| Topic Name: |
Houston's ratings race |
| Message Name: |
thank you |
| Date Posted: |
06/01/2005 |
| In Reply To: |
Killerphotog may be afraid to respond with specifics, because in doing so he/she risks identification, and consequently, repraisal. We in the news business know that sometimes in an investigation, the most innocuous statement could turn a witness into a suspect.
I don't feel this is the proper forum to air 13's dirty laundry, but I offer a small tidbit because someone that I truly believe is management said "spill it."
Over the past year or so, a wall has been erected between news management and the rank and file. While there is blame on both sides, it is ultimately the responsibility of the management. The highest management refuses to listen to suggestions, problems, or comments from the common employee. The attitude seems to be "We know best. How dare you tell us how to do our jobs? Who the hell are you, anyway? Maybe YOU are the problem!" I think that if the people at the top were to look at themselves, and say, "maybe we are too isolated, we need to open ourselves up more and listen to the folks we've hired", then the rank and file reporters, photogs, producers, APs, editors, eng-ers etc. wouldn't feel like it's Us vs. Them. I hope management would do this, but I fear that they don't want to hear what I have to say, that maybe I'm the problem, and how dare I tell them how to do their jobs. Catch 22. Still, I believe that at least he who is at the highest level is big enough to look within for answers.
For myself, I would much rather offer solutions than criticism:
Mister Strickland, tear down this wall.
Come out here in the newsroom more, not just when there's an emergency, and not just to talk to Chris or Don or Jerry. We know you're busy, but at least appear to have an interest in what's going on in the trenches day-to-day. Come with us to a live shot. Offer a 'good job' to those who deserve it. Out in the field and back at the station I've heard it said how an 'atta-boy would have been nice.' You don't have to be everybody's best buddy, but let your people know you appreciate them. We look to you for leadership.
When people have problems, you really need to listen, and not dismiss them as whiners. It may seem like an insignificant problem to you, but if it's important enough for an employee to bring to you, than it is most likely affecting that person's product as well. And that's everybody's problem. Listen, and encourage solutions.
Right now, people are afraid to go to management with a problem, because they know they'll come away with a bigger problem. Huh?
Personally, I have a great deal of respect for Dave Strickland. However, I don't get the feeling that he has any respect for me...and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels that way.
We're a TEAM. Let's all start acting like one.
It may sound like I'm contradicting myself, but I do believe Mr. Strickland has very sound news judgement, and subscribes to an 'old school', no-nonsense style of journalism. Sadly, our newscasts do not reflect this, as we are consultant-driven. I think we should dump the consultants and go with our gut. We know this market. Eyewitness News was the dominant station in Houston for ages by being different. Now that I'm here, we look like every other station. (Maybe I'm the problem?!)
I've already said more than I should have. I only want to help. I've worked at worse stations. No, ktrk is not hell. But it can be a hell of a lot better than it is.
I could say volumes on how we can improve our content, etc, but I wouldn't want to put such suggestions out there for others.
Yes, I am afraid to post this. I feel I risk my job in doing so. But I truly want to help, and I want things to be better at KTRK. I'm ready to settle down, and I'd like to stay here a while. I only hope that any fellow journalist (mgt included) who reads this and thinks they know who I am, would protect me as an anonymous source, just like Woodward and Bernstein. :)
Let's make this work, people. |
| Message: |
Freemantle,
thank you for your considerate response.
I think a lot can be learned from what you said. I can guarantee that there will be no retaliation for there is no way of knowing who you are. plus you are trying to help so why retaliate?
i would ask you to be a bit more specific.
what is it that really concerns you? you are very broad and I want you to narrow it down to an example or two. you don't have to give names and you can change the subject a bit if you think it will give away your identity.
again, i appreciate what you have said and i can guarantee it will be discussed among the managers.
i am sorry it has taken a forum to get this addressed but we are serious at making ktrk a better place to work.
what ever it takes right?
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