We caught up with Terry Murden, editor of Daily Business and director of Daily Business Ltd, to talk about his career, challenges facing the media today and how PRs and journalists can work together.
Find out what he had to say.
What do you read and where do you get your news (not your own)?
“Anything relevant to the job really – mainly other news and information websites, and horse racing columns. I can’t disclose my sources of news.”
Did you always know you wanted to be a journalist?
“No, not until my final year of university. I first worked for the National Coal Board and for the Manpower Services Commission as a youth worker running a photography workshop. It was tough to get into journalism in those days – 1970s/80s.”
What are your career highlights?
“Winning a dozen awards, including a UK award and becoming Business Editor of four newspapers and Scottish Editor of The Sunday Times. Also, going on press trips to US, China and Russia in one twelve months in 2006 and tracking down a gangster’s moll and a trade union strike breaker who were both in hiding. Interviewing Mrs Thatcher was also a highlight.
Helping young journalists progress in their careers is also something I’m proud of.”
What’s the best advice you have ever been given?
“The journalist who does all the talking never gets the story.”
What is the best pitch you have ever received? and the worst?
“Tough to single out any…the best usually come from those who really know and really understand what makes a good story. The worst come from those who don’t.”
What challenges do journalists face today?
“The biggest challenge today is citizens who spread and source their own news through social media or PR agencies passing off advertising as news. Editors are failing to keep this in check and are undermining their own business model.”
What stories / angles are you looking for?
“At Daily Business we want to hear all business issues, economy-related politics, key sports and arts news and events. Whatever might interest a professional person in their work or leisure time.”
You’ve mentioned previously that video content will form a big part of Daily Business going forward. Why have you made this move?
“I’m told video is the future. It is clear that it is growing and that it adds to the online mix and stickiness of any website.”
And how can PRs contribute?
“It is still evolving at Daily Business but short vimeo recordings of interviews, for instance, can be included with stories pitched to us. I’m also offering it as an advertising and promotional service.”
If you would like to speak to us about how our media contacts and PR know-how can improve your business, then get in touch!