Five things entrepreneurs must know about journalists, but are often clueless about

When entrepreneurs zig, journalists zag.

That’s how wide the gulf between the two worlds are.

Journalists are essentially publicity whores that live in a fast-paced work environment, rushing to and fro to cover scandal after scandal.

Entrepreneurs, on the other hand, often live for years in obscurity before getting their big break — the makers of Draw Something are a good example. A lot of them, unfortunately, will remain forever mired in the bog of insignificance.

And when journalists and entrepreneurs work together, it’s often an uneasy, contentious symbiosis. Entrepreneurs complain of being misquoted and misrepresented by journalists, while journalists gripe about being arm-twisted to write an article a certain way.

But it doesn’t always have to be this way. Having some tension is natural, and a healthy working relationship is attainable.

Entrepreneurs and journalists do need one another, so understanding both sides is an essential first step to making the partnership work.

Having lived and breathed in a newsroom environment in both the print and online world, I thought it’s time I share five things entrepreneurs must know about journalists, but unfortunately, are often clueless about. Read more

Qi Global 2011 – 13 and 14 October

For the third time running, Qi 2011 will present the audience with various speakers from different expertise areas. They will share their personal insights on how they create innovative business, social and environmental solutions and where they see future opportunities. You can view speakers list here. Read more