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Nominal wages in Germany recorded a remarkable 6.6% year-on-year increase in Q2 2023, the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) announced today. This marks the highest increase in nominal wages for a reporting quarter since records began in 2008, while consumer prices rose by 6.5% over the same period. As a result, real wages posted a modest 0.1% year-over-year increase, marking the first increase since Q2 2021.
This development was made possible by a combination of factors. A decisive contribution came from the inflation compensation premium, which can amount to up to 3,000 euros and is tax- and duty-free. Employers pay this premium on a voluntary basis. Likewise, the increase in the minimum wage to 12 euros per hour in October 2022 contributed to this positive trend.
The nominal wage increase for marginally employed persons was particularly impressive, at 9.7% compared with the same period last year. This is largely due to the increase in the mini-job earnings threshold from €450 to €520 per month from October 1, 2022, as well as the minimum wage increase. Part-time workers (+7.2%) and apprentices (+8.4%) also recorded above-average wage increases. By contrast, nominal wages of full-time employees rose slightly below average by 6.3%. Within full-time employees, however, the bottom fifth of the wage scale recorded the strongest increases, averaging +11.8%.
An interesting finding from the data is also the wage growth in sectors heavily affected by the Corona crisis. In the hospitality sector, nominal wages increased by an impressive 12.6% compared to Q2 2022, while similarly large increases were seen in the arts, entertainment and recreation (+11.9%) and transportation and warehousing (+10.0%) sectors. These increases can largely be viewed as catch-up effects, as these sectors were hit hard by lockdowns and short-time work during the pandemic.
A closer analysis of the various sectors shows that pre-crisis wage levels - as measured by the nominal wage index in Q2 2019 - have been regained almost everywhere. A few exceptions are motor vehicle manufacturing, other transport equipment manufacturing, and aerospace.
The new earnings indexes beginning with the 2023 reporting year are based on the improved earnings survey, which provides more comprehensive coverage of employment types and economic sectors. As a result, the data provide a more accurate and comprehensive representation of wage growth and its interrelationships in the German economy as a whole.
In the aggregate, the new earnings indices indicate that the German economy is growing at a faster pace.
Overall, the current data suggest that German workers have experienced a slight increase in their purchasing power despite general inflation and economic uncertainties. This could have positive implications for consumption and economic stability, while the sustainability of this development should continue to be monitored.
A well-written press release is an effective tool to present your company, event or news to the public. It enables you to spread your message in a targeted manner and to attract the interest of media representatives and the target audience. In this article, we will show you step by step how to write a professional press release that attracts attention and successfully spreads your information.
Step 1: Define target group and objectives
Before you start writing, it is important to be clear about your target audience and your objectives. Who do you want to read the press release, and what information do you want to convey? Identify your core message and determine what response you expect from readers.
Step 2: Determine structure
A well-structured press release is easier to read and understand. Use the classic format of stating the most important information first. The structure includes the following sections:
Headline: A concise and meaningful headline that piques interest and contains the key message.
Introduction: A short introductory paragraph that answers the W questions (Who, What, When, Where, Why). Body: Detailed information, facts, and background. Present the main points first and then move on to more details.
Quote: include a powerful quote from a representative of your organization to add a personal touch to the message.
Conclusion: summarize the key points and include contact information for follow-up questions.Step 3: Use understandable language
Avoid jargon and complicated terms that are difficult for the general public to understand. Write clearly, concisely and simply to ensure your message is well conveyed.
Step 4: Emphasize newsworthiness
Make sure your press release actually has news or relevant news value. Journalists receive many releases every day, and your writing needs to be interesting enough to get noticed.
Step 5: Prove the facts
Your press release should be well-researched and include facts and statistical data to convey credibility. Back up your statements with reliable sources to gain readers' trust.
Step 6: Keep it short
Keep your press release short and concise. Ideally, do not exceed one page. Long text can be off-putting and dilute the main message.
Step 7: Provide contact information
At the end of the press release, provide contact information for someone from your organization who can be reached for questions. This can be a spokesperson or someone responsible for the topic at hand.
Step 8: Proofread
Before sending the press release, carefully check it for spelling errors, grammar and coherence. An error-free text shows professionalism and care.
Step 9: Distribution and follow-up
Send your press release to relevant media outlets and publishing platforms. Follow up on the release and be ready for possible follow-up questions or interviews.
By following these steps, you can create a professional press release that appeals to your target audience and attracts the attention you want. A well-thought-out and compelling release can go a long way toward successfully spreading your message and raising awareness of your company or event.
Introduction
Press photographers are indispensable players in the media landscape. Their job is to visually capture current events, news and stories and present them to the global public. These highly skilled photographers often face challenges ranging from securing the best shots under time constraints to maintaining ethics and sensitivity in their reporting. This article highlights the fascinating and varied work of press photographers and their role in the modern news world.
The role of press photographers in the media
Press photographers play a critical role in covering current events and stories. Their images often convey emotions, moods and the immediate impression of an event. A single image can be worth a thousand words and reach readers on an emotional level. Whether it's political protests, natural disasters or cultural events, press photographers are responsible for sending the world on a visual journey that puts us right in the middle of the action.
The work of press photographers also helps raise public awareness of important issues. Images can draw people's attention to social issues, drive political change, or capture historical moments for eternity. Press photographers' visual representations are critical to making complex issues more understandable and accessible.
Challenges for press photographers
The work of press photographers is not without its challenges. They often have to work in dangerous or unpredictable environments to capture images of crises, conflicts or disasters. The risk of putting themselves in harm's way to get the perfect shot is ever-present. It takes courage and determination to stand your ground in such situations.
In addition, press photographers are often under enormous time pressure. They must think and act quickly to capture the decisive moment before it is over. In a world where news is disseminated in real time, photographers must deliver their images to editors immediately to remain relevant. Competition among photographers is intense as everyone fights to get the exclusive image that will dominate the headlines.
Ethics and responsibility
Press photographers have a great responsibility, as their images can influence the understanding and perception of events. It is critical that they perform their work with ethics and sensitivity. The integrity of reporting must be maintained at all times, and the privacy of individuals must be respected. There is a fine line between informative reporting and sensationalist photojournalism, and it is important to respect the boundaries.
Manipulation and falsification of images are strictly prohibited in press photography and can have serious consequences for the credibility and reputation of photographers. The public trusts that the images they see reflect reality, and photographers must live up to that trust.
The Art of Press Photography
Although press photographers primarily cover current events, their work is often considered an art form. Through their creativity and technical skills, they can create influential images that have a lasting impact. The choice of composition, perspective and exposure can have a significant impact on the emotional and informative potential of a photograph. An image can change the world if it is captured in a way that touches people and makes them think.
Press photographers can also choose abstract and artistic approaches to tell their stories. Photography as an art form opens up the opportunity for them to play with light, shadow and color and convey their message in a poetic way. This creative freedom gives photographers the opportunity to bring their personal vision to bear and present readers with images that will stay with them for a long time.
Technological developments
With the advent of digital technologies, the way press photographers work has changed dramatically. The rapid availability of cameras and the ability to transmit images instantly have increased the pressure on photographers to document current events in real time. Social media has also accelerated the distribution of photos, resulting in tremendous reach for their work. Still, press photographers must deal with the impact of digitization and ensure that the authenticity of their images is maintained.
Despite technological advances, the importance of craftsmanship and photography expertise remains. Press photographers must continue to hone their technical skills and sharpen their ability to capture the right moment.
Conclusion
The work of press photographers is vital to the news industry and society as a whole. They ensure that important events and stories are properly documented and made available to the public. Their images have the power to stir emotions, convey information and raise awareness about global issues. Press photography is a fascinating combination of information and art that plays an important role in shaping our perception of the world. The work of press photographers is a marriage between harsh reality and artistic expression. While they have a duty to provide objective and informative images, they can also use their photographic skills to tell powerful visual stories.
The work of press photographers is a constant pursuit of the perfect shot. They must not only master the technical aspects of photography, such as exposure, focus and composition, but also develop an understanding of the stories and events they are documenting. This requires keen observation skills, the empathy to capture people's emotions, and the ability to anticipate the moment and react to it in a timely manner.
Photography is also a means of freezing time and capturing moments that might otherwise be forgotten. Historical events, political upheavals, social movements - all these aspects of history are often preserved for posterity through the lens of press photographers. Their images become testaments to the times, enabling future generations to understand and learn from the past.
Press photographers must interact with a variety of people, from those involved in the midst of events to other journalists, editors and the public. Good communication and interpersonal skills are therefore just as important as photographic expertise. Photographers must behave respectfully and responsibly to gain the trust and approval of the people they are photographing.
In today's digital era, the proliferation of images has reached unprecedented speeds. Photos can be shared on social media and news portals with a single click, spreading around the world at lightning speed. While this facilitates access to information, it also poses risks, as images can be taken out of context and manipulated. Press photographers must therefore be careful to ensure that their images are correctly labeled and not distorted or altered.
The work of press photographers has also changed in light of economic challenges. The decline of printed newspapers and the rise of online journalism have led to financial cuts. Many photographers work freelance or as part of smaller teams and must be creative to market their work and earn enough income.
Despite all these challenges, the work of press photographers remains vital to democracy and the maintenance of an informed society. Their images serve as gatekeepers of truth and ensure that important events are not forgotten. Photography is a universal language that needs no words to move people and make them think.
In a world awash in information and images, the role of press photographers as gatekeepers of truth and guardians of history is invaluable. Their work allows us to see and understand the world as it really is, providing us with visual stories that can touch, inspire and sometimes shake us. The work of press photographers is therefore not only a vocation, but also an obligation to society, which they fulfill with their unique talent and passion.
To get in touch with journalists or editors, there are several ways. Here are some steps you can follow:
Research: Identify the appropriate journalist:s or editor:s for the topic you want to talk about. Look at the articles they have written in the past to make sure they are relevant to what you want to talk about.
Media Website: Visit the website of the media organization for which the journalist(s) or editor(s) work. There you will often find contact details, including email addresses or contact forms.
Social media: Many journalists and editors are active on platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn or Facebook. You can try to contact them through these channels. However, be sure to remain respectful and professional.
Email: If you have the journalist:s email address, you can write them a short, concise email introducing your issue and explaining why it is relevant to them and their readership.
Phone: In some cases, a phone call may be a good option to speak directly with the person. Make sure you do your research and prepare well before you call.
Press release: If you have something important or interesting to share, you can also write a press release and send it to the relevant media. Note that press releases should have a clear structure and contain important information in a compact way.
Events: Sometimes you can meet journalists or editors at events, conferences or press events. Use these opportunities to introduce yourself and start a conversation.
Network: Expand your network and join various journalistic associations or industry events. This will increase your chances of making contacts with journalists or editors.
It is important that you remain polite, clear and respectful in your communication. Journalists often receive many inquiries, so it is important that you present your request in a concise and understandable manner. Remember that not every contact attempt will be successful, but persevere if you have an important story or information to share.
To get in touch with press agencies, there are several ways that can vary depending on your goals and needs. Here are some steps you can follow:
Research: identify potential press agencies that fit your topic, industry or geographic area. Search for agencies that have worked with similar companies or topics to ensure they have the appropriate expertise.
Search contact information: Visit the websites of the agencies you select to find their contact information. Most agencies have a "Contact Us" or "About Us" page on their website where you will find the appropriate information.
Contact by phone: If you have the agency's phone number, you can call directly to express your interest in working with them or getting press coverage. Make sure to briefly introduce yourself and explain the reason for your call.
Email contact: The most common method of contacting press agencies is by email. Write a concise and well-worded email introducing yourself, explaining your company or project, and describing your request. Make sure your email is personal and engaging. Avoid mass emails.
Social media: many press agencies are also active on social media platforms. You can try reaching out to them through their social media channels or send them a direct message.
Press Release: If you have an important event, product release or news that you want to spread, you can write a press release and send it to different press agencies. Make sure the press release is well-structured and interesting.
Network: Attend industry events, conferences or networking events where representatives from press agencies might be present. Use these opportunities to make personal contacts.
Subscribe to press distribution lists: Some press agencies offer the option to sign up for their press distribution list. This will automatically send you press releases and information on current topics that may be relevant to your business.
It is important that you always behave in a polite and professional manner. Working with press agencies can be very important for your company's public relations and media presence, so respectful interaction is essential.