Muck rack survey: 28% of journalistsare using AI; 20% plan to explore it

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20 March 2024, 02:40PM

In Brief28% of surveyed journalists either use or plan to use AI for tasks like brainstorming and research.
Despite AI usage, 60% of newsrooms lack a policy regarding AI implementation.
Layoffs have affected one-third of organizations, leading 30% of journalists to explore job opportunities on LinkedIn.
CEO Gregory Galant emphasizes the need for increased support and funding in journalism to address compensation gaps.
The survey underscores the importance of social media in journalism, with Twitter being dominant, but some journalists seeking alternatives due to concerns.

Muck Rack Survey: 28% of Journalists Are Using AI; 20% Plan To Explore ItMuck Rack's State of Journalism report reveals that 28% of surveyed journalists use or plan to use AI, primarily for brainstorming and research. Despite this, 60% lack an AI use policy in their newsrooms. Challenges persist, with layoffs impacting one-third of organizations, prompting 30% to seek job opportunities on LinkedIn.
CEO Gregory Galant emphasizes the need for more support and funding in journalism, noting a compensation gap despite heavy workloads. Social media remains crucial, with over half of journalists using it for story production and promotion. Twitter is dominant, but some seek alternatives due to usage concerns.
The survey highlights the PR-journalist relationship, with 46% receiving six or more pitches daily. However, relevance issues lead to a lack of response from 49% of journalists, emphasizing the importance of targeted, concise pitches.
Conducted from January to February 2024, the survey gathered responses primarily from U.S.-based journalists, with representation from Asia, Africa, and Europe. Muck Rack collaborated with nine research partners, including the Society of Professional Journalists and the American Press Institute, to distribute the survey.
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It’s a difficult time for many journalists with layoffs and buyouts happening far too often, and our research found a gap between workload and compensation, with most journalists working overtime and wages stagnating. Using AI for tasks like research and brainstorming may help offset shrinking newsrooms, but more support and funding are needed to ensure a free and independent press endures.
Gregory Galant
Muck Rack aids organizations in building trust and showcasing the value of earned media. With intuitive technology and comprehensive data, Muck Rack assists in media database management, monitoring, and reporting for effective communication and PR strategies.