Claman tries to raise the Fox Business profile

Meg James of the Los Angeles Times profiles Fox Business Network anchor Liz Claman and the steps she is taking to raise the network’s awareness with viewers.

James writes, “‘I do ask the tough questions, but I’m not in your face, I am not trying to make news myself,’ Claman said. ‘I think a lot of broadcast journalists get confused, particularly in cable, about what is the real story. Is it you, or the people who made the news?’

“However, Claman left CNBC, in part, because she wasn’t a headliner. The network heavily promoted Maria Bartiromo, Erin Burnett and others, leaving fewer opportunities for Claman to shine. She continues to compete with Bartiromo from afar; Claman’s ‘Countdown to the Closing Bell’ runs at the same time as Bartiromo’s show.

“Although Fox Business is struggling for viewers, some industry watchers wonder whether its influence will increase after an existing deal between CNBC and the Wall Street Journal expires. In 2012, the Fox channel will be able to trumpet its ties to the Journal, and Journal reporters will be able to appear regularly on Fox.

“Claman said she took the job knowing it could take five years for Fox Business to become a force.”

Read more here.