By nature, journalists have enquiring minds, and they always want to find out more. A good journalist needs to have a keen interest in the world around them, from their own doorstep to world affairs.  In addition, they are excited to share their discoveries with their audience, whether that audience be listeners or readers.  

The difference between a good story and a great story is in the way it is presented.  Broadcasters are trained by a voice coach, and they are encouraged to inject suspense, excitement, enthusiasm and even, when appropriate, sadness into their words.

Often, a journalist will develop their own style.  Take Robert Peston as an example.  He has a particular style – pausing often, then speaking quickly to put drama into his story. I have seen other presenters seemingly try to emulate him.

Interviewing a would-be student with a view to accepting them on a university course to study journalism requires the interviewer to look for that enthusiasm. A student who does not quite have the required A levels may still be accepted if that person shows what I call “a fire in the belly” to tell a story.  They may have been the editor of a school magazine or have their own Blog. Often that is a qualification in itself.

Even in the early days in the shorthand classroom, I have found myself reading a passage to a group of students and as soon as the stopwatch has denoted the end of the dictation, someone will speak out – not necessarily to ask about an outline, but to ask questions such as “if this a true story?” or “do you think that would happen in real life?” or “do you think that is factually correct?”  It starts a heathy debate.

The end of the exam passage denotes the end of the story, but here, we have extended the exam passage called "Impulse Buys" so that you know what happens next.  

The original mock exam was read at 80 wpm, so here is the sequel – first at 60 and then at 100.  

Impulse Buys II- 60 WPM on SoundCloud

Impulse Buys II- 100 WPM on SoundCloud

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