How to Request a Correction From a Journalist

At the end of the day, all you can do is ask.

By Jennifer R. Farmer

You can give what you think is the perfect interview only to read the final story and spot a mistake. But what should you do? You can request a correction. Here’s how to do it.

What types of mistakes are fair game for a correction?

First, understand what types of mistakes are fair game for a correction. If there is a clear mistake – the reporter identifies you as the founder of the organization, when in fact you are not the founder, you may request a correction. If your name is misspelled, you should certainly request a correction. If the reporter misquotes you, you can request a correction. If a statistic is wrong or the wrong report is cited, you can request a correction. There could be a fundamental misrepresentation of data or misinterpretation of data, and you’ll want to request a change.

But keep in mind, a request is a request. It is not a mandate. We make requests of people all the time and sometimes they oblige and other times they do not. Understand that just because you ask for a correction doesn’t mean that the reporter or their editor will make it. For your part, you can make the request, while keeping in mind the long-term relationship you want to have with the reporter or outlet in question.  

Be kind when you request a correction

Next, remember to be kind when you request a correction. Mistakes happen and any one of us can get it wrong. Additionally, journalists are often juggling multiple stories and sources. Many do not go out of their way to jumble what you’ve shared. But it happens. Use the kindness you would want to receive when you get it wrong. And then give the journalist or their editor time to make the correction. They are not on our timeline; we are on theirs.

This is simple right? But what happens when there are no mistakes per se, but you see your words in print and don’t feel good about them? What happens when you believe your words were taken out of context? Can you request a correction then? In these scenarios, I always ask colleagues and clients, did you in fact say what the reporter is quoting you as saying? If so, the reporter did nothing wrong. It is not a reporter’s job to be overly concerned with contextualizing your quote – that is your job. Additionally, if you do not say it or imply it, a reporter cannot use it. If you believe something you say could be misinterpreted, it is better not to say it rather than to assume a reporter will “soften your words,” or explain what you meant.

Be mindful that the journalist has no obligation to make the change

Nevertheless, I don’t mind asking for a correction while being mindful that the journalist has no obligation to make the change. In many cases, however, it doesn’t hurt to ask. But I do believe it is important to bring colleagues and clients along, helping them understand how the media works and what types of things are suitable for corrections.

At the end of the day, the reporter and their editor have the latitude to accept or decline requests. But there is usually no harm asking, so long as the ask is respectful, and within the bounds of a legitimate mistake.

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