This tool can help you find and get in touch with citizens of different nationalities in your area
France, the UK and Germany are just some of the European countries that will be holding general elections in 2017, so reporters have to research thoroughly to ensure their coverage will reflect a range of backgrounds and opinions.
But if travelling abroad for an interview or a feature on voter concerns and expectations isn't an option, how can journalists find sources in their local area?
Paul Bradshaw, who runs the MA in Multiplatform and Mobile Journalism at Birmingham City University, has written a post on his Online Journalism Blog on finding local sources using Facebook Graph, a tool that locates people based on their interests.
He explains how journalists can use the tool's URL field and Facebook ID number of individuals to search nearby, and highlights the importance of going beyond the first few pages of results to find people you aren't already connected to.
And if you become worried by "how much Facebook knows about you", Bradshaw's tutorial also includes a link to a guide from the Electronic Freedom Foundation on protecting your privacy on Facebook Graph.
If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).
Sign up to receive job alerts of your choice by email, or manage your subscription
Featured recruiter: click to view its vacancies
The UK’s largest independent investigative journalism organisation seeks a fact checker with proven experience in fact-checking or editing journalistic content, ideally investigations. Hybrid working
Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news, tips, jobs and more
End that deadline stress today and find help in our freelance directory
Personal trainer James Hilton has launched a podcast 'Jim's Gym - Inspiring Movement'. James, a specialist in biomechanics and injury recovery from the Cotswolds, runs Jim's Gym, a virtual online space supporting people over 55 to be more active
Our next Newsrewired conference will be in May 2025, London.
Conferences and study weeks are fantastic opportunities to get the latest updates on the industry and network with your peers
Awards are a great way to have your hard work recognised by industry experts and celebrate your teams. Here is where you can apply
If you find your social feeds a tad too heavy on men's voices, follow and connect with these fantastic women experts on indie media
How do you move print readers to digital? Are there other ways to hold on to subscribers besides a last-ditch deal?