The difference between soft and hard news lies in the style and deadlines. Hard news has a more aggressive deadline, while soft news has a more flexible writing style. Soft news, on the other hand, may be timeless in nature. It is written in an engaging style with a particular topic in mind. It is also more flexible in its presentation. There are some differences between the two types of content, so it is important to know which is which.
Service journalism is a form of storytelling
Service journalism is a type of reporting that relies on listening and providing information to readers in an attempt to address problems or provide solutions. Service journalism differs from traditional story-telling in that the reporter acts as a trusted guide, chasing down facts and context and putting them in the context of the story. While the content of service pieces can vary, they generally aim to answer a single question. In addition, service articles are often long and detailed, with thorough explanations typically winning the day. This type of journalism is also often templated and planned.
It addresses the audience directly
The term soft news is used to describe news that speaks directly to an audience. This type of news is often referred to as “family news.” Soft news is generally aimed at the less politically active citizens of a country. According to a study by Harvard University‘s Global Media Monitoring Project, women reporters are more likely to be assigned to soft news stories. Soft news stories also tend to feature traditional gender roles, which is of concern to media critics.
It is fact-based
The magazine industry has long embraced the soft news concept. Magazines like Time and Newsweek have cover stories about everything from yoga and phobias to religion and politics. Even network newscasts have featured stories on topics ranging from consumer affairs to health. Even the daily newspaper and television shows such as 48 Hours and Dateline NBC have regular features that include fact-based, opinionated pieces. While soft news is not the only form of journalism that is fact-based, it is often the most popular and influential.
It is timely
News has many definitions, but “soft news” has a few distinguishing features. It often uses techniques that are common in fiction. It can include interviews, how-to articles, and lists. Its writing style is generally more flexible, and it can appeal to a broader audience than hard news. Here are some examples of soft news:
It is a hybrid social subject
Journalists are increasingly turning to hybrid journalism as a way to tell stories, while still being objective. This new form of journalism is more interactive and satirical than the traditional type of detached journalism, combining literary and dialogical techniques to present content that is interesting to an audience. It is also more conducive to social media platforms, which often allow for audience participation. Those who engage in hybrid journalism may have a better understanding of public affairs and their place within it.
