1. Truthful- I will report the truth to its fullest extent if it doesn’t violate a person’s privacy, or if the interest of the public is greater than the person’s privacy.

 

A journalist’s job is to inform the public of what is going on in the world and give insight into people’s lives. Withholding the truth would be irresponsible and misleading to the public.

            

2.  Accurate- I will fact check the information I obtain to ensure it is accurate and fair.

 

Accurate information is critical to establish trust with sources. Reporting inaccurate information hurts the credibility of a news organization, as well as the reporter. 

            

3.  Integrity- I will not accept compensation in exchange for favorable reporting toward an organization and will not allow outside influences to affect my reporting.

 

Outside people can attempt to bribe news organizations for favorable news being reported. To hold powerful people in check, it is the job of journalists to keep the public informed. 

            

4.  Respect- I will treat others’ time with respect by being fully prepared before interviews and arriving on time.

 

Being prepared and on time is the best way to show your sources that you care and will not waste their time.

            

5.  Responsibility- I will not report on events involving a family member, friend or colleague. It is my responsibility to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest, for the organization to remain impartial.

 

I don’t want my emotions to affect my job. Removing myself from the event is the best way to prevent conflicting interests.

            

6.  Fearless- I will uphold the principles of journalism when faced with scrutiny and threats from others. 

 

I have confidence in the work I submit for publication. Not all news will make people happy. The reactions from my work will not deter me from reporting the facts.

            

7.  Accountability- I will meet deadlines and be in constant contact with my sources and editors.

 

Remaining in contact with editors and sources helps me show them that I care about what story is run. It also helps me become a better writer to know what others think of my work.

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It is important to have a code of ethics to show the standard journalists hold themselves to. It can help explain my actions when I am faced with ethical dilemmas. Having a code of ethics provides insight into the values I have, and provides companies with knowledge about what standard I will hold myself to.