As an emerging talent in the media fraternity in Ghana, it is important not to be swayed by industry pressure to live by unrealistic standards.
It is common for the media industry to have certain expectations and norms, but it is crucial to remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to success.
Society often puts pressure on individuals to conform to certain expectations, whether it’s related to appearance, success, or lifestyle.
Individuals need to define their values, goals, and aspirations, and not compare themselves to others. Setting realistic and attainable standards can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Building relationships with mentors, colleagues, and friends who support and encourage, and also seeking out individuals who understand your aspirations and are willing to provide guidance and advice based on their own experiences.
The media industry can be demanding and fast-paced. Taking care of one’s physical and mental well-being by setting boundaries, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and engaging in activities that help one relax and recharge, is helpful.
Authenticity and honesty ultimately help to build a strong reputation and attract opportunities aligned with one’s values.
Renowned Ghanaian radio presenter and Disc Jockey (DJ) Ohemaa Woyeje has urged emerging talents and colleagues within the media fraternity to stay focused on their objectives and resist succumbing to industry pressures.
According to the host of ‘Y’adwuma Nie’ on Angel FM, succumbing to peer pressure within the industry and adherence to these unrealistic expectations could hinder professional longevity.
“My little piece of advice to up-and-coming journalists, presenters, and even my established colleagues is that you can be the best when you are yourself. Anything you are trying to become is your master. If you can’t be anything, just be yourself. Don’t allow all these unrealistic standards set by certain people sway you from your goals, or else you will not last long in the industry.
“Thrive on originality and carve your path rather than conforming to inconsistent norms. If you pay heed to all of these pressures by some of our colleagues to dress in a certain way, drive certain types of cars, and live by certain standards, you won’t make any impact in this industry.”
Ohemaa Woyeje
Bernard Avle Reflects On The Changing Prospect Of Journalism
The landscape of journalism has indeed undergone significant changes in recent years, largely driven by the rise of social media and the increasing importance placed on fame and social media metrics. This shift has had both positive and negative implications for the field of journalism.
One of the positive aspects of the changing landscape is the increased accessibility and reach of news content. Social media platforms have provided journalists with new ways to disseminate information and engage with a global audience.
This has balanced the news industry to some extent, allowing independent journalists and citizen reporters to gain visibility and share stories that might have been overlooked by traditional media outlets.
Additionally, social media metrics such as likes, shares, and comments can serve as indicators of public interest and engagement with a story.
However, the emphasis on fame and social media metrics has also brought about some challenges and negative consequences. To capture attention and gain followers, there is a growing temptation for journalists and media organizations to prioritize sensationalism, clickbait, and viral content over high-quality journalism.
This can lead to a decline in the overall quality and accuracy of news reporting, as well as the proliferation of misinformation and fake news.
Furthermore, the pressure to generate high social media metrics can often distract journalists from their traditional roles and responsibilities.
Instead of focusing on in-depth investigations, fact-checking, and providing critical analysis, there may be a tendency to prioritize quick, attention-grabbing stories that are more likely to generate likes and shares.
This shift in priorities can undermine the integrity and credibility of journalism as a whole.
Journalists and media organizations need to strike a balance between leveraging the benefits of social media and staying true to the core principles of journalism.
While social media metrics can provide valuable insights into audience preferences and interests, they should not be the sole factor of news coverage. Journalists should prioritize accuracy, fairness, and public interest, even if it means sacrificing short-term popularity or social media metrics.
Media personality, Bernard Avle, urged colleague journalists to uphold integrity in the face of increasing celebrity status within the profession.
The journalist reflected on the changing landscape of journalism, expressing concerns about the shift towards fame and social media metrics over journalistic principles.
Avle emphasized the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity amidst the lure of fame.
He underscored the essence of journalism, urging fellow journalists to resist the trappings of fame and remain grounded in their profession.
“The basis of journalism is verification of information to put out because now I am using this to advise myself as well because it’s changing, followership, stardom when people see you they want autographs and you think you are a big guy, you are not any big guy, you are a simple journalist, never forget who you are. Don’t let people define you because of your big car.”
Bernard Avle
Ultimately, the changing landscape of journalism and the increasing focus on fame and social media metrics represent a complex and ongoing transformation.
It is crucial for journalists, media organizations, and audiences to critically evaluate the impact of these changes and work towards preserving the integrity and importance of journalism in society.
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