Published regionally in the United Kingdom by Independent News Limited.
Wednesday, 22 June 2011
Wednesday, 15 June 2011
Cross plot : mapping out your career dreams as a Christian in media
Once again a conference held at the Hayes Centre in Derby by the Church and Media Network on the 13th - 14th of June has proved to be a resounding success.
"It can sometimes be a lonely place, working in a media environment and holding faith to one's core beliefs," said one young delegate. "The conference offers support and reminds me I can map out a good career for myself and am not alone."
Far from it; the annual Church and Media Conference is become a real oasis for all Christians working in media, it continues to offer a place to meet, exchange ideas, listen, plot and plan future dreams.
Speakers this year included big hitters such as BBC controller, Danny Cohen, who proudly announced; "'Songs of Praise' is celebrating its 50th year and I'm very conscious of that anniversary. I think it is the longest-running
religious programme in the world."
Other past speakers have included Duncan Williams, the regional magazine and newspaper publisher, rumoured to be behind a recently attempted 'ethical consortium buyout' of the Sport Media Group.
Williams described the Church and Media Conference as; "One of the most inspiring events I have attended. Life changing!"
So, is Britain actually regaining it's Christian voice; is this being reflected in powerful changes of attitude within the media industry?
"I think we still have a very long way to go," admitted a regular attendee. "But this Conference is certainly doing more than a little to help map a pathway."
For more info : http://www.mediafutures.info
Friday, 10 June 2011
Wednesday, 8 June 2011
Vision Talk -
VISION TALK -
a report from the Alpha International Conference by Duncan Williams.
Nicky Gumbel was in engaging form at the Alpha International Conference, held in London at Holy Trinity Brompton from the 6th to 10th of June.
This was the first time I had heard the evangelical reverend speak in person; and was immediately impressed by a gift for simple delivery coupled with a powerful message.
Nicky's welcome to the many Catholics who had attend end the Conference for the first time was heartfelt, as was his introduction to his Vision Talk that openly acknowledged the benefits Christianity had gained from last year's Papal visit to the UK.
Through focus upon a reading from Isaiah 61:4; The Vision Talk went on to encourage those of us working in the media to inspire and unite and rebuild the communities, people and religions of the world. Using our media skills to build a bridge of communication towards a better understanding and peace.
Media is a message bearer, and the minds and spiritual vision of thousands can be enhanced by taking active responsibility for its appropriate use.
I was reminded that we are in a most privileged position to encourage transformation.
"They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastate; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations" - Isaiah 61:4
Nicky Gumbel was in engaging form at the Alpha International Conference, held in London at Holy Trinity Brompton from the 6th to 10th of June.
This was the first time I had heard the evangelical reverend speak in person; and was immediately impressed by a gift for simple delivery coupled with a powerful message.
Nicky's welcome to the many Catholics who had attend end the Conference for the first time was heartfelt, as was his introduction to his Vision Talk that openly acknowledged the benefits Christianity had gained from last year's Papal visit to the UK.
Through focus upon a reading from Isaiah 61:4; The Vision Talk went on to encourage those of us working in the media to inspire and unite and rebuild the communities, people and religions of the world. Using our media skills to build a bridge of communication towards a better understanding and peace.
Media is a message bearer, and the minds and spiritual vision of thousands can be enhanced by taking active responsibility for its appropriate use.
I was reminded that we are in a most privileged position to encourage transformation.
"They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastate; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations" - Isaiah 61:4
Wednesday, 11 May 2011
Why Positive News Is Good For Us All
Why Positive News Is Good For Us All
Independent News Ltd. buys previously loss making newspapers and turns them into profit making entities that improve communications with local communities.
This is all done with the power of positive news. Positive news sells. Companies would much rather have their product or service advertised alongside an uplifting article that puts the reader in a good mood than an article about doom and gloom.
Positive Stories
What kind of stories do you like to read in the news?
Stories about success and celebration? Or stories about tragedy and the misfortune of others?
Most people would surely prefer to read uplifting stories that are well written and that aim to educate and inspire.
But unfortunately, when you take a look at your daily newspaper each morning, you may notice that the main headlines all focus on negativity.
Nowadays, column inches seem to be packed full of the woes of celebrities, the failures of politicians, the depressing overview of the economic climate. Even worse, these stories of gloom are often reported with an amount of glee on behalf of the journalist. The articles are often poorly written and do not educate nor inspire positive change in the life of the reader or society in general.
But wouldn’t it be nice to be greeted with an uplifting story about achievement, about something to celebrate, about something optimistic to get you in a good mood as you take on the day?
This is exactly what Duncan Williams, a Director on the board of Independent News Ltd., aims to achieve. He really does believe in the power of a good story.
“A good story does as it says on the tin; It reports a truthful, inspiring message. Maybe sheds a little light on some gloom... or draws attention to somebody or something worthwhile. The story's power lies in the fact that through its reporting it seeks to encourages more of the same” said Williams.
Independent News Ltd. buys previously loss making newspapers and turns them into profit making entities that improve communications with local communities.
This is all done with the power of positive news. Positive news sells. Companies would much rather have their product or service advertised alongside an uplifting article that puts the reader in a good mood than an article about doom and gloom.
Positive Stories
What kind of stories do you like to read in the news?
Stories about success and celebration? Or stories about tragedy and the misfortune of others?
Most people would surely prefer to read uplifting stories that are well written and that aim to educate and inspire.
But unfortunately, when you take a look at your daily newspaper each morning, you may notice that the main headlines all focus on negativity.
Nowadays, column inches seem to be packed full of the woes of celebrities, the failures of politicians, the depressing overview of the economic climate. Even worse, these stories of gloom are often reported with an amount of glee on behalf of the journalist. The articles are often poorly written and do not educate nor inspire positive change in the life of the reader or society in general.
But wouldn’t it be nice to be greeted with an uplifting story about achievement, about something to celebrate, about something optimistic to get you in a good mood as you take on the day?
This is exactly what Duncan Williams, a Director on the board of Independent News Ltd., aims to achieve. He really does believe in the power of a good story.
“A good story does as it says on the tin; It reports a truthful, inspiring message. Maybe sheds a little light on some gloom... or draws attention to somebody or something worthwhile. The story's power lies in the fact that through its reporting it seeks to encourages more of the same” said Williams.
Improving Society With Positive Media
Duncan Williams hopes to increase the well-being of society with positive media.
“Marginalised elements of society often find it hard to access or express views in the mainstream media. Broadly speaking there is a trade in sensationalism and death. A tragic killing gets a mass of column inches and airtime, whereas the celebration of a human life gets far less. A birthday of a 100 year old citizen deserves as much, if not more attention, than the gleeful reporting of yet more doom and gloom. Coverage should always aim to be personal and real. Profiles of people should aim to help readers identify and feel a part of the story rather than apart from it. Ten years of revised media attitudes could have a remarkably beneficial effect upon society.”
A good story does not necessarily have to be an uplifting story of celebration. A tragic story can also be a good story.
In the reporting of a tragic story the reader demands that there be a point and a purpose to the way the story is told. From a tragedy people can still learn something that will help them in life. A tragedy often brings out the best in people and highlights the inner strength of human beings, with communities pulling together during times of adversity.
Whether it be about a tragedy or a success, a good story is always about the celebration of human life.
“It's human nature to want a good motive to override a bad one; it's what best assists group survival” states Williams.
Good Stories Sell
A good story is also advantageous from a business perspective. Good stories sell.
With Independent News Ltd., Duncan Williams has found a winning business formula of purchasing previously loss making regional newspapers and fast tracking them into profit. By doing this he has built up a portfolio of titles launched specifically at improving communication within local communities.
Independent News Ltd. uses what is known as value advertising to turn the newspapers into profitable entities.
The concept of value advertising is to increase the number of positive and uplifting stories in newspapers to make it more appealing for companies to want to purchase advertising space alongside such articles.
Duncan Williams believes that advertisers would much rather have an ad for their product displayed next to a positive story than alongside a story full of gloom and negativity. An uplifting story will shed the product in a more positive light. The reader will also be in a more positive mood as a result of the story and thus more receptive to advertisements on the page.
“If you were a newspaper advertiser would you want to promote your product or service next to an article about something dark and negative or positive and uplifting? Positive wins through.” he said.
Creating A More Positive Society
Independent News Ltd. is about more than just profiting from uplifting stories. Duncan Williams believes that by offering more positive media, we can build a more positive society.
“When all focus is placed relentlessly upon the negative, true vision, faith and hope all get eroded. A new pair of glasses can remind people that the world can still be a very beautiful place even in the most difficult of times. Modern media can be that powerful.” he states.
Duncan Williams wants to see more stories about the celebration of human life. Stories that help readers identify and feel part of the story rather than apart from it. He believes that ten years of revised media attitudes could have a remarkably beneficial effect upon society.
The Future Of Positive Media
As Independent News Ltd. continue to turn around the fortunes of magazines and newspapers, the amount of quality content in the media is only going to increase.
In 10 years’ time you may well get to take a look at your morning newspaper and read a good story that not only informs you, but educates you, and inspires you, and enriches your life. Wouldn’t that make a nice change?
Monday, 9 May 2011
Sunday, 10 April 2011
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)