In a time of Fake News, be Credible

Sourcing Credible Information

By Anj Handa

As a changemaker, you will need to be able to use and cite credible sources. Wikipedia doesn’t count! The definition of a credible source can be varied. In general, it is one that is unbiased and is backed up with evidence.

Doing this upfront research as you prepare your blog, talk or paper is important as any irregularities that are uncovered later can undermine the case that you are presenting.

I personally use models and techniques developed and tested by academics when designing my coaching and leadership development programmes. They may look simple on the surface but there is a lot of rigour behind them. Powerful learning doesn’t have to be complicated!

Even on social media, using discernment about what you share is important for maintaining your own credibility. Sites such as Snopes.com can help if you’re unsure. Additionally, this resource by easybib.com gives some useful pointers on what to consider when evaluating information.

In the professional world, there are many sources for you to find the information you need to support your messages. These include InfoTrac, LexisNexis, and Emerald Publishing.

Influence how academic content is sourced and used

I was recently part of a panel led by Emerald Publishing’s Research and Development team. They have been looking into getting a better understanding the experience of how academic content is sourced and used in the professional environment.

Emerald Publishing worked in partnership with Mustard Research to invite a select number of Emeralds’ customers and non-customers to take part in an exclusive online community project, with around 30 people taking part.

The community was live for a few weeks. During that time, a number of different discussions around particular themes were held. For example, we were asked for our views on academic content, the range of applicable uses, and how we both individually and as a company source content. The community offered the chance to speak to like-minded people in the industry about the things that matter to me.