Is your smartphone key to your success as a journalist?

As an Apple fan girl, I cannot begin to tell you how much I love my iPhone. Aside from the basic communication functions, a smartphone can be an incredibly useful tool for a journalist. Here are my top three reasons why!

1. You have the internet in your pocket. 

With access to the internet, you have access to a surplus of information that will help you when it comes to writing a story. Need to do a background check on someone on your way to an interview? No problem, whip out your smart phone and quickly search in Google for their details. If you are covering an event that is ongoing, it may be useful to catch up on what has happened so far by visiting news websites such as news.com.au or ABC News. As Marissa Calligeros told us a couple of weeks ago, speed and accuracy are crucial in news journalism. So don’t spell someone's name incorrectly if you aren’t sure, check online and avoid embarrassment when you are later corrected.  

2. You have instant access to social media platforms.

Again with the speed! With the ability to access social media sites and applications such as Twitter, Facebook and Google +, you could be the first one to post a short grab about a breaking news event. I’ll refer back to my example about Lauren Jackson being announced as the flag bearer for Australia at the London 2012 Olympic Games. The journalists at the conference were able to tweet the news seconds after the announcement was made.

3. You have the ability to post your story while still on the job. 

Think of what this means for you! Your story about a breaking news event could be the first one posted out of every journalist covering the same topic! While it is hard to type away on that small screen with just your thumbs, there are options for wireless keyboards (Apple sells one for $75, however there are many alternatives on the market). Email your story to your employer or post instantly via blogging websites.

As with all technology, it can’t always relied upon. So best to take your trusty notebook and pen as well!