What was your first job as a journalist?
My debut as a journalist occurred during my student years when I landed my first job writing for the department news board at OAU, Ile Ife.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
As amusing as the question may seem, I decided to experiment with a typewriter because my uncle, a professor, believed that to become a better typist, one must learn typing using a typewriter.
How is social media changing news?
Social media exerts both positive and negative influences on news dissemination in the digital age. Information can spread rapidly, bypassing editorial oversight and organizational scrutiny, leading to the proliferation of fake news. The accessibility of social media around the clock has transformed the media landscape, as individuals have unrestricted access without financial obligations.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Garry Trudeau
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To me, being a journalist means being a trusted conduit of information. I must deliver news and stories with precision, fairness, and ethics to the audience. In today's age of social media, you must carefully verify facts. You must also work harder to prove stories and content. Journalists must have integrity. They need to be dedicated to factual reporting and adhere to standards. They must be committed to serving the public's best interests.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I like to receive pitches via email late in the evening before I go to bed. I respond first thing the next morning. My ideal email should be concise, preferably using bullet points to get straight to the point.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
As a blogger, I leverage a range of tools to streamline my work. I utilize Hostinger for hosting my WordPress blog, while drafting and editing posts primarily in MS Word. Additionally, I find Notion useful for note-taking. For spell checking, Grammarly is my go-to tool. When it comes to keyword research, I frequently rely on SEMrush, and for design needs, Canva is my preferred choice. Lastly, for tracking website traffic and other vital metrics, I turn to Google Analytics.
What's your favorite social network?
LinkedIn
Who do you wish followed you?
Cristiano Ronaldo
Why did you become a journalist?
1999
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
As I mentioned earlier, I worked for the University News board, not the high school newspaper.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Spiritual Cruise Guide
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
For aspiring journalist, you need to get good at writing, researching, and talking to people. Keep up with what's happening in the news and in journalism. Find someone experienced to help you out. Don't give up when things get tough. Always be honest and fair in your work. Learn how to use new technology and keep up with changes in journalism. Get good at lots of different things, make connections with other journalists, and don't forget to take care of yourself.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Between 6pm and 9pm
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The standout pitch came from a retreat coach who discovered my post on Spiritual cruise to be captivating. Their pitch emphasized not only the breathtaking destinations, unique experiences, and retreat activities at sea but also resonated with my blog's emphasis on sustainable living and ethical travel. It was an ideal match for collaboration. Receiving pitches that align with my values and interests, while providing valuable content for my readers, is always inspiring.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
The website lacks clarity, lacking a clear niche and identity.
What's your favorite drink?
Guinness stout is my favorite drink
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
When I'm not at a computer, you'll most likely find me watching soccer on TV
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Forbes
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Misconceptions vary across different niches. I receive the highest traffic from posts related to spirituality.
