Identity

After a week of answering someone else's phone and email, I realised that your identity as an individual is slightly meaningless as a reporter.

People are more impressed with the title of your publication than who you are personally. In a smaller community, they hold on to a name but the name is a means to the end when publicity is the game.

I don't mind being a faceless photographer/writer. You are there to talk about the community not you personally.
I'm particularly taken how the title can bring a smile to a person's face or a frown depending on what they want.
They'll clutch on to you and introduce you to everyone in the room.

In the last week as a 'full-time' reporter, community groups spot you from a mile away especially if you are the only one under 65.
They are keen to tell you their life story or are encouraged by others to do so, all in the name of an unsolicited piece of editorial.

At the end of the day, you produce a range of articles and your subject knowledge is greatly increased.