Columbia focuses on coaching journalism execs

Doug SmithExecutive DirectorPunch Sulzberger Program Sixth in a series on entrepreneurial journalism programs at universities and media organizations.  Columbia Journalism School’s Punch Sulzberger Program differs from other programs in this series in several ways. Like them, it is entrepreneurial in focusing on innovation and transforming of a media enterprise. But the biggest difference is that it […]

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How a newsroom is like a hit comedy

If you are running a news organization, you have much in common with the coach of a sports team, the director of a ballet or the producer of a hit comedy. The issues are the same.  Motivating people. Encouraging creativity. Developing people’s talent to its highest level. Maintaining the discipline to meet deadlines and stay within […]

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IBM chief gives advice that entrepreneurs should heed

Samuel Palmisano, I.B.M.’s outgoing boss, used four questions to guide his company’s strategy over the past decade, according to an interview in the New York Times. All of them are questions that digital media entrepreneurs should be asking themselves every day: “Why would someone spend their money with you — so what is unique about […]

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How to give criticism effectively, in 6 steps

Far too often I had this conversation with a department manager: “I am so frustrated with Robert (or Roberta). He never listens and never improves. I’ve had it.” “Have you had this conversation with Robert?” I would ask. The answer far too often was no. Usually the manager was afraid that confronting the employee would make […]

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Praise has practical benefits in the newsroom

What could be worse than to make extra effort in your work and feel that no one noticed? The message would be clear: it doesn’t really matter to anyone whether I do a good job or not.  No newsroom boss should let that happen. Judicious praise can change that.      Many editors in particular skimp […]

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Do you know where you’re going? Set some goals

When you are consumed by the daily demands of publishing news on your website, it is difficult to step back and think about where you are going. But you have to do this. Otherwise your destination is Nowhereville. There are entire websites and shelves in the bookstore dedicated to the literature on goal-setting. I will […]

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Faves from NewsU’s 100 ideas for better journalism

(Aquí se encuentran entradas relacionadas sobre periodismo emprendedor y liderazgo.) NewsU and its founder, Howard Finberg, celebrated their 100th webinar today with ideas from faculty at the Poynter Institute on making journalism better. My favorites had to do with leadership and the business side of the news. From Wendy Wallace, on journalism entrepreneurs Play to […]

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