Correction or retraction?

Let’s get one thing sorted first: a correction is different to a retraction.

A retraction is when a journalist admits they had the story completely wrong. Retractions rarely happen and we advise not to ask for them – particularly if you have worked with a journalist on the story.

A correction – especially when factual errors are involved – is completely different. Here's the caution, though. If you do proceed, check first that it was not you who gave the journalist the wrong information to start with.

What you should do if there is a mistake?

Be sure the mistake was the journalist's fault.

Provide the correct information from the start. Own up if you haven’t. If you realise ahead of publication that you have provided wrong information, get onto the journalist as soon as you can.

Always tell the reporter about factual errors.

The one thing reporters and editors hate more than a mistake is a repeated mistake. Your job and responsibility is to try to make sure minor mistakes aren't repeated.

Don't be afraid.

Talk directly to the journalist. Reporters would much rather hear about their mistakes from you privately than from their boss or in a public forum. If you're rude, you will destroy whatever relationship you might have enjoyed.

Do not demand that a correction be run in the same space as the original story.

All media outlets have a standardized way for dealing with corrections. You probably won't like it, but it's not going to change. If all else fails, write a letter to the editor which corrects the information AND add to the debate or story.

How about not even asking for a correction?

Trust the reporter to do the right thing. The point is to make sure the correct information is published. 

MediaWise based this article on a piece in raglan.net