Greg Little, 61
Editor/co-owner, Mariposa Gazette Mariposa, Calif.
First journalism job: Sportswriter, Terre Haute (Ind.) Tribune-star
What are some of the most important lessons you have learned while working in the news industry?
The most important lesson is the power of reporting the news. It is a power those in the industry must always respect and use with the utmost of care. We can make a big difference whether it is a new stop sign or exposing corruption in government. But we can also misuse the power and ruin lives. Pick your battles carefully.
We must also remember we are a voice for the voiceless. That has to be our focus no matter the subject. We can give people in our society the power to make change. That has to be one of our governing principles as the news industry.
Another important lesson is to give those who want to be in our industry a chance. Someone had to give me my first opportunity and I am always willing to help new (young or old) journalists. Without them, we have no future.
It is also critical to always be humble and remember accolades is not a goal; accomplishment is the end game. Accomplishment for others in the sense you can empower the public to make changes and be that catalyst to make it happen. Humility is paramount in our industry.
What are your predictions for where journalism is heading?
As an old guy and an optimist, I see a bright future—with one major caveat. Large media corporations have nearly ruined small, local papers. We must find a way to get local ownership back into small newspapers. At our weekly newspaper, we have grown our advertising base in the last three years because we cover what the people want: Local news, local sports, education and local advertising. People ask how we get so much advertising and I say it is because it works. It is not rocket science, but when the accountants are put in charge, we all see the results. We must also always put our employees first and pay them fair wages; no matter the impact on the profit margin. Loyalty is paramount in making a consistent, quality news product. Newspapers must also be involved in the community. Whether it is sponsoring a political debate or having a float in the parade, so many have gotten away from these essential roles. Why would the community support you if you do not support the community? A lot of this dates back decades, but if we don’t look at our past, I fear our future may not be viable.