In this modern age of Wikileaks, it's a highly competitive game of wits to deal with your sources and make sure that the strongest version of your story gets out there.
Source: rawstory.com
Here are some guidelines on how to handle any of your sources, so they don't end up handling you.
#1. Always make your identity as a journalist crystal clear.
To do otherwise is to deceive others, and this will not get us the tightest most concise story we can possibly get. This is also personally unsafe, as if your cover is blown your life may be in danger.
When you tell people your a journalist, they will mostly tend to open up and give you exaggerated details.
But saying this, there are a few exceptions where you would hide your identity; for example in an investigative journalism case.
#2. Always play fair with your sources.
Just like in real life, a pot of honey catches more flies that a pot of vinegar. Always treat your sources with respect, and in no way bully them or intimidate them. If you are accusing them of wrong-doing, then always give them time to respond back in a timely manner. There might be something you've overseen.
Source: aljazeera.com
#3. Copy Approval.
Always allow the source to see your finished article, as this allows any factual errors to be cleared up quickly. Try to show them a 'draft' as you may be able to extract even more information by involving them in this process.
But remember, you are not giving them copy approval but more an errors-free approval.
#4. Retraction.
Sometimes a source will say something they wish they hadn't and may try to retract what they said, so always give them time and space to do this.
All we need to do is keep our wisdom to make sure that no subterfuge is taking place.
So my fellow Steemian journalists, do enjoy a highly competitive game of wits with both your sources, and the general public.
P.S. Coming soon ... GLOBAL JOURNALIST Part #2: Where Do Interesting News Stories Comes From?