ABSTRACT
The first step in a cross-border story is to have a clear idea. Cross-border stories can be divided into four categories, and these categories provide a good starting point for the selection of topics. The categories are presented here. Answers are suggested to the overarching practical question: “How to develop a global outlook” It is argued that journalists need to understand larger societal developments as a necessary context for their work. Further, journalists need to understand the concept of their profession as it is practised in different parts of the world. As examples of such concepts, this chapter presents the notions of the “reporter” and the “publicist”. Throughout, examples from journalism practice are cited, including the development of story ideas from international datasets. Finally, some guidance is given on how to identify priorities among potential story ideas.
