By Keri Enriquez
@KeriEnriquez
University of Maryland rising senior
To survive an increasingly competitive and ever changing industry, editors are encouraged to expand their networks in order to diversify their newsrooms.
"Building a Diverse Hiring Network" workshop leader Mike Sherman of The Oklahoman, along with panelists Greg Lee of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Hemal Jhaveri of USA TODAY Sports and CBSSports.com’s Tim Stephens discussed the importance of broadening hiring pools to include more diverse and multifaceted candidates.
The panel argued that by staying within a limited network, editors are not exposed to other talent, which can result in missed opportunities. Stephens added that in today’s shrinking newsrooms employers need people who have a variety of projectable skills.
He recommended editors look beyond the conventional recruiting process.
“Network by definition is closed, limited by who is in it. You want to be forever expanding it," Stephens said. "It’s not diversity if we’re only working in a small group among ourselves. We have to look beyond."
Key takeaways:
· Even if you don’t have any positions available, the search for strong candidates is ongoing. Read, research and take note of people who have potential.
· Be approachable and mentor promising journalists, providing feedback on resumes, cover letters and stories.
· Don’t wait for the talent to come to you.
