Facebook offers a way for journalists and news organizations to verify their identities and get access to tools and features for journalists. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to register as a journalist on Facebook.
Requirements for Registering as a Journalist on Facebook
To register as a journalist on Facebook, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a journalist representing a recognized news organization
- You must provide documentation to prove your identity as a journalist
- Your news organization must have an official website or prominent online presence
Facebook reviews all journalist registration requests to ensure applicants meet these requirements. You cannot register as a journalist just for personal use of Facebook.
Step 1: Go to the Facebook Journalists Registration Page
The first step is to navigate to the Facebook page for journalist registration:
https://www.facebook.com/journalists/registration
This is where you can start the process of submitting a request to register as a journalist.
Step 2: Click “Register Now” to Begin Registration
On the Facebook Journalists Registration page, click the blue “Register Now” button to begin the registration process.
This will open up a form where you can provide details about yourself and your news organization.
Step 3: Fill Out Your Personal Details
In the registration form, first provide the following personal details:
- Your full name
- Your phone number
- Your email address
Make sure to use your work email address associated with your news organization.
Step 4: Provide News Organization Details
Next, provide the following details about your news organization:
- Name of the news organization
- Your job title/role
- News organization website URL
Your news organization must have an official online presence for its website URL.
Step 5: Upload Documentation
To validate your identity, you need to upload 2-3 forms of documentation. Facebook recommends uploading:
- Work ID badge
- Trade association membership card
- Professional license
- Press pass
The documentation must clearly identify you as a journalist representing your news organization.
Step 6: Agree to the Terms
Review and agree to Facebook’s terms for journalist registration, which outline proper use of tools, features, and information you may access.
Step 7: Click Submit
Once you have filled out all fields and uploaded documentation, click the “Submit” button to complete your registration request.
Step 8: Wait for Facebook to Review Your Request
After submitting your registration request, Facebook will review your details and documentation to verify you meet the requirements.
This process can take up to a week in some cases.
Step 9: Check Your Email for a Decision
Once Facebook finishes reviewing your registration request, you will receive an email notifying you of the decision.
If approved, the email will provide instructions for accessing Facebook tools and features for journalists.
If declined, the email will explain why you did not meet the requirements for journalist registration.
Benefits of Registering as a Journalist on Facebook
Here are some of the key benefits journalists get after successfully registering on Facebook:
- Journalist Badge – Verified journalists get a badge on their Facebook profile identifying them as registered with Facebook.
- Access to Tools – Journalists get access to tools like CrowdTangle to analyze trends and news on Facebook.
- Dedicated Support – Registered journalists get access to dedicated Facebook support for issues related to their news organization.
- Early Access – Facebook occasionally gives journalists early access to new features before public release.
Tips for Smooth Registration Process
Use these tips to ensure your Facebook journalist registration goes smoothly:
- Provide your full legal name used for your journalism work.
- Use a work email address and phone number from your news organization.
- Make sure documentation clearly shows your journalist role and affiliation.
- Your news organization should have an established online presence and history.
- Respond promptly if Facebook contacts you asking for more details.
Registration Issues and Troubleshooting
Some common issues that can come up during Facebook journalist registration:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Rejected for personal Facebook account | Ensure you are using a work email associated with your news organization when registering. |
| Unable to upload documentation | Documentation must be under 8MB in size and one of the accepted file types like JPG, PNG, PDF. |
| No response after 1 week | Wait at least 1 week as stated for Facebook’s review. If still no response, contact Facebook support. |
| News organization not recognized | Ensure your news organization has a properly identified online presence like a website. |
If you run into an error or issue not listed here, your best bet is to contact Facebook’s dedicated journalist support for help resolving it.
Conclusion
Registering as a journalist on Facebook simply involves submitting a request with your personal/professional details and documentation proving your journalism role. Make sure to meet all Facebook’s requirements for a smooth approval process. Registration gives journalists access to tools, support, and extras to help with reporting news on Facebook.