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I have a question about something I'm sure many reporters and editors, no matter how small or big the news organization, have all probably dealt with.

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How do you deal with angry sources -- in particular, being caught in the crossfire of public relations mumbo-jumbo and political battles?

Obviously, it's all in being a reporter, but in my time reporting over the last few years in school newspapers and internships, I've definitely dealt with some horrible backlash over matters that aren't even critical stories. I assume reporters just get a tougher skin and more savvy as they get more experience. But, do you have any advice for us inexperienced folks on the "best way" to handle those situations where you get caught in the crossfire and don't want to look like a weak or inadequate reporter to your editors?

C.

It's all part of the territory.

First, let's remember that every story is critical to someone, even if it seems to be routine. Also, understand that as an intern or new reporter, you will walk into situations that carry a lot of baggage.

Joe Grimm

A good reporter who gets to develop and hold a beat for a longer period has more time to establish a reputation for accuracy and fairness, and can overcome some history.

As a new reporter encountering a hostile source, try this:

• Ask the source to fill you in on the background. Listen. Ask for clarification. Do not defend.
  
• Explain, briefly, your desire to understand and to be accurate and thorough.
  
• Spend enough time so that you and the source can know each other as individuals, rather than as caricatures.
  
• Give the source your contact numbers and invite reaction to whatever you write.
  

This will take time. But it is a good rehearsal for when you develop a beat of your own.

The recruiter asks back: Help this intern. If you're an experienced reporter with a trick or strategy, share it by clicking here.

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Coming Thursday: He plans to e-mail every paper on the East Coast with his clips and wonders if he can add notes to the clips. But the spam issue is the big one.

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