Adopt an investigative mindset by treating stories as opportunities to build evidence, test arguments and construct cases using methods similar to legal training. Investigative work focuses on problems causing preventable harm and digs into why harm occurred and who or what is responsible so solutions can be pursued. Reporters should ask sources how systems are broken and use modest 'B-level' ideas to cultivate relationships and sharpen leads. Consistently reporting and publishing on a beat exposes journalists to recurring patterns and signals trustworthiness to potential sources, increasing the flow of investigative tips and story opportunities.
When you're done asking questions about the story at hand, ask your sources, 'If you controlled an investigative reporter, what would you look into? How is the system broken or harming people?' I've had project reporters manufacture the kinds of opportunities beat reporters get, using a 'B-level' idea - something perfectly publishable, but not necessarily exciting - to engage with sources who might sharpen the idea or steer them in a better direction.
Stories beget stories, so journalists who are always reporting, talking to sources about specifics and becoming experts in their little corners of the world will be exposed to more investigative opportunities than those who are not, Zayas said. The act of regularly publishing alone sends a signal to potential sources that you might be the right person for a tip.
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