How can you gather information from difficult-to-reach sources?

1 Use multiple methods

Depending on the situation, you may need to use different methods to contact and communicate with your sources. For example, you may use phone calls, emails, social media, encrypted messaging apps, or even snail mail. You may also need to be flexible and creative in finding alternative ways to reach your sources, such as using intermediaries, local fixers, or online platforms that connect journalists with experts and eyewitnesses. You may also need to use different methods to verify the information you receive, such as cross-checking with other sources, documents, or data.

2 Build trust and rapport

One of the most important factors in gathering information from difficult-to-reach sources is building trust and rapport with them. You need to show them that you are a professional and credible journalist who respects their privacy, safety, and consent. You also need to show them that you are interested in their perspectives and experiences, and that you are willing to listen and learn from them. You can build trust and rapport by being transparent about your identity, purpose, and intentions, by following ethical and legal standards, by being polite and empathetic, and by following up and keeping in touch.

3 Join or create networks and collaborations

Another way to gather information from difficult-to-reach sources is to join or create networks and collaborations with other journalists, organizations, or communities that share your interests and goals. By working together, you can leverage the collective resources, skills, and contacts of your network or collaboration, and access more sources and information than you could on your own. You can also benefit from the peer support, feedback, and advice of your network or collaboration, and improve the quality and impact of your stories. You can find or create networks and collaborations through online platforms, professional associations, or informal groups.

4 Use digital tools and techniques

In the digital age, there are many tools and techniques that can help you gather information from difficult-to-reach sources. For example, you can use social media monitoring tools to find and track sources who are active online, or use web scraping tools to extract and analyze data from websites. You can also use geolocation tools to verify the location of sources or events, or use reverse image search tools to check the authenticity of photos or videos. You can also use encryption tools to protect your communication and data from surveillance or hacking.

5 Be prepared and persistent

Finally, you need to be prepared and persistent when trying to gather information from difficult-to-reach sources. You need to do your research and homework before contacting your sources, and have a clear idea of what you want to ask them and why. You also need to be prepared for the risks and challenges that you may encounter, such as rejection, hostility, misinformation, or danger. You need to be persistent and follow up with your sources, but also respectful and courteous of their time and preferences. You need to be patient and flexible, and willing to adapt to changing circumstances and opportunities.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?