances in polymer science, is the diblock copolymer, the doyenne of self-assembly. Diblock copolymers are long, thin, molecular strands containing two linked chains of single molecules called monomers in a structure such as:
A-A-A-B-B-B
Ensure that 'A' monomers repel 'B' monomers and place large numbers of these molecules in a high-temperature 'melt', and interesting things happen. Entropy causes polymers to coil up, but repulsive interactions between the 'A' and 'B' monomers would favour stretched polymers. The interplay of these competing interactions as the temperature, and thus the entropy, of the system increases, causes remarkably complex structures to emerge.
In its lowest temperature state, a diblock copolymer melt will form alternating sheets of 'A' and 'B' monomers. The 'A' and 'B' sides of the polymer are bonded and can never escape each other completely, so they take the next best option and form into layers - a phenomenon known as microphase separation.
As the temperature, and thus the entropy, of the system increases, other microphases begin to emerge. First, we see the sheets break up into long, regular, thin cylinders. Then they break again into tiny, perfect spheres. Finally, at very high entropy, the coiling takes over and the melt becomes completely disordered.
Confine a diblock copolymer melt to a cylinder and even more interesting things happen. Corkscrews, donut shapes and double helices are all within the reach of the phase separation of this versatile molecular artisan.
Consequences for Solar Cell Manufacturing and Storage Devices
These discoveries, made experimentally in the last twenty-five years and only understood theoretically in the last fifteen, have wonderful consequences for the scale and cost of nanomaterial production. If we understand diblock copolymer melts well enough, we will be able literally to 'grow' lithographic templates, on tiny scales, to make sheets of nanotubes, nanowires and nanodots crucial for applications in everything from thin film solar cells and high-density storage media, to quantum computers. IBM announced in 2003 that they had used self-assembly to make prototype transistors.
More deeply, this new way of thinking about manufacturing marks a leap forward in our ability to control our environment. From the assembly line to the self-assembly line, scientists are increasingly looking to exploit, rather than to control, natural processes. This idea has a depth of reach that only decades of further research can bring to fruition.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
The Reach of Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is no longer the stuff of science fiction, or even abstruse research. Scientists are manufacturing better catalytic converters, delivering tiny doses of drugs to cells and even making stain-repellant clothing, all thanks to the ability to order the very small to their liking. The titanium oxide in high-end sunscreen and new "easy-clean" ceramics are evidence of nanotechnology in action. The world of scientific interest is, quite literally, getting smaller.
Cost-Effective Manufacturing of Nanotubes, Nanowires and Nanodots
Cheaper ways to make the nanotubes used in high-density storage devices, and the nanowires and nanodots used in thin film solar cells and nanosolar devices, are of particular importance to researchers and manufacturers alike.
There is, however, a major bottleneck on the march towards successful large-scale production of nanomaterials, and that is cost. Manipulation at the molecular level is expensive and fraught with error, and as such scientists are turning to innovative methods to get their nano-soldiers in line without the costly business of manually forcing them into order.
What is needed is a class of nanomaterials that naturally 'grow' into the structures needed for industrial applications, without costly human interference. These materials exist through the magic of self-assembly, a set of technologies that have the potential to complete the nano-revolution. Physicists, chemists and biologists are working together to build things the way nature does it - by exploiting the underlying interactions between molecules.
Self-assembly and Diblock Copolymers
One such molecule, brought to us by advances in polymer science, is the diblock copolymer, the doyenne of self-assembly. Diblock copolymers are long, thin, molecular strands containing two linked chains of single molecules called monomers in a structure such as:
A-A-A-B-B-B
Ensure that 'A' monomers repel 'B' monomers and place large numbers of these molecules in a high-temperature 'melt', and interesting things happen. Entropy causes polymers to coil up, but repulsive interactions between the 'A' and 'B' monomers would favour stretched polymers. The interplay of these competing interactions as the temperature, and thus the entropy, of the system increases, causes remarkably complex structures to emerge.
In its lowest temperature state, a diblock copolymer melt will form alternating sheets of 'A' and 'B' monomers. The 'A' and 'B' sides of the polymer are bonded and can never escape each other completely, so they take the next best option and form into layers - a phenomenon known as microphase separation.
As the temperature, and thus the entropy, of the system increases, other microphases begin to emerge. First, we see the sheets break up into long, regular, thin cylinders. Then they break again into tiny, perfect spheres. Finally, at very high entropy, the coiling takes over and the melt becomes completely disordered.
Confine a diblock copolymer melt to a cylinder and even more interesting things happen. Corkscrews, donut shapes and double helices are all within the reach of the phase separation of this versatile molecular artisan.
Consequences for Solar Cell Manufacturing and Storage Devices
These discoveries, made experimentally in the last twenty-five years and only understood theoretically in the last fifteen, have wonderful consequences for the scale and cost of nanomaterial production. If we understand diblock copolymer melts well enough, we will be able literally to 'grow' lithographic templates, on tiny scales, to make sheets of nanotubes, nanowires and nanodots crucial for applications in everything from thin film solar cells and high-density storage media, to quantum computers. IBM announced in 2003 that they had used self-assembly to make prototype transistors.
More deeply, this new way of thinking about manufacturing marks a leap forward in our ability to control our environment. From the assembly line to the self-assembly line, scientists are increasingly looking to exploit, rather than to control, natural processes. This idea has a depth of reach that only decades of further research can bring to fruition.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
ARTIKEL DUNIA KERJA: How do Air Conditioners Work?
BY: Susan Kristoff
Many take the cool air produced by an air conditioning unit for granted, but how is that cold air created?
The cold air pumped out by an air conditioning (AC) unit can produce a refreshing oasis on hot summer days. Air conditioners are found in homes, cars, buses, subways, skyscrapers, and shopping centers. They can be small portable units or huge industrial systems. This device provides comfort to millions of people when the temperature rises. But how does an AC unit take that hot air and cool it down?
The Parts of an Air Conditioner
Air conditioners are devices that use a refrigeration cycle to reduce the temperature of input air. The specific thermodynamic process used in air conditioners is called the vapor-compression refrigeration cycle, and the mechanism consists of four parts:
1. Evaporator
2. Compressor
3. Condenser
4. Expansion Valve
Refrigerant flows through the circuit created by these parts, and acts as the working fluid. A refrigerant is a compound that has a boiling point below the target temperature, has a high heat of vaporization, and does not cause corrosion, among other properties. Prior to the 1980's, refrigerants were generally made of chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) and other compounds that were found to harm the Earth's ozone layer. Since then, newer and safer refrigerants have replaced these toxic materials.
The Air Conditioning Cycle
When the liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator, the lower pressure causes the refrigerant to evaporate into a vapor. The evaporator is exposed to the air in the zone to be cooled (the interior of the home in the case of a wall-mounted home AC unit), and the evaporation process causes the refrigerant to pull in heat from the air during its phase change.
The vaporized refrigerant passes through a compressor, which increases the pressure of the refrigerant. The refrigerant then enters the condenser, where it returns to liquid form. When it returns to liquid, it releases the heat that it absorbed within the evaporator.
The condenser is exposed to a different zone than that being cooled (the exterior of the home in the case of a wall-mounted home AC unit), allowing the interior zone to retain its lowered temperature. The liquid refrigerant then passes through an expansion valve, where the pressure is reduced, and the process repeats itself.
Fans are used to move cold air out of the AC unit into the air conditioned space and to exhaust the heat from the AC unit. The exhaust is released outside of the cooled space. For this reason, a flow of hot air can he felt when walking past the outside of a window-mounted air conditioner.
The air conditioner takes thermodynamic principles and applies them to a material with just the right properties to make millions of people more comfortable during the dog days of summer.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Many take the cool air produced by an air conditioning unit for granted, but how is that cold air created?
The cold air pumped out by an air conditioning (AC) unit can produce a refreshing oasis on hot summer days. Air conditioners are found in homes, cars, buses, subways, skyscrapers, and shopping centers. They can be small portable units or huge industrial systems. This device provides comfort to millions of people when the temperature rises. But how does an AC unit take that hot air and cool it down?
The Parts of an Air Conditioner
Air conditioners are devices that use a refrigeration cycle to reduce the temperature of input air. The specific thermodynamic process used in air conditioners is called the vapor-compression refrigeration cycle, and the mechanism consists of four parts:
1. Evaporator
2. Compressor
3. Condenser
4. Expansion Valve
Refrigerant flows through the circuit created by these parts, and acts as the working fluid. A refrigerant is a compound that has a boiling point below the target temperature, has a high heat of vaporization, and does not cause corrosion, among other properties. Prior to the 1980's, refrigerants were generally made of chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) and other compounds that were found to harm the Earth's ozone layer. Since then, newer and safer refrigerants have replaced these toxic materials.
The Air Conditioning Cycle
When the liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator, the lower pressure causes the refrigerant to evaporate into a vapor. The evaporator is exposed to the air in the zone to be cooled (the interior of the home in the case of a wall-mounted home AC unit), and the evaporation process causes the refrigerant to pull in heat from the air during its phase change.
The vaporized refrigerant passes through a compressor, which increases the pressure of the refrigerant. The refrigerant then enters the condenser, where it returns to liquid form. When it returns to liquid, it releases the heat that it absorbed within the evaporator.
The condenser is exposed to a different zone than that being cooled (the exterior of the home in the case of a wall-mounted home AC unit), allowing the interior zone to retain its lowered temperature. The liquid refrigerant then passes through an expansion valve, where the pressure is reduced, and the process repeats itself.
Fans are used to move cold air out of the AC unit into the air conditioned space and to exhaust the heat from the AC unit. The exhaust is released outside of the cooled space. For this reason, a flow of hot air can he felt when walking past the outside of a window-mounted air conditioner.
The air conditioner takes thermodynamic principles and applies them to a material with just the right properties to make millions of people more comfortable during the dog days of summer.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
ARTIKEL DUNIA KERJA: Can A Motor Be Run On Lower/Higher Than Rated Frequency?
Article by sriram balu
We all know about the supply frequency which is essential for any electrical machinery. But can you run a motor rated for 50 Hz on a 60 Hz supply, or vice versa? Read here to know the in-depth analysis of the above conditions.
Introduction
The basic expression relating the speed of an induction motor and its frequency is N = 120f/P. From this expression, many facts can be derived and understood. And this expression is also helpful in understanding starting and full load torques of an induction motor. In this article, let us explore in-depth, of what happens to an induction motor if the supply frequency and supply voltage is varied.
Effect of Change in Supply Voltage on Torque and Speed
As already discussed in my article on speed control of induction motors, it is evident that the torque (T) of an induction motor is directly proportional to the square of the supply voltage. During starting, the supply voltage is kept to minimum, so that the torque is also minimum. When the supply voltage is gradually increased, the torque increases following the relation:
T α s * V^2.
Where T = torque,
s = slip and
V = the supply voltage.
So it is evident from the above equation that the torque at any speed is proportional to the square of the applied voltage. If the stator voltage is decreased by 10%, then the torque decreases by 20%. This decrease in torque, due to decrease in supply voltage will not only happen during starting of the motor, but also during running conditions. It should be appreciated that when the supply voltage V decreases, then the torque T also decreases. But there is a load connected to the motor and it requires a constant torque all the time. Thus in order to maintain a constant torque during reduced supply voltage, as a compensation, the speed of the motor decreases.
It should be understood by referring to the torque equation, “T α s * V^2”, as the supply voltage is reduced, the slip increases to maintain a constant torque. As the slip increases the speed of the motor reduces.
Effect of Change in Supply Frequency on Torque and Speed
The change in supply frequency hardly occurs in large distribution systems used on land. If there are some major disturbances or very heavy load fluctuating continuously, then there might be a minimal frequency variation. But large frequency variations are possible on electrical systems used on board ships and emergency supply systems for factories and hospitals. Such large frequency variations are possible on low power systems where diesel engines and gas turbines are used as prime movers.
As already mentioned, the relation between the speed of the motor and its frequency is given by the expression N = 120f/P.
From this expression, it is evident that the speed of the motor is directly proportional to the supply frequency. Thus any decrease or increase in frequency will affect the speed of the motor. Let us now analyze what exactly happens when a motor of 50Hz made to run with 60Hz supply and vice-versa.
Analysis 1:
When a 50 Hz motor is made to run on 60 Hz supply:
It is general practice in several countries to have all house-hold items and equipments rated for 50 Hz supply. So when such small domestic devices are connected to a 60 Hz supply, they cause a severe problem. For better understanding, let us visualize this small calculation:
[(60Hz – 50 Hz)/ 50 Hz] * 100 = 20 %. Thus all such equipments run 20 % faster than their normal rated speed. This is not safe for the equipment as the insulations may be rated for lesser capacity and windings may burn-out. To run safely, we either require a reduction gear or an expensive 50 Hz source.
Also this 50 Hz motor will operate perfectly on a 60 Hz supply provided its supply voltage is stepped-up.
60 Hz/ 50 Hz = 6/5 * 100 = 120 %.
Analysis 2:
60 Hz motor connected to 50 Hz supply:
It is same as the above, but instead of stepping-up the supply voltage, it is necessary to step-down the supply voltage.
50Hz/ 60 Hz = 5/6 * 100 = 80 %.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
We all know about the supply frequency which is essential for any electrical machinery. But can you run a motor rated for 50 Hz on a 60 Hz supply, or vice versa? Read here to know the in-depth analysis of the above conditions.
Introduction
The basic expression relating the speed of an induction motor and its frequency is N = 120f/P. From this expression, many facts can be derived and understood. And this expression is also helpful in understanding starting and full load torques of an induction motor. In this article, let us explore in-depth, of what happens to an induction motor if the supply frequency and supply voltage is varied.
Effect of Change in Supply Voltage on Torque and Speed
As already discussed in my article on speed control of induction motors, it is evident that the torque (T) of an induction motor is directly proportional to the square of the supply voltage. During starting, the supply voltage is kept to minimum, so that the torque is also minimum. When the supply voltage is gradually increased, the torque increases following the relation:
T α s * V^2.
Where T = torque,
s = slip and
V = the supply voltage.
So it is evident from the above equation that the torque at any speed is proportional to the square of the applied voltage. If the stator voltage is decreased by 10%, then the torque decreases by 20%. This decrease in torque, due to decrease in supply voltage will not only happen during starting of the motor, but also during running conditions. It should be appreciated that when the supply voltage V decreases, then the torque T also decreases. But there is a load connected to the motor and it requires a constant torque all the time. Thus in order to maintain a constant torque during reduced supply voltage, as a compensation, the speed of the motor decreases.
It should be understood by referring to the torque equation, “T α s * V^2”, as the supply voltage is reduced, the slip increases to maintain a constant torque. As the slip increases the speed of the motor reduces.
Effect of Change in Supply Frequency on Torque and Speed
The change in supply frequency hardly occurs in large distribution systems used on land. If there are some major disturbances or very heavy load fluctuating continuously, then there might be a minimal frequency variation. But large frequency variations are possible on electrical systems used on board ships and emergency supply systems for factories and hospitals. Such large frequency variations are possible on low power systems where diesel engines and gas turbines are used as prime movers.
As already mentioned, the relation between the speed of the motor and its frequency is given by the expression N = 120f/P.
From this expression, it is evident that the speed of the motor is directly proportional to the supply frequency. Thus any decrease or increase in frequency will affect the speed of the motor. Let us now analyze what exactly happens when a motor of 50Hz made to run with 60Hz supply and vice-versa.
Analysis 1:
When a 50 Hz motor is made to run on 60 Hz supply:
It is general practice in several countries to have all house-hold items and equipments rated for 50 Hz supply. So when such small domestic devices are connected to a 60 Hz supply, they cause a severe problem. For better understanding, let us visualize this small calculation:
[(60Hz – 50 Hz)/ 50 Hz] * 100 = 20 %. Thus all such equipments run 20 % faster than their normal rated speed. This is not safe for the equipment as the insulations may be rated for lesser capacity and windings may burn-out. To run safely, we either require a reduction gear or an expensive 50 Hz source.
Also this 50 Hz motor will operate perfectly on a 60 Hz supply provided its supply voltage is stepped-up.
60 Hz/ 50 Hz = 6/5 * 100 = 120 %.
Analysis 2:
60 Hz motor connected to 50 Hz supply:
It is same as the above, but instead of stepping-up the supply voltage, it is necessary to step-down the supply voltage.
50Hz/ 60 Hz = 5/6 * 100 = 80 %.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Artikel Dunia Kerja: Before You Decide to Go Wireless
By: Jamie Smith
Before you decide to go wireless or not, there are many points to consider. You may be asking yourself if wireless is for you. Well, today, many people are asking themselves the same question. If you watch the headline news, you are bound to see stories involving mergers, federal regulations, and new tax rules. This all points to the fact that VoIP has made a definite impression on American citizens and is here to stay. It may be difficult for some people to remove the telephone cords from their homes; we have depended on them for over 100 years. But once many people take the time to weigh the pros and the cons, most choose to go wireless. Here are some reasons, why you should make the switch to wireless.
1. Wireless Creates a Faster Network
Wireless networks are fast. With VoIP, you can create a network that incorporates data, audio, video, and computer web features. You can easily monitor your network for problems and troubleshooting is much simpler with web based applications rather than hardware applications. VoIP uses less bandwidth than other applications and this in the long run saves money. This is of special value to businesses. Businesses can also provide better customer service with integrated programs. Not only does this increase productivity, but also it saves time and money in the long run.
2. VoIP Saves You Money
Overall, VoIP is much more inexpensive then PSTN. You simply pay for your Internet service, and then whichever VoIP provider you choose. For a one time monthly fee, you can have unlimited local and long distance phone calls. You will need to check with the VoIP service provider that you choose for exact details on their rates. Sometimes, your VoIP service provider will allow free calls within the world to another computer, yet there may be a fee for calls worldwide to a landline phone. Always check with your chosen service provider for exact details regarding your chosen plan. Included in many VoIP service plans are free features. These features include Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting, Do Not Disturb, and more. Again, check with your chosen service provider for an overview of all the features bundled with your plan. The biggest benefit is the unlimited long distance calling. This has proven to be the number one reason why most businesses are switching to VoIP. For businesses such as sales or jobs that have mobile employees, these benefits go without saying. But overall, the average cost of VoIP is considerably less when compared to the cost of PSTN.
Banks Are Tightening Credit Rules On Home Loans!
If you have a down-payment and you are ready to buy a home now,
don't let your local bankers keep you from participating in the
American Dream of home ownership.
Instead of letting a banker decide whether you can afford to buy a home or not, let one of our motivated home sellers put you into a home today. Express your interest in home ownership, by filling out our home buyers' application form at: http://www.LibertyHomeSellers.com.
3. VoIP Enables you to Talk with More than One Person at a Time
With VoIP, you can talk with more than one person without paying extra for services such as three way calling. With VoIP you can have more than three people on the phone at once. VoIP is the perfect solution for those who want to explore the features of conference calls. This is very important for businesses that have employees overseas. By using the video conferencing features, employers will increase their productivity.
4. Enjoy Greater Flexibility
By using VoIP, you can take your VoIP equipment with you whenever you travel. Your VoIP service provider will send you a converter that will allow you to use your converter with any standard telephone. The converter comes programmed with your telephone number, allowing you to take your phone and phone number with you worldwide. All you will need is a high speed Internet connection and you can use your VoIP phone service. This is of extreme benefit to mobile employees. No longer are outdated telecommunications systems necessary, or are employees trying to run businesses on prepaid cell phone plans. By using VoIP, an employee will have access to his/her phone number, wherever they are located. Whether out of state, in a hotel, or traveling on a business trip, customers will be able to call the same number as well as leave voice mail on the employee's computer.
5. You can Save Money for Family and Friends by Choosing Your Area Code
Many VoIP service providers will give you the option of selecting your own area code number. This is a tremendous benefit to family and friend members who can call you locally, if you select the same area code number.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Before you decide to go wireless or not, there are many points to consider. You may be asking yourself if wireless is for you. Well, today, many people are asking themselves the same question. If you watch the headline news, you are bound to see stories involving mergers, federal regulations, and new tax rules. This all points to the fact that VoIP has made a definite impression on American citizens and is here to stay. It may be difficult for some people to remove the telephone cords from their homes; we have depended on them for over 100 years. But once many people take the time to weigh the pros and the cons, most choose to go wireless. Here are some reasons, why you should make the switch to wireless.
1. Wireless Creates a Faster Network
Wireless networks are fast. With VoIP, you can create a network that incorporates data, audio, video, and computer web features. You can easily monitor your network for problems and troubleshooting is much simpler with web based applications rather than hardware applications. VoIP uses less bandwidth than other applications and this in the long run saves money. This is of special value to businesses. Businesses can also provide better customer service with integrated programs. Not only does this increase productivity, but also it saves time and money in the long run.
2. VoIP Saves You Money
Overall, VoIP is much more inexpensive then PSTN. You simply pay for your Internet service, and then whichever VoIP provider you choose. For a one time monthly fee, you can have unlimited local and long distance phone calls. You will need to check with the VoIP service provider that you choose for exact details on their rates. Sometimes, your VoIP service provider will allow free calls within the world to another computer, yet there may be a fee for calls worldwide to a landline phone. Always check with your chosen service provider for exact details regarding your chosen plan. Included in many VoIP service plans are free features. These features include Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting, Do Not Disturb, and more. Again, check with your chosen service provider for an overview of all the features bundled with your plan. The biggest benefit is the unlimited long distance calling. This has proven to be the number one reason why most businesses are switching to VoIP. For businesses such as sales or jobs that have mobile employees, these benefits go without saying. But overall, the average cost of VoIP is considerably less when compared to the cost of PSTN.
Banks Are Tightening Credit Rules On Home Loans!
If you have a down-payment and you are ready to buy a home now,
don't let your local bankers keep you from participating in the
American Dream of home ownership.
Instead of letting a banker decide whether you can afford to buy a home or not, let one of our motivated home sellers put you into a home today. Express your interest in home ownership, by filling out our home buyers' application form at: http://www.LibertyHomeSellers.com.
3. VoIP Enables you to Talk with More than One Person at a Time
With VoIP, you can talk with more than one person without paying extra for services such as three way calling. With VoIP you can have more than three people on the phone at once. VoIP is the perfect solution for those who want to explore the features of conference calls. This is very important for businesses that have employees overseas. By using the video conferencing features, employers will increase their productivity.
4. Enjoy Greater Flexibility
By using VoIP, you can take your VoIP equipment with you whenever you travel. Your VoIP service provider will send you a converter that will allow you to use your converter with any standard telephone. The converter comes programmed with your telephone number, allowing you to take your phone and phone number with you worldwide. All you will need is a high speed Internet connection and you can use your VoIP phone service. This is of extreme benefit to mobile employees. No longer are outdated telecommunications systems necessary, or are employees trying to run businesses on prepaid cell phone plans. By using VoIP, an employee will have access to his/her phone number, wherever they are located. Whether out of state, in a hotel, or traveling on a business trip, customers will be able to call the same number as well as leave voice mail on the employee's computer.
5. You can Save Money for Family and Friends by Choosing Your Area Code
Many VoIP service providers will give you the option of selecting your own area code number. This is a tremendous benefit to family and friend members who can call you locally, if you select the same area code number.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Artikel Dunia Kerja : How to Work With Anonymous Sources (II)
How to Work With Sources Who Don't Want Their Names Published
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
What Should You Do?
Evaluate the information your source has. Does he have solid evidence the mayor is stealing, or merely a hunch? If he’s got good evidence, then you probably need him as a source.
Talk to your source. Ask him how likely it is that he’d be fired if he spoke publicly. Point out that he’d be doing the town a public service by helping to expose a corrupt politician. You may still be able to convince him to go on the record.
Find other sources to confirm the story, preferably sources who will speak on the record. This is especially important if your source’s evidence is flimsy. Generally, the more independent sources you have to verify a story, the more solid it is.
Talk to your editor or to a more experienced reporter. They can probably shed some light on whether you should use an anonymous source in the story you’re working on.
After following these steps, you may decide you still need to use an anonymous source.
But remember, anonymous sources don’t have the same credibility as named sources. For this reason, many newspapers have banned the use of anonymous sources entirely.
And even papers that don’t have such a ban will seldom, if ever, publish a story based entirely on anonymous sources.
So even if you have to use an anonymous source, always try to find other sources who will speak on the record.
The Most Famous Anonymous Source
Undoubtedly the most famous anonymous source in the history of American journalism was Deep Throat. That was the nickname given to a source who leaked information to Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein as they investigated the Watergate scandal of the Nixon White House.
In dramatic, late-night meetings in a Washington, D.C., parking garage, Deep Throat provided Woodward with information on the criminal conspiracy in the government. In exchange, Woodward promised Deep Throat anonymity, and his identity remained a mystery for more than 30 years.
Finally, in 2005, Vanity Fair revealed Deep Throat’s identity: Mark Felt, a top FBI official during the Nixon years.
But Woodward and Bernstein have pointed out that Deep Throat mostly gave them tips on how to pursue their investigation, or simply confirmed information they had received from other sources.
In other words, even the most famous anonymous source in history was no substitute for good, thorough reporting and plenty of on-the-record information.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
What Should You Do?
Evaluate the information your source has. Does he have solid evidence the mayor is stealing, or merely a hunch? If he’s got good evidence, then you probably need him as a source.
Talk to your source. Ask him how likely it is that he’d be fired if he spoke publicly. Point out that he’d be doing the town a public service by helping to expose a corrupt politician. You may still be able to convince him to go on the record.
Find other sources to confirm the story, preferably sources who will speak on the record. This is especially important if your source’s evidence is flimsy. Generally, the more independent sources you have to verify a story, the more solid it is.
Talk to your editor or to a more experienced reporter. They can probably shed some light on whether you should use an anonymous source in the story you’re working on.
After following these steps, you may decide you still need to use an anonymous source.
But remember, anonymous sources don’t have the same credibility as named sources. For this reason, many newspapers have banned the use of anonymous sources entirely.
And even papers that don’t have such a ban will seldom, if ever, publish a story based entirely on anonymous sources.
So even if you have to use an anonymous source, always try to find other sources who will speak on the record.
The Most Famous Anonymous Source
Undoubtedly the most famous anonymous source in the history of American journalism was Deep Throat. That was the nickname given to a source who leaked information to Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein as they investigated the Watergate scandal of the Nixon White House.
In dramatic, late-night meetings in a Washington, D.C., parking garage, Deep Throat provided Woodward with information on the criminal conspiracy in the government. In exchange, Woodward promised Deep Throat anonymity, and his identity remained a mystery for more than 30 years.
Finally, in 2005, Vanity Fair revealed Deep Throat’s identity: Mark Felt, a top FBI official during the Nixon years.
But Woodward and Bernstein have pointed out that Deep Throat mostly gave them tips on how to pursue their investigation, or simply confirmed information they had received from other sources.
In other words, even the most famous anonymous source in history was no substitute for good, thorough reporting and plenty of on-the-record information.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Artikel Dunia Kerja : How to Work With Anonymous Sources (I)
How to Work With Sources Who Don't Want Their Names Published
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
How to Work With Anonymous Sources
Whenever possible you want your sources to speak “on the record.” That means their full name and job title (when relevant) can be used in the news story.
But sometimes sources have important reasons – beyond simple shyness - for not wanting to speak on the record. They will agree to be interviewed, but only if they aren’t named in your story. This is called an anonymous source, and the information they provide is typically known as “off the record.”
When Are Anonymous Sources Used?
Anonymous sources aren’t necessary – and in fact are inappropriate - for the vast majority of stories reporters do.
Let’s say you’re doing a simple person-on-the-street interview story about how local residents feel about high gas prices. If someone you approach doesn’t want to give their name, you should either convince them to speak on the record or simply interview someone else. There’s absolutely no compelling reason to use anonymous sources in these types of stories.
Investigations
But when reporters do investigative reports about malfeasance, corruption or even criminal activity, the stakes can be much higher. Sources may risk being ostracized in their community or even fired from their job if they say something controversial or accusatory. These types of stories often require the use of anonymous sources.
Example
Let’s say you’re investigating allegations that the local mayor has been stealing money from the town treasury. You interview one of the mayor’s top aides, who says the allegations are true. But he’s afraid that if you quote him by name, he’ll be fired. He says he’ll spill the beans about the crooked mayor, but only if you keep his name out of it.
continue...
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
How to Work With Anonymous Sources
Whenever possible you want your sources to speak “on the record.” That means their full name and job title (when relevant) can be used in the news story.
But sometimes sources have important reasons – beyond simple shyness - for not wanting to speak on the record. They will agree to be interviewed, but only if they aren’t named in your story. This is called an anonymous source, and the information they provide is typically known as “off the record.”
When Are Anonymous Sources Used?
Anonymous sources aren’t necessary – and in fact are inappropriate - for the vast majority of stories reporters do.
Let’s say you’re doing a simple person-on-the-street interview story about how local residents feel about high gas prices. If someone you approach doesn’t want to give their name, you should either convince them to speak on the record or simply interview someone else. There’s absolutely no compelling reason to use anonymous sources in these types of stories.
Investigations
But when reporters do investigative reports about malfeasance, corruption or even criminal activity, the stakes can be much higher. Sources may risk being ostracized in their community or even fired from their job if they say something controversial or accusatory. These types of stories often require the use of anonymous sources.
Example
Let’s say you’re investigating allegations that the local mayor has been stealing money from the town treasury. You interview one of the mayor’s top aides, who says the allegations are true. But he’s afraid that if you quote him by name, he’ll be fired. He says he’ll spill the beans about the crooked mayor, but only if you keep his name out of it.
continue...
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Artikel Dunia Kerja : About Careers in Broadcast Journalism
By Michael Hinckley, eHow Contributing Writer
Developing a career as a broadcast journalist takes time, effort, and preparation. Understanding the educational requirements, typical salaries, and job prospects is a good place to start. Broadcast journalism can open doors to many opportunities: Both Oprah and David Letterman got their starts in the field.
Education
Most broadcast journalists major in mass communication of journalism at a college or university. Most employers, even those at relatively small local agencies or companies, are looking for applicants who have at least a Bachelor's (4 year) degree in either of those fields. While in school, the broadcast journalism major will learn about public speaking, economic, sociology, political science, and other fields they will encounter during the course of a career.
Employment
Entry-level jobs in broadcast journalism usually are acquired through local television or radio stations, though increasingly there is a call for similar journalism on the Internet. Broadcast journalists should expect to start off relatively small, with only occasional on-air time covering lighter reports such as "human interest" stories. A small percentage of broadcast journalists (about 11%) are employed part-time or are self-employed "stringers."
Earnings
The average salary range for a broadcast journalist is anywhere between $24,370 and $51,700 a year, but depending upon region, experience, and employment status, the salary may be as low as $19,180 or as much as $73,880 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Types
There are several types of broadcast journalists, each having their own specialty within a news organization. News anchors typically read and interpret the news, conduct in-studio interviews, or moderate round-table discussions on various topics. Sports, science and technology, and weather reporters specialize in the technical jargon, statistics, and inside information of their field. Investigative broadcast journalists engage in fact finding, interviews, and a variety of other activities in order to better understand certain events or people. Finally, radio broadcasters who specialize in a certain field may become expert analysts for their broadcasting corporations.
Expert Insight
Most broadcast journalists can expect frequent moves, particularly early in their careers. It is not unusual for newly hired broadcast journalists to need to find jobs after their current company or station cuts jobs or is consolidated with a larger corporation.
Internet broadcasting can be done from almost any location because of the flexibility of the technology involved and lower cost or overhead involved in an Internet production. For example, the increasing popularity of YouTube allows mainstream broadcasters such as C-Span, Al Jazeera, and CBS to post short news reports.
JOB, JOBS, CAREER
Developing a career as a broadcast journalist takes time, effort, and preparation. Understanding the educational requirements, typical salaries, and job prospects is a good place to start. Broadcast journalism can open doors to many opportunities: Both Oprah and David Letterman got their starts in the field.
Education
Most broadcast journalists major in mass communication of journalism at a college or university. Most employers, even those at relatively small local agencies or companies, are looking for applicants who have at least a Bachelor's (4 year) degree in either of those fields. While in school, the broadcast journalism major will learn about public speaking, economic, sociology, political science, and other fields they will encounter during the course of a career.
Employment
Entry-level jobs in broadcast journalism usually are acquired through local television or radio stations, though increasingly there is a call for similar journalism on the Internet. Broadcast journalists should expect to start off relatively small, with only occasional on-air time covering lighter reports such as "human interest" stories. A small percentage of broadcast journalists (about 11%) are employed part-time or are self-employed "stringers."
Earnings
The average salary range for a broadcast journalist is anywhere between $24,370 and $51,700 a year, but depending upon region, experience, and employment status, the salary may be as low as $19,180 or as much as $73,880 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Types
There are several types of broadcast journalists, each having their own specialty within a news organization. News anchors typically read and interpret the news, conduct in-studio interviews, or moderate round-table discussions on various topics. Sports, science and technology, and weather reporters specialize in the technical jargon, statistics, and inside information of their field. Investigative broadcast journalists engage in fact finding, interviews, and a variety of other activities in order to better understand certain events or people. Finally, radio broadcasters who specialize in a certain field may become expert analysts for their broadcasting corporations.
Expert Insight
Most broadcast journalists can expect frequent moves, particularly early in their careers. It is not unusual for newly hired broadcast journalists to need to find jobs after their current company or station cuts jobs or is consolidated with a larger corporation.
Internet broadcasting can be done from almost any location because of the flexibility of the technology involved and lower cost or overhead involved in an Internet production. For example, the increasing popularity of YouTube allows mainstream broadcasters such as C-Span, Al Jazeera, and CBS to post short news reports.
JOB, JOBS, CAREER
Artikel Dunia Kerja : How to Use a Journalism Degree
A journalism degree offers a number of different paths to the new job seeker. While a journalism major might seem to be equipped only to write and edit news, in truth an education in journalism brings in elements from a number of important, well-paying positions in a variety of industries. Keeping an open mind about applying your journalism degree in the real world will increase your chance of finding a great paying and challenging job.
- Consider your strengths and specialization as a journalism student to understand how to apply your degree. If you specialized in writing and reporting, for example, look at careers like research and copywriting, which require able writers and investigators. If you focused more on newspaper management, on the other hand, broaden your job search to include general corporate management positions in order to find a job that fits your experience and career expectations.
- Take advantage of your academic institution's career resource center. As journalism becomes a more popular major, colleges and universities are learning more about how to help students apply their journalism degrees to successful careers. Take a look at Columbia University's Journalism School career services center for an example of how an academic institution can help find a good job.
- Join a journalism association or organization to broaden your network of contacts. Since most jobs are found through connections, the more people you know in the field the better. Organizations like the Society of Professional Journalists will facilitate connection building with people who can give advice and make introductions.
- Look to specific job centers and services that focus on jobs in the journalism and media sectors. JournalismJobs.com is a great job resource site that contains lots of great job ads. Post your resume on sites like these so that potential employers can find you as well.
Artikel Dunia Kerja : How to Get into Journalism School
By Glyn Sheridan, eHow Contributing Writer
The two types of journalism schools are those that admit students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree and graduate schools of journalism, where students receive either a master’s degree or a doctorate upon completing the coursework. Within the journalism field, you may specialize in news reporting, photojournalism, broadcasting, communications or public relations in addition to business writing and advertising.
The two types of journalism schools are those that admit students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree and graduate schools of journalism, where students receive either a master’s degree or a doctorate upon completing the coursework. Within the journalism field, you may specialize in news reporting, photojournalism, broadcasting, communications or public relations in addition to business writing and advertising.
- Find a journalism school that offers your desired specialty. At the undergraduate level, most journalism schools offer a wide selection of courses within one subject. For instance, if you want to be a news reporter, choose a school that offers a range of writing and style classes that will broaden your skills. You will also benefit from related courses in broadcast journalism.
- Narrow your school choices down to two or three and send for an information packet from each. Although most schools have online brochures and applications, having the materials in hand when you are close to making a final choice allows you to compare and contrast the courses and requirements.
- Write a personal statement or essay to accompany your application. State your desired field of journalistic study and include your previous journalistic accomplishments and future goals. Double and triple check for misspellings and grammatical errors.
- Gather your supporting documents. Even if you apply online, most schools want to see an official copy of your high school or college transcript. The school you previously attended usually must send these directly to the college to which you are applying. Include your resume, letters of recommendation and your best work samples if you have any.
- Complete the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) if you are applying to a graduate school. Because it takes a few weeks for a school to receive the results, schedule your test well in advance of the school’s starting date.
- Find sources of financial aid to help your pay for journalism school. While there are state and federal programs that offer grants and low-interest loans, don’t forget scholarship programs, many of which offer money for winning essays.
- Schedule a time to conduct a phone interview or visit the campus in person and discuss the school’s course offerings and procedures.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Artikel Dunia Kerja Five Things That Are Lost When Newspapers Close
What We Lose When a Paper Disappears
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
This is a tough time for print journalism. For a variety of reasons, newspapers nationwide are either slashing budgets and staff, going bankrupt or even closing down entirely.
Already, some large metropolitan papers - including the Rocky Mountain News and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer- have closed or ended their print operations. Others face the same fate. Some say this is simply a natural progression, that the daily paper is as outdated as the eight-track tape.
The problem is this: There are many things newspapers do that simply can't be replaced. Papers are a unique medium in the news business and can't be easily replicated by TV, radio or online news operations.
Here are five things that are lost when newspapers die.
1. Large News Staffs
In any given city or town, the local newspaper will nearly always have the largest staff of journalists of any news operation around.
Take a city like Philadelphia. It's one of the largest media markets in the country, and as such each of the local TV stations has a staff of several dozen reporters, anchors, technicians, etc.
But compare that to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the city's largest newspaper, which has a staff of several hundred reporters and editors. The Inquirer's newsroom staff dwarfs that of all the city's TV news operations combined. The situation is much the same in smaller cities.
2. Beat Reporters
Because newspapers have large staffs, they're able to have reporters follow "beats" - special areas of coverage. One reporter might follow the police beat while another will cover city hall. Reporters who cover a beat over time gain a better grasp of what the beat is all about, and that makes for better stories.
Local TV news operations are too small to assign reporters to specific beats. TV reporters must cover whatever stories and issues pop up on any given day.
3. Comprehensive & In-Depth Coverage
With more reporters, newspapers are simply able to cover more of what's happening in the community, and do so in greater detail.
If you don't believe me, try this experiment: Read your local paper from front to back on any given day, then watch your local TV news.
Chances are you'll find your TV newscast filled with news about crime, accidents and fires. Such stories make good visuals and are relatively easy to cover with just a few reporters.
Your local newspaper will have those same stories. But it'll also carry articles about many other issues. How are the local public schools doing, for instance? Are property taxes going up in your town? Does the city government have enough money to maintain the parks, fix the potholes in the roads and collect garbage regularly?
Such stories aren't visually exciting and are likely to be ignored by TV news.
4. Investigative Reporting
Another benefit of a large newsroom is the ability to assign certain reporters to investigative projects about things like corrupt politicians or dangerous products. Such stories require weeks or even months of digging, and typically only newspapers can afford to have reporters work on such long-term projects.
5. Journalists Who Aren't Millionaires
Most TV journalists earn far more money than the people at home watching them. This raises the question of whether a highly-paid TV reporter or anchor can really feel empathy for the average person - the factory worker who's lost her job, for instance.
Newspaper reporters, on the other hand, are generally paid the kind of modest salaries that average folk earn. I've written more about this here.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
This is a tough time for print journalism. For a variety of reasons, newspapers nationwide are either slashing budgets and staff, going bankrupt or even closing down entirely.
Already, some large metropolitan papers - including the Rocky Mountain News and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer- have closed or ended their print operations. Others face the same fate. Some say this is simply a natural progression, that the daily paper is as outdated as the eight-track tape.
The problem is this: There are many things newspapers do that simply can't be replaced. Papers are a unique medium in the news business and can't be easily replicated by TV, radio or online news operations.
Here are five things that are lost when newspapers die.
1. Large News Staffs
In any given city or town, the local newspaper will nearly always have the largest staff of journalists of any news operation around.
Take a city like Philadelphia. It's one of the largest media markets in the country, and as such each of the local TV stations has a staff of several dozen reporters, anchors, technicians, etc.
But compare that to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the city's largest newspaper, which has a staff of several hundred reporters and editors. The Inquirer's newsroom staff dwarfs that of all the city's TV news operations combined. The situation is much the same in smaller cities.
2. Beat Reporters
Because newspapers have large staffs, they're able to have reporters follow "beats" - special areas of coverage. One reporter might follow the police beat while another will cover city hall. Reporters who cover a beat over time gain a better grasp of what the beat is all about, and that makes for better stories.
Local TV news operations are too small to assign reporters to specific beats. TV reporters must cover whatever stories and issues pop up on any given day.
3. Comprehensive & In-Depth Coverage
With more reporters, newspapers are simply able to cover more of what's happening in the community, and do so in greater detail.
If you don't believe me, try this experiment: Read your local paper from front to back on any given day, then watch your local TV news.
Chances are you'll find your TV newscast filled with news about crime, accidents and fires. Such stories make good visuals and are relatively easy to cover with just a few reporters.
Your local newspaper will have those same stories. But it'll also carry articles about many other issues. How are the local public schools doing, for instance? Are property taxes going up in your town? Does the city government have enough money to maintain the parks, fix the potholes in the roads and collect garbage regularly?
Such stories aren't visually exciting and are likely to be ignored by TV news.
4. Investigative Reporting
Another benefit of a large newsroom is the ability to assign certain reporters to investigative projects about things like corrupt politicians or dangerous products. Such stories require weeks or even months of digging, and typically only newspapers can afford to have reporters work on such long-term projects.
5. Journalists Who Aren't Millionaires
Most TV journalists earn far more money than the people at home watching them. This raises the question of whether a highly-paid TV reporter or anchor can really feel empathy for the average person - the factory worker who's lost her job, for instance.
Newspaper reporters, on the other hand, are generally paid the kind of modest salaries that average folk earn. I've written more about this here.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Artikel Dunia Kerja Working at Mid-Sized Daily Newspapers
Keeping Busy Covering a Beat
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
Once you've finished college and perhaps worked on a weekly or small daily paper, the next step up would be a job at a medium-sized daily, one with a circulation of anywhere from 50,000 to 150,000. Such papers are typically found in smaller cities around the country. Reporting at a medium-sized daily is different from working at a weekly or small daily in several ways.
Covering a Beat
Very small papers have very small staffs, so the journalists who work there tend to do a bit of everything. Reporters may cover the cops, courts and city hall all at the same time, while also taking pictures and maybe even laying out the paper.
But medium-sized papers have larger staffs, and so the tasks become more specialized. Reporters tend to work specific beats, or areas of coverage. This allows those reporters to build up a certain amount of expertise as they get the know the beat over time. Typical beats include the police, courts, local schools, business and city hall.
The larger staff size also means that reporters usually just report and write. Photography and layout are left to those who are better trained in those skills.
A Typical Day
A beat reporter often starts her day by checking in with the sources on her beat. For instance, a police reporter might start her day at the police precinct, seeing what interesting crimes have happened overnight and talking to the cops to see what else is going on.
Likewise, a court reporter might check the docket of cases being heard in the courthouse that day to see which ones might be interesting to cover.
Once the reporter knows what stories she plans to cover that day, she checks in with her editor to let him know. The editor may approve her assignment choices or have something else he wants her to work on.
After that the reporter gets started on her stories. In the days before newspapers had websites, story deadlines for morning papers were often in the late afternoon or early evening, meaning a reporter might have most of a day to report and write an article.
But with most papers now having websites, newspaper reporters must produce online stories earlier in the day. So our police reporter might bang out an early version of her story for her paper's website, then write a longer, more in-depth version later on for the paper's print version.
Breaking News
If a big news story suddenly breaks, all the planning for the day goes out the window. Big breaking news - such as a plane crash, a tornado or a shooting, for example - take top priority. Everything else is set aside when a big story erupts.
A Balance of Hard-News and Features
Medium-sized dailies have lots of reporters covering everything from politics to the arts to the sports beat. But even hard-news reporters typically must produce a mix of hard-news deadline stories and longer features.
Let's return to our police reporter. Her week starts with the production of lots of relatively deadline-news stories. But by late in the week she may be asked to produce a longer feature for the Sunday paper (Sunday papers are the biggest of the week and are often filled with long, in-depth stories.) So she might write a profile of a local police officer, or do a story about the rise in illegal drug use in a particular community.
The point is, reporters today must be able to produce both deadline news stories and longer features, no matter what beat they cover. And they must be able to write quickly, because the paper's website always needs new content.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
Once you've finished college and perhaps worked on a weekly or small daily paper, the next step up would be a job at a medium-sized daily, one with a circulation of anywhere from 50,000 to 150,000. Such papers are typically found in smaller cities around the country. Reporting at a medium-sized daily is different from working at a weekly or small daily in several ways.
Covering a Beat
Very small papers have very small staffs, so the journalists who work there tend to do a bit of everything. Reporters may cover the cops, courts and city hall all at the same time, while also taking pictures and maybe even laying out the paper.
But medium-sized papers have larger staffs, and so the tasks become more specialized. Reporters tend to work specific beats, or areas of coverage. This allows those reporters to build up a certain amount of expertise as they get the know the beat over time. Typical beats include the police, courts, local schools, business and city hall.
The larger staff size also means that reporters usually just report and write. Photography and layout are left to those who are better trained in those skills.
A Typical Day
A beat reporter often starts her day by checking in with the sources on her beat. For instance, a police reporter might start her day at the police precinct, seeing what interesting crimes have happened overnight and talking to the cops to see what else is going on.
Likewise, a court reporter might check the docket of cases being heard in the courthouse that day to see which ones might be interesting to cover.
Once the reporter knows what stories she plans to cover that day, she checks in with her editor to let him know. The editor may approve her assignment choices or have something else he wants her to work on.
After that the reporter gets started on her stories. In the days before newspapers had websites, story deadlines for morning papers were often in the late afternoon or early evening, meaning a reporter might have most of a day to report and write an article.
But with most papers now having websites, newspaper reporters must produce online stories earlier in the day. So our police reporter might bang out an early version of her story for her paper's website, then write a longer, more in-depth version later on for the paper's print version.
Breaking News
If a big news story suddenly breaks, all the planning for the day goes out the window. Big breaking news - such as a plane crash, a tornado or a shooting, for example - take top priority. Everything else is set aside when a big story erupts.
A Balance of Hard-News and Features
Medium-sized dailies have lots of reporters covering everything from politics to the arts to the sports beat. But even hard-news reporters typically must produce a mix of hard-news deadline stories and longer features.
Let's return to our police reporter. Her week starts with the production of lots of relatively deadline-news stories. But by late in the week she may be asked to produce a longer feature for the Sunday paper (Sunday papers are the biggest of the week and are often filled with long, in-depth stories.) So she might write a profile of a local police officer, or do a story about the rise in illegal drug use in a particular community.
The point is, reporters today must be able to produce both deadline news stories and longer features, no matter what beat they cover. And they must be able to write quickly, because the paper's website always needs new content.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Friday, July 9, 2010
Artikel Dunia Kerja: What Is Citizen Journalism?
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
What Is Citizen Journalism?
Put very simply, citizen journalism is when private individuals do essentially what professional reporters do – report information. That information can take many forms, from a podcast editorial to a report about a city council meeting on a blog. It can include text, pictures, audio and video. But it’s basically all about communicating information of some kind.
The other main feature of citizen journalism is that it’s usually found online. In fact, the emergence of the Internet – with blogs, podcasts, streaming video and other Web-related innovations – is what has made citizen journalism possible.
The Internet gave average people the ability to transmit information globally. That was a power once reserved for only the very largest media corporations and news agencies.
Citizen journalism can take many forms. Steve Outing of Poynter.org and others have outlined many different types of citizen journalism. Below I've condensed Outing's "layers" of citizen journalism and placed them into two main categories: semi-independent and fully independent.
Semi-Independent Citizen Journalism
This involves citizens contributing, in one form or another, to existing professional news sites. Some examples:
Independent Citizen Journalism
This involves citizen journalists working in ways that are fully independent of traditional, professional news outlets.
What Is Citizen Journalism?
Put very simply, citizen journalism is when private individuals do essentially what professional reporters do – report information. That information can take many forms, from a podcast editorial to a report about a city council meeting on a blog. It can include text, pictures, audio and video. But it’s basically all about communicating information of some kind.
The other main feature of citizen journalism is that it’s usually found online. In fact, the emergence of the Internet – with blogs, podcasts, streaming video and other Web-related innovations – is what has made citizen journalism possible.
The Internet gave average people the ability to transmit information globally. That was a power once reserved for only the very largest media corporations and news agencies.
Citizen journalism can take many forms. Steve Outing of Poynter.org and others have outlined many different types of citizen journalism. Below I've condensed Outing's "layers" of citizen journalism and placed them into two main categories: semi-independent and fully independent.
Semi-Independent Citizen Journalism
This involves citizens contributing, in one form or another, to existing professional news sites. Some examples:
- Readers posting their comments alongside stories done by professional reporters - essentially a 21st-century version of the letter to the editor. A growing number of news websites allow readers to post comments. In an effort to prevent obscene or objectionable messages, many websites require that readers register in order to post.
- Readers adding their information to articles done by professional journalists. For instance, a reporter may do an article about disparities in gas prices around town. When the story appears online, readers can post information about gas prices in areas not covered in the original story, and even offer tips on where to buy cheaper gas.
- Readers actively working with professional reporters in putting together a story. A reporter might ask that readers with expertise in a particular area send him or her information on that topic, or even do some of their own reporting. That information is then incorporated into the final story.
- Reader blogs that are incorporated into professional news websites. That can includes blogs in which readers critique how the news organization is performing.
Independent Citizen Journalism
This involves citizen journalists working in ways that are fully independent of traditional, professional news outlets.
- Blogs in which individuals can report on events in their communities or offer commentary on the issues of the day.
- Websites run by an individual or a group of people that report on news events in the local community. Some have editors and screen content, others do not. Some even have print editions.
- Hybrid sites in which professional and citizen journalists work together.
Artikel Dunia Kerja: What is Web Journalism?
Blogs, Citizen Journalism Sites, and More
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
With the decline of newspapers there's been a lot of talk about web journalism being the future of the news business. But what exactly do we mean by web journalism?
Web journalism actually encompasses a whole range of different kinds of sites, including:
Newspaper Websites
Websites run by newspapers are basically extensions of the papers themselves. As such they can provide a wide range of articles in a variety of areas - news, sports, business, the arts, etc. - written by their staff of professional reporters.
In some cases, newspapers shut down their printing presses but continue to operate their websites (the Seattle Post-Intelligencer is one example.) Often, however, when the presses stop running the news staff is gutted, leaving only a bare-bones newsroom behind.
Independent News Websites
These sites, often found in larger cities, tend to specialize in hard-news coverage of municipal government, city agencies, law enforcement and schools. Some of them are known for their hard-hitting investigative reporting. Their content is typically produced by small staffs of full-time reporters and freelancers.
Many of these independent news sites are nonprofits funded by a mix of ad revenue and contributions from donors and foundations.
Hyper-Local News Sites
These sites specialize in coverage of small, specific communities, right down to the individual neighborhood. As the name implies, the coverage tends to focus on extremely localized events: the police blotter, the agenda of the town board meeting, the performance of a school play.
Hyper-local sites can be independent or run by newspapers as extensions of their websites. Their content is typically produced by local freelance writers and bloggers.
Citizen Journalism Sites
Citizen journalism sites run a wide gamut. Some are basically just online platforms where people can post video reports or pictures on virtually any subject. Others focus on a specific geographic area and provide more targeted, specific coverage.
Content for citizen journalism sites is usually provided by a loose affiliation of writers, bloggers and video reporters with varying degrees of journalism experience. Some citizen journalism sites are edited; others are not.
Blogs
Blogs are known primarily for being platforms for delivering opinion and commentary, but many actually do real reporting as well. Bloggers have varying degrees of journalism experience.
JOB, JOBS, CAREER
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
With the decline of newspapers there's been a lot of talk about web journalism being the future of the news business. But what exactly do we mean by web journalism?
Web journalism actually encompasses a whole range of different kinds of sites, including:
Newspaper Websites
Websites run by newspapers are basically extensions of the papers themselves. As such they can provide a wide range of articles in a variety of areas - news, sports, business, the arts, etc. - written by their staff of professional reporters.
In some cases, newspapers shut down their printing presses but continue to operate their websites (the Seattle Post-Intelligencer is one example.) Often, however, when the presses stop running the news staff is gutted, leaving only a bare-bones newsroom behind.
Independent News Websites
These sites, often found in larger cities, tend to specialize in hard-news coverage of municipal government, city agencies, law enforcement and schools. Some of them are known for their hard-hitting investigative reporting. Their content is typically produced by small staffs of full-time reporters and freelancers.
Many of these independent news sites are nonprofits funded by a mix of ad revenue and contributions from donors and foundations.
Hyper-Local News Sites
These sites specialize in coverage of small, specific communities, right down to the individual neighborhood. As the name implies, the coverage tends to focus on extremely localized events: the police blotter, the agenda of the town board meeting, the performance of a school play.
Hyper-local sites can be independent or run by newspapers as extensions of their websites. Their content is typically produced by local freelance writers and bloggers.
Citizen Journalism Sites
Citizen journalism sites run a wide gamut. Some are basically just online platforms where people can post video reports or pictures on virtually any subject. Others focus on a specific geographic area and provide more targeted, specific coverage.
Content for citizen journalism sites is usually provided by a loose affiliation of writers, bloggers and video reporters with varying degrees of journalism experience. Some citizen journalism sites are edited; others are not.
Blogs
Blogs are known primarily for being platforms for delivering opinion and commentary, but many actually do real reporting as well. Bloggers have varying degrees of journalism experience.
JOB, JOBS, CAREER
Artikel Dunia Kerja: Tips for Taking Good Notes
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
Even in an age of digital voice recorders, a reporter’s notebook and pen are still necessary tools for print and online journalists. Voice recorders are great for capturing every quote accurately, but transcribing interviews from them can often take too long, especially when you’re on a tight deadline. (Read more about voice recorders vs. notebooks here.)
Still, many beginning reporters complain that with a notepad and pen they can never take down everything a source says in an interview, and they worry about writing fast enough in order to get quotes exactly right. So here are some tips for taking good notes.
Be Thorough – But Not Stenographic
You always want to take the most thorough notes possible. But remember, you’re not a stenographer. You don’t have to take down absolutely everything a source says. Keep in mind that you’re probably not going to use everything they say in your story. So don’t worry if you miss a few things here and there.
Jot Down the ‘Good’ Quotes
Watch an experienced reporter doing an interview, and you’ll probably notice that she isn’t constantly scribbling notes. That’s because seasoned reporters learn to listen for the “good quotes” – the ones they’re likely to use - and not worry about the rest. (You can read more here about what constitutes a “good quote.”) The more interviews you do, the better you’ll get at writing down the best quotes, and at filtering out the rest.
Be Accurate - But Don’t Sweat Every Word
You always want to be as accurate as possible when taking notes. But don’t worry if you miss a “the,” “and,” “but” or “also” here and there. No one expects you to get every quote exactly right, word-for-word, especially when you’re on a tight deadline, doing interviews at the scene of a breaking news event.
It IS important to be accurate get the meaning of what someone says. So if they say, “I hate the new law,” you certainly don’t want to quote them as saying they love it.
Also, when writing your story, don’t be afraid to paraphrase (put in your own words) something a source says if you’re not sure you got the quote exactly right.
Repeat That, Please
If an interview subject talks fast or if you think you misheard something they said, don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat it. This can also be a good rule of thumb if a source says something especially provocative or controversial. “Let me get this straight – are you saying that…” is something reporters are often heard to say during interviews.
Highlight the Good Stuff
Once the interview is done, go back over your notes and use a checkmark to highlight the main points and quotes that you’re most likely to use. Do this right after the interview when your notes are still fresh.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Even in an age of digital voice recorders, a reporter’s notebook and pen are still necessary tools for print and online journalists. Voice recorders are great for capturing every quote accurately, but transcribing interviews from them can often take too long, especially when you’re on a tight deadline. (Read more about voice recorders vs. notebooks here.)
Still, many beginning reporters complain that with a notepad and pen they can never take down everything a source says in an interview, and they worry about writing fast enough in order to get quotes exactly right. So here are some tips for taking good notes.
Be Thorough – But Not Stenographic
You always want to take the most thorough notes possible. But remember, you’re not a stenographer. You don’t have to take down absolutely everything a source says. Keep in mind that you’re probably not going to use everything they say in your story. So don’t worry if you miss a few things here and there.
Jot Down the ‘Good’ Quotes
Watch an experienced reporter doing an interview, and you’ll probably notice that she isn’t constantly scribbling notes. That’s because seasoned reporters learn to listen for the “good quotes” – the ones they’re likely to use - and not worry about the rest. (You can read more here about what constitutes a “good quote.”) The more interviews you do, the better you’ll get at writing down the best quotes, and at filtering out the rest.
Be Accurate - But Don’t Sweat Every Word
You always want to be as accurate as possible when taking notes. But don’t worry if you miss a “the,” “and,” “but” or “also” here and there. No one expects you to get every quote exactly right, word-for-word, especially when you’re on a tight deadline, doing interviews at the scene of a breaking news event.
It IS important to be accurate get the meaning of what someone says. So if they say, “I hate the new law,” you certainly don’t want to quote them as saying they love it.
Also, when writing your story, don’t be afraid to paraphrase (put in your own words) something a source says if you’re not sure you got the quote exactly right.
Repeat That, Please
If an interview subject talks fast or if you think you misheard something they said, don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat it. This can also be a good rule of thumb if a source says something especially provocative or controversial. “Let me get this straight – are you saying that…” is something reporters are often heard to say during interviews.
Highlight the Good Stuff
Once the interview is done, go back over your notes and use a checkmark to highlight the main points and quotes that you’re most likely to use. Do this right after the interview when your notes are still fresh.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Getting "Good" Quotes For News Stories
What To Quote, What Not To Quote
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
So you’ve done a long interview with a source, you have pages of notes, and you’re ready to write. But chances are you’ll only be able to fit a few quotes from that lengthy interview into your article. Which ones should you use? Reporters often talk about using only “good” quotes for their stories, but what does this mean?
What Is a Good Quote?
Broadly speaking, a good quote is when someone says something interesting, and says it in an interesting way.
Look at the following two examples:
“We will use U.S. military force in an appropriate and decisive manner.”
“When I take action, I’m not going to fire a $2 million missile at a $10 empty tent and hit a camel in the butt. It’s going to be decisive.”
Which is the better quote? Let’s consider this by asking a broader question: What Should a Good Quote Do?
A Good Quote Should...
Grab The Reader’s Attention
Using our two examples, it’s clear the first quote is dry and academic-sounding. It sounds like a sentence taken from a particularly dull research paper or dissertation. The second quote, on the other hand, is colorful and even funny. It forces the reader to sit up and take notice.
Evoke Images
A good quote, like good writing, evokes images in the reader’s mind. Using our two examples, it’s clear the first quote evokes nothing. But the second quote evokes a bizarre image that’s bound to stick in the reader’s brain – a camel being hit in the posterior with an expensive, high-tech missile.
Convey a Sense of The Speaker’s Personality
Our first quote leaves no impression of who the speaker might be. Indeed, it sounds more like a scripted line from an anonymous Pentagon press release.
The second quote, however, gives the reader a feel for the personality of the speaker – in this case, President George Bush. The reader gets a sense of both Bush’s determination and his penchant for off-the-cuff humor.
Convey Regional Differences in Speech
Looking again at our first quote, can you discern where the speaker was raised? Of course not. But one could argue that Bush’s quote, with its salty humor and coarse imagery, contains some of the color of his Texas upbringing.
A reporter I worked with once covered a tornado in the Deep South. He interviewed victims of the twister and in his story contained a quote that included the phrase, “I tell you what.” That’s a phrase you’re only likely to hear in the South, and by putting it in his story my colleague gave readers a feel for the region and the people affected by the storm.
A good reporter could do the same thing in any area with distinctive patterns of speech, from the South Bronx to the upper Midwest to East Los Angeles.
Given everything we’ve discussed, it seems clear the second of our two examples is by far the better quote.
So What Makes a Bad Quote?
Unclear Speech
Anytime someone says something in an unclear or unintelligible fashion, chances are you’re not going to use that as a quote. In such cases, if the information contained in the quote is important to your story, paraphrase it – put it into your own words.
In fact, reporters often must paraphrase much of what they gather in interviews, because many people simply don’t speak very clearly. People don’t craft their speech the way a writer crafts a sentence.
Basic Factual Data
If you’re interviewing a source who’s giving you reams of data, such as numbers or statistics, that kind of information should be paraphrased instead of quoted. There’s simply no point in quoting, for instance, the CEO who tells you his company’s revenues increased 3 percent in the second quarter, 5 percent in the third quarter and so on. It may be important information for your story, but it’s boring as a quote.
Profane or Offensive Speech
Most mainstream news organizations have policies banning or limiting the use of vulgar or offensive speech in news stories. So, for example, if a source you’re interviewing starts swearing profusely, or uttering racial slurs, you’re probably not going to be able to quote them.
An exception to that rule might be if the profane or offensive speech serves some larger purpose in your story. For instance, if you’re profiling your town’s mayor, and he has a reputation for salty language, you might use part of a profane quote in your story to show that, indeed, the man likes to cuss.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
So you’ve done a long interview with a source, you have pages of notes, and you’re ready to write. But chances are you’ll only be able to fit a few quotes from that lengthy interview into your article. Which ones should you use? Reporters often talk about using only “good” quotes for their stories, but what does this mean?
What Is a Good Quote?
Broadly speaking, a good quote is when someone says something interesting, and says it in an interesting way.
Look at the following two examples:
“We will use U.S. military force in an appropriate and decisive manner.”
“When I take action, I’m not going to fire a $2 million missile at a $10 empty tent and hit a camel in the butt. It’s going to be decisive.”
Which is the better quote? Let’s consider this by asking a broader question: What Should a Good Quote Do?
A Good Quote Should...
Grab The Reader’s Attention
Using our two examples, it’s clear the first quote is dry and academic-sounding. It sounds like a sentence taken from a particularly dull research paper or dissertation. The second quote, on the other hand, is colorful and even funny. It forces the reader to sit up and take notice.
Evoke Images
A good quote, like good writing, evokes images in the reader’s mind. Using our two examples, it’s clear the first quote evokes nothing. But the second quote evokes a bizarre image that’s bound to stick in the reader’s brain – a camel being hit in the posterior with an expensive, high-tech missile.
Convey a Sense of The Speaker’s Personality
Our first quote leaves no impression of who the speaker might be. Indeed, it sounds more like a scripted line from an anonymous Pentagon press release.
The second quote, however, gives the reader a feel for the personality of the speaker – in this case, President George Bush. The reader gets a sense of both Bush’s determination and his penchant for off-the-cuff humor.
Convey Regional Differences in Speech
Looking again at our first quote, can you discern where the speaker was raised? Of course not. But one could argue that Bush’s quote, with its salty humor and coarse imagery, contains some of the color of his Texas upbringing.
A reporter I worked with once covered a tornado in the Deep South. He interviewed victims of the twister and in his story contained a quote that included the phrase, “I tell you what.” That’s a phrase you’re only likely to hear in the South, and by putting it in his story my colleague gave readers a feel for the region and the people affected by the storm.
A good reporter could do the same thing in any area with distinctive patterns of speech, from the South Bronx to the upper Midwest to East Los Angeles.
Given everything we’ve discussed, it seems clear the second of our two examples is by far the better quote.
So What Makes a Bad Quote?
Unclear Speech
Anytime someone says something in an unclear or unintelligible fashion, chances are you’re not going to use that as a quote. In such cases, if the information contained in the quote is important to your story, paraphrase it – put it into your own words.
In fact, reporters often must paraphrase much of what they gather in interviews, because many people simply don’t speak very clearly. People don’t craft their speech the way a writer crafts a sentence.
Basic Factual Data
If you’re interviewing a source who’s giving you reams of data, such as numbers or statistics, that kind of information should be paraphrased instead of quoted. There’s simply no point in quoting, for instance, the CEO who tells you his company’s revenues increased 3 percent in the second quarter, 5 percent in the third quarter and so on. It may be important information for your story, but it’s boring as a quote.
Profane or Offensive Speech
Most mainstream news organizations have policies banning or limiting the use of vulgar or offensive speech in news stories. So, for example, if a source you’re interviewing starts swearing profusely, or uttering racial slurs, you’re probably not going to be able to quote them.
An exception to that rule might be if the profane or offensive speech serves some larger purpose in your story. For instance, if you’re profiling your town’s mayor, and he has a reputation for salty language, you might use part of a profane quote in your story to show that, indeed, the man likes to cuss.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
Artikel Dunia Kerja: Make the Most of Your Journalism Internship
Seven Tips to Help You Impress Your Editor and Get Great Clips
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
So you've landed an internship for the summer and you want to make the most of it. The key things to get from an internship are solid experience, great clips and rave references. Here are seven tips that will help you accomplish that:
Work Hard
Sounds obvious, but there's no more surefire way to impress your editor than through good old-fashioned hard work. Arrive early, stay late and in between work your butt off. Remember, most news outlets are short-staffed in the summer, so a hard-working intern can quickly establish him or herself as a valuable part of the team.
Do the Lousy Jobs
Want to endear yourself to the rest of the newsroom? Volunteer to do the jobs no one else wants. A zoning board meeting? You'll take it! A sewerage commission hearing? You're on it! Do enough scut work and your editor will be more likely to throw a great story assignment your way.
Show What You Can Do
Sure you're still a student, but chances are you've already discovered the things you're good at. So take every opportunity to show off your strengths. Do you excel at banging out breaking news stories on deadline? Volunteer to cover the late-breaking house fire. Are you good at producing well-written features? Crank out a few of those, even if it means doing them on the side, on evenings or weekends.
Ask Questions
No one expects a newby intern to know everything about the news business, so if there are things you really don't understand about what's happening in the newsroom, ask. But don't ask silly questions just for the sake of looking interested; ask about the things you just don't get.
Listen to the Answers
Again, sounds obvious, but too many interns ask questions and ignore the answers, then have to ask the same question 10 minutes later. If you want to alienate your editor, that's the way to do it.
Learn From Your Mistakes
Chances are at least once hour your internship you're going to do something wrong. That's part of the learning process. But the key is to learn from your screw-ups so that you never - I repeat never - make the same mistake twice.
Exude Some Good Attitude
Journalism is a collaborative effort. People in the newsroom may not all be the best of friends, but they have to be able to work together. So when you walk into the newsroom show enthusiasm for your work and some friendliness toward your co-workers. Be someone other people want to be around, not someone they want to avoid. And no whining.
JOB, JOBS, CAREER
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide
So you've landed an internship for the summer and you want to make the most of it. The key things to get from an internship are solid experience, great clips and rave references. Here are seven tips that will help you accomplish that:
Work Hard
Sounds obvious, but there's no more surefire way to impress your editor than through good old-fashioned hard work. Arrive early, stay late and in between work your butt off. Remember, most news outlets are short-staffed in the summer, so a hard-working intern can quickly establish him or herself as a valuable part of the team.
Do the Lousy Jobs
Want to endear yourself to the rest of the newsroom? Volunteer to do the jobs no one else wants. A zoning board meeting? You'll take it! A sewerage commission hearing? You're on it! Do enough scut work and your editor will be more likely to throw a great story assignment your way.
Show What You Can Do
Sure you're still a student, but chances are you've already discovered the things you're good at. So take every opportunity to show off your strengths. Do you excel at banging out breaking news stories on deadline? Volunteer to cover the late-breaking house fire. Are you good at producing well-written features? Crank out a few of those, even if it means doing them on the side, on evenings or weekends.
Ask Questions
No one expects a newby intern to know everything about the news business, so if there are things you really don't understand about what's happening in the newsroom, ask. But don't ask silly questions just for the sake of looking interested; ask about the things you just don't get.
Listen to the Answers
Again, sounds obvious, but too many interns ask questions and ignore the answers, then have to ask the same question 10 minutes later. If you want to alienate your editor, that's the way to do it.
Learn From Your Mistakes
Chances are at least once hour your internship you're going to do something wrong. That's part of the learning process. But the key is to learn from your screw-ups so that you never - I repeat never - make the same mistake twice.
Exude Some Good Attitude
Journalism is a collaborative effort. People in the newsroom may not all be the best of friends, but they have to be able to work together. So when you walk into the newsroom show enthusiasm for your work and some friendliness toward your co-workers. Be someone other people want to be around, not someone they want to avoid. And no whining.
JOB, JOBS, CAREER
Five Ways You Can Use Your Blog As a Reporting Tool
By Tony Rogers, About.com Guide to Journalism
A blog is an obvious way to showcase your new articles, posts and videos. But it can also be used as a reporting tool for developing story ideas and gathering information. Here's how:
1. Read the Comments: Start the process by seeing what your readers think of the news reports you're posting. Are you covering the issues they're interested in? Are you missing something?
2. Establish a Dialog: Get a conversation going on your blog about what your readers want. Actively seek out their opinions about what stories you should be covering in your community.
3. Develop Story Ideas: From the blog comments and conversations, develop solid story ideas that you can pursue. As you begin your reporting, get your readers' input on what angle or approach you might take on a particular story.
4. Find Sources: Use your blog to find people you can interview for your news stories, posts or videos. Remember, sources are usually a combination of experts and average folks.
For example, let's say a developer wants to build a new mall in your community but environmentalists worry it will damage a local wildlife habitat. You can interview an expert on the subject - an environmentalist - as well as local residents who live in the area. So put out the word on your blog that you want to interview people about the mall proposal.
5. Get More Feedback: After posting your report on your blog, get more feedback from your readers. Did your story cover all the bases? Are there more angles still to be covered? Is there a followup story that can be done? Ask your readers these questions, then use their thoughts to come up with still more story ideas.
JOB, JOBS, CAREER
A blog is an obvious way to showcase your new articles, posts and videos. But it can also be used as a reporting tool for developing story ideas and gathering information. Here's how:
1. Read the Comments: Start the process by seeing what your readers think of the news reports you're posting. Are you covering the issues they're interested in? Are you missing something?
2. Establish a Dialog: Get a conversation going on your blog about what your readers want. Actively seek out their opinions about what stories you should be covering in your community.
3. Develop Story Ideas: From the blog comments and conversations, develop solid story ideas that you can pursue. As you begin your reporting, get your readers' input on what angle or approach you might take on a particular story.
4. Find Sources: Use your blog to find people you can interview for your news stories, posts or videos. Remember, sources are usually a combination of experts and average folks.
For example, let's say a developer wants to build a new mall in your community but environmentalists worry it will damage a local wildlife habitat. You can interview an expert on the subject - an environmentalist - as well as local residents who live in the area. So put out the word on your blog that you want to interview people about the mall proposal.
5. Get More Feedback: After posting your report on your blog, get more feedback from your readers. Did your story cover all the bases? Are there more angles still to be covered? Is there a followup story that can be done? Ask your readers these questions, then use their thoughts to come up with still more story ideas.
JOB, JOBS, CAREER
Make the Most of Your Journalism Internship
To Attract Attention, You have to Show Off
From C.J. Hayden
Recently, a client of mine complained, "I'm really good at what I do. I shouldn't have to market myself." In fact, he is quite good at his profession, but the problem is that not enough prospective clients know about him. Like many professionals, he is reluctant to talk about his accomplishments. "It feels like bragging," he says. "Doesn't it make me seem unprofessional?"
If thoughts like these often cross your mind, ask yourself this -- who are the biggest names in your profession? In your line of work, who might be considered unquestioned experts, those with maximum credibility? Now, how did you get to know about those people's work? Did you read an article or book they had written, hear them interviewed, learn about them on the web? Or perhaps you were told about them by others who had heard them speak or read their words.
The point is that these well-known people became well-known because they showcased themselves, usually in multiple ways. They shared stories, examples, and ideas about the work they had been doing with a wider audience than just their friends and family. You know about their work because they showed it off. And I'll bet it never occurred to you to call them unprofessional for doing it.
Showing off your work doesn't have to sound like, "Ta da! Aren't I great?" It doesn't have to contain even a hint of bragging. There are a host of very dignified and appropriate ways to let a wider audience know how good you are without ever saying so. Here are a few you might try.
1. Writing articles - Putting your expertise in writing and sharing it with publications your target audience reads is a powerful -- and very professional -- way to let more people know about your unique talents. Submit your articles to both print publications and web sites that serve your niche and watch your visibility grow.
2. Public speaking - Appearing as a speaker allows you to broadcast your expertise with three different audiences -- the people who attend your talk, the people who are invited by the sponsoring organization but can't attend, and the people you tell about it before and after. If standing in front of a room makes you too nervous, serve on a panel of experts instead. You'll get to sit behind a table and speak from notes.
3. Media interviews - Being interviewed by magazines, newspapers, or on radio and television can spread the word quickly about your capabilities. Landing interviews is not that hard to do if you remember to start small. Begin by approaching easy targets like association newsletters, neighborhood newspapers, and local cable programs or talk radio.
4. Telling stories - One of the secrets to effective articles, talks, and interviews is to tell stories about your clients. When you describe their challenges and accomplishments, you reveal the value of your role in helping them without having to boast about it. You can use the same technique in a client presentation to boost your credibility without being arrogant.
5. Testimonials - Whenever you do a good job for a client, ask them to write you a simple thank you note describing what you did to make them happy. Then make their words available on your web site, brochure, or other marketing materials. Let them tell others about your value, and you won't have to say it yourself.
6. Building a portfolio - It's not just artists that should capture their best work to show off in a portfolio. You can collect photos, examples, and other evidence of your accomplishments and display them on your web site, in a marketing kit, or with a PowerPoint presentation. You don't have to sell people on your abilities when they are seeing for themselves what you can do.
7. Creating products - Packaging your work into merchandise that prospective clients can take home and sample gives them a compelling way to discover your real value. Products like ebooks, white papers, and audio recordings allow you to showcase your expertise and increase your credibility. They can often be advertised more widely than your services can, giving you another avenue for getting your name known.
Pick just one of these ideas to pursue and make a plan to showcase what you can do for a wider audience. If you truly want to spend less effort on marketing yourself, start letting your prospective clients know how good you really are.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
From C.J. Hayden
Recently, a client of mine complained, "I'm really good at what I do. I shouldn't have to market myself." In fact, he is quite good at his profession, but the problem is that not enough prospective clients know about him. Like many professionals, he is reluctant to talk about his accomplishments. "It feels like bragging," he says. "Doesn't it make me seem unprofessional?"
If thoughts like these often cross your mind, ask yourself this -- who are the biggest names in your profession? In your line of work, who might be considered unquestioned experts, those with maximum credibility? Now, how did you get to know about those people's work? Did you read an article or book they had written, hear them interviewed, learn about them on the web? Or perhaps you were told about them by others who had heard them speak or read their words.
The point is that these well-known people became well-known because they showcased themselves, usually in multiple ways. They shared stories, examples, and ideas about the work they had been doing with a wider audience than just their friends and family. You know about their work because they showed it off. And I'll bet it never occurred to you to call them unprofessional for doing it.
Showing off your work doesn't have to sound like, "Ta da! Aren't I great?" It doesn't have to contain even a hint of bragging. There are a host of very dignified and appropriate ways to let a wider audience know how good you are without ever saying so. Here are a few you might try.
1. Writing articles - Putting your expertise in writing and sharing it with publications your target audience reads is a powerful -- and very professional -- way to let more people know about your unique talents. Submit your articles to both print publications and web sites that serve your niche and watch your visibility grow.
2. Public speaking - Appearing as a speaker allows you to broadcast your expertise with three different audiences -- the people who attend your talk, the people who are invited by the sponsoring organization but can't attend, and the people you tell about it before and after. If standing in front of a room makes you too nervous, serve on a panel of experts instead. You'll get to sit behind a table and speak from notes.
3. Media interviews - Being interviewed by magazines, newspapers, or on radio and television can spread the word quickly about your capabilities. Landing interviews is not that hard to do if you remember to start small. Begin by approaching easy targets like association newsletters, neighborhood newspapers, and local cable programs or talk radio.
4. Telling stories - One of the secrets to effective articles, talks, and interviews is to tell stories about your clients. When you describe their challenges and accomplishments, you reveal the value of your role in helping them without having to boast about it. You can use the same technique in a client presentation to boost your credibility without being arrogant.
5. Testimonials - Whenever you do a good job for a client, ask them to write you a simple thank you note describing what you did to make them happy. Then make their words available on your web site, brochure, or other marketing materials. Let them tell others about your value, and you won't have to say it yourself.
6. Building a portfolio - It's not just artists that should capture their best work to show off in a portfolio. You can collect photos, examples, and other evidence of your accomplishments and display them on your web site, in a marketing kit, or with a PowerPoint presentation. You don't have to sell people on your abilities when they are seeing for themselves what you can do.
7. Creating products - Packaging your work into merchandise that prospective clients can take home and sample gives them a compelling way to discover your real value. Products like ebooks, white papers, and audio recordings allow you to showcase your expertise and increase your credibility. They can often be advertised more widely than your services can, giving you another avenue for getting your name known.
Pick just one of these ideas to pursue and make a plan to showcase what you can do for a wider audience. If you truly want to spend less effort on marketing yourself, start letting your prospective clients know how good you really are.
JOB, JOBS, EMPLOYMENT
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