Media: Q & A with Vinay Tewari

The problem is that the talent required to be a journalist is largely undefined - it's about having news sense, which cannot be obtained with a degree, says Vinay Tewari in an interview with Kinjal Dagli.

Vinay Tewari is the executive editor, CNN-IBN

HT Image

Q. What skills does a news anchor need to have?
A. A common misconception is that you just need a pretty face. We first look for journalists. In the 1970s, one used to read news off the teleprompter; now you have to anchor a bulletin, which means you need to know the subject. Part of the problem is that the talent required to be a journalist is largely undefined - it's about having news sense, which cannot be obtained with a degree.

Q. How difficult is it to survive and rise in the industry?
A. An ability to work hard and work odd hours is a must. If you have a problem coming in to the office at midnight, then this is not the field for you. A nose for news and hunger to absorb everything around you will keep you in good stead.