Identifying Your Strengths and Weaknesses as a Journalist

For freelancers, figuring out where you shine — and what you need to work on — is a great way to grow and learn more about your craft.

In our latest Journalism Advice column, we got the scoop from several veteran editors on what they’re looking for in a freelancer. One surprising takeaway: some editors are more likely to be won over by a unique story idea than your artful prose. Of course, if you excel at both writing and reporting, you are way ahead of the game.

[Lisa Haney, senior health editor of Fitness] says, “I’m looking for some good balance, somebody who knows how to dig and get good quotes from experts, and to be able to synthesize information into a straightforward voice.” It