The following are the skills you need to become a better, well-respected journalist:

1. High quality writing skills. Obviously, it’s important that you possess above average writing skills especially if you want to excel in this endeavor. You must be very familiar as to how news articles are written and you must be able to communicate the facts that you have in a way that you can engage, entertain, and educate your readers. If needed, you can improve your writing skills through constant practice, by getting education or courses in journalism, and by attending relevant seminars.

2. Great research skills. As a journalist, you’re expected to deliver complete information to your readers so you can help these people fully understand your stories. You must be very patient and determined in getting the information they need no matter how impossible it may seem. You must also have access to information that are crucial in explaining your chosen stories.

3. Balanced reporting. Your articles should never sound one-sided. Before you start writing, make sure that you get all sides of the story. Interview all those people who are involved and who are experts on the topics that you’re covering. For instance, if you’re writing about gas price hike, you must get the opinions of the buying public, the product providers, and the economists who might be able to explain the price increase.

4. Attention to details. It could be a tiny error but getting a name spelled wrong for example is considered unforgivable in the field of journalism. So, make sure that you always pay attention to even the smallest details as any mistake will surely be taken against you.