Q. Is it a good idea to try to get something out of writing an article?
For example, I wrote an article for my publication about a man with a unique business that also happens to include a beautiful event center and vineyard. Now I want to have an event there, but the cost is extreme. Would it be OK for me to ask for a discount? I'm thinking they might consider it because they thought my article was great.
AnneA. Don't do it.
Under no circumstances should journalists ask for or accept discounts or any kind of special treatment for something they have done -- or the promise to do something in the future.
Service to readers demands that we remain independent. You compromise that independence, your reputation and the good name of many hard-working, honest journalists if you use your position to get favors.
For further background, see the Society of Professional Journalists'
code of ethics. You want the section on acting independently.
Also read
Guiding Principals for Journalists by my Poynter colleague, Bob Steele.
You might follow that with the
New York Times Co.'s policy. Read the section called "Keeping our detachment," which I might call, "Staying independent."
I received a question similar to this a couple weeks ago and answered it privately but did not post it because I thought the answer was so clear. Perhaps I made a mistake then.
If you want to be a journalist, act ethically to protect our craft, your reputation and the reputations of other journalists who will surely suffer if you cut corners.
No discount or favor is ever worth more than your good name.
Coming Tuesday: A couple questions about journalism awards and how to use them in job-seeking.
Really? I'm trying to not be bitter here, but it's...
