Social media has disrupted sports media, forcing journalists to change the way they work.
Deadlines are now, well, dead. With news being published in bite-sized form, the sports media industry is now reporting in real-time. Developing written feature stories are secondary for the beat writer. It’s a digital first world. That requires access, speed and a social media platform.
Dr. Tiff Jones, a mental performance consultant, discusses how social media is impacting professional athletes. As you watch this short segment, consider the residual impact social media is having on reporting.
Ask yourself:
- With athletes taking ownership of their “brand” and message, how does/will this impact what you report?
- How important is it for beat writers to follow and respond to athletes they cover?
- How does an athletes social media content influence what you report?
- Does an athletes social media account influence your reporting? If so, how?
- What can reporters do to offer a unique perspective of athletes?
