Lessons of a business journalist

Stacy Hanna of the Battle Creek Enquirer in Michigan writes Tuesday about the lessons she has learned as a business reporter during the past four years.

Hanna writes, “I learned to keep a good calculator in reach at all times and to find a colleague who can accurately (if not happily) check my math — percentages in particular. This is easier said than done in a newsroom.

“I learned to make friends with the gatekeepers at companies such as Kellogg and Denso. They not only offer great day-to-day insight, but generally can find you 15 minutes of their boss’ time, even where it doesn’t exist.

“I learned to spend as much face-to-face time with small-business owners as possible. They are the real risk-takers. It takes a lot more guts to put your own livelihood on the line than that of your shareholders, in my opinion.”

Read more here.