Suzanna Dutt

Oh, what a great question! It feels like such a throwback to a different era. I used a typewriter when I was about 7 or 8 at school. Our computer lab had one alongside those translucent turquoise iMacs, and we even had a typewriter in our classroom—it was kind of a novelty at the time. I remember how cool it felt to press the keys and see the letters instantly printed on paper with ink. But it was also incredibly easy to make mistakes, which could be frustrating. While it was a fun experience, I’m definitely glad we’ve moved on to more efficient tools!

Social media has made news instant and globally accessible, with stories breaking in real time and reaching audiences within seconds. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok let journalists engage directly, share rapid updates, and crowdsource information.However, the race to be first often compromises accuracy, spreading misinformation. Algorithms favour sensational content, overshadowing nuanced reporting and the line between credible journalism and unverified sources has blurred, underscoring the need for media literacy.Despite these challenges, social media has democratized news, amplifying voices and perspectives that might otherwise go unheard.

I prefer pitches that are concise, clear and tailored to my beat. A well-crafted pitch should highlight the most compelling angle of the story upfront—what makes it unique or newsworthy. I appreciate when people show they’ve done their homework by understanding the type of stories I write and the audience I serve. It’s also helpful when pitches include relevant details, contacts, and any supporting materials, like visuals or data, that could help bring the story to life.Timing is important too—reaching out early enough for me to plan coverage but not so far in advance that it loses relevance. And, of course, follow-ups are fine, but I value a professional tone and patience if I’m not able to respond right away.