What was your first job as a journalist?
Six week stint as a forward planning assistant at Scottish Television [expenses only] followed by reporter's job at Wigtown Free Press.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes. It was a condition of contract for my first job at the Wigtown Free Press newspaper in 1994.
How is social media changing news?
Making it real time, inclusive & transparent but delivering challenges for resourcing and fact checking. Positive in my view.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Jack Parlabane
What does it mean to be a journalist?
One of the most privileged positions you can have - but you get what you give. You can effect change & make a difference or follow the crowd.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Email to my work address, phone call or over a drink.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Too many to list fully, favourites include Google (many things), Prezi, Storify, PicMonkey, Tweetdeck, Word, flickr, Yammer, Sprout Social.
What's your favorite social network?
Currently Google Communities, though Twitter is invaluable for work in its current state.
Who do you wish followed you?
- he still owes me £20
Why did you become a journalist?
Took a wrong turn at the lights ...
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
We didn't have a newspaper, but a newsletter I produced in partnership with the then School Board - writing, designing and sub-editing.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Covering the war in Kosovo in with the award winning photographer Tony Nicoletti who gave images strong enough to make the words work:
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Master shorthand, carry a pencil - pens don't work in the rain, travel by bus/train - you hear more, never turn down a cuppa.
