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Where did you get this number?

Discussion in 'Journalism topics only' started by Mizzougrad96, May 27, 2007.

  1. Mizzougrad96

    Mizzougrad96 Active Member

    A lot of us use various resources to get phone numbers (cell or home). I know I've traded numbers with writers across the country multiple times where one of us gives the other a number and someone usually says, "You didn't get this from me..."

    A lot of times this leads to the question... "How did you get this number?"

    I'm curious what people say... I have a pretty good one that I've used for a few years now...
     
  2. Mizzougrad96

    Mizzougrad96 Active Member

    The line that I know a lot of people are using is...

    "A friend at ESPN gave it to me..."
     
  3. "Um, I'm a reporter."

    That always works for me.
     
  4. Frank_Ridgeway

    Frank_Ridgeway Well-Known Member

    Was working on something outside sports a few years ago. Guy didn't really want to be reached, was involved with something a lot of people wouldn't like. Says, "How did you get this number?" I say, "I checked the registration for your Web site and this number was on it." Pause. Long pause. Agrees to talk.
     
  5. Usually I say, "I'm a reporter and I don't reveal my sources."
    It comes off as a joke, but I'm also serious. I'm not going to burn someone who was kind enough to give me a phone number.
     
  6. John

    John Well-Known Member

    Men's room wall.
     
  7. Mystery_Meat

    Mystery_Meat Guest

    Men's roo ... dammit, John

    "So, Mr. Subject, I was told you could provide a good time?"
     
  8. John

    John Well-Known Member

    Funnier than mine.
     
  9. Mizzougrad96

    Mizzougrad96 Active Member

    One I played the jedi mind trick with a guy...

    "Someone who had it gave it to me..."

    Shit actually worked...
     
  10. zeke12

    zeke12 Guest

    Are we no longer telling people that we got their number when the AP sent them all out on the wire?
     
  11. buckweaver

    buckweaver Active Member

    You still have that list, too? ;D
     
  12. zeke12

    zeke12 Guest

    I think I have a copy somewhere.

    We had it hanging on the wall in my college newsroom, though.
     
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