Copy Editing is Not Just For Producers

In a high stress, fast-paced environment such as the newsroom, it is easy to do things yourself to save time. However, I feel that teaching and helping others is a one of the main jobs a producer has. That's why one of my goals for the remainder of the semester is to make sure that I give hands on guidance and suggestions to the MJs. When someone comes to you asking to get a story approved or copy edited, it is easy to simply read it to yourself, make corrections, and then ask them to go edit the story. But by taking the easy way, how will anyone learn or improve their broadcast writing skills? From now on I am going to make sure that before assigning an MJ a story to write, I will be more specific about what the story is about and why we are writing it. I will also, when copy editing, do it with the MJ next to me and explain the corrections I am making so they understand how they can improve their writing skills. This goes the same for shooting and editing. As a producer we need to be specific and helpful so MJs can improve their skills, and look up to us for help. If we take simple steps, every aspect of the broadcast has the potential to be completed faster, and improve. At the end of the day teaching, learning, improvement, and a great broadcast is what we are aiming for.