Editing, Leadership, and Team Building
My leadership positions in various areas of journalism require me to be someone who brings people together. I have learned the value of being a person first, a peer second, and a “boss” third. I edit using skills learned from the three editing seminars I attended at KSPA’s fall 2023 conference in Lawrence.
Editing a script
Here is a script from one of my Miege Weekly skits. As occurred with this skit, writing a script takes communication from my entire team. We have a GroupMe with everyone in the class, then subsequent GroupMes for editors, actors, writers etc. I wrote the script, edited it myself, then cross-checked my work with 3 other writers.
Learnings from KSPA conference
My favorite seminar of the three I attended at the fall KSPA journalism conference was "Editing Schnediting" by Laurie L Folsom of Mill Valley. The seminar was extremely insightful, and the contents of my reflection on the left still make up my foundations and principles as an editor.
Copy editing
The gallery on the left features some of my comments on articles I had been referred to edit. If the mistake is minor, I try to give direct feedback. If I believe the mistake will affect the overall story, I try to give constructive criticism that I can defend if it is brought up in person. I have found this to be the most effective way to lead and teach your staff.