Who needs media training?

There are plenty of reasons why organizations put off media training.

“We don’t really get that many requests.”

“We’ve already done media training a few years ago, we don’t need it.”

“Our CEO handles all interviews and they’ve been trained.”

“We are just too busy right now.”

It’s understandable, especially when there are plenty of other areas they can put their time and resources into. That said, putting off media training means you could be left in a tough position if your organization is hit with some unexpected news. It also means you’re likely missing opportunities to communicate your message by only taking a reactive approach to media relations.

So, who on your team needs media training? It’s likely more than you’d think.

Beyond the Spokesperson

In the age of social media, anyone with a phone can break, create, and shape a story. That means they likely won’t follow normal journalistic practices, especially if there is emotion involved, and any member of your team could become stuck in a situation where they’re forced to represent your organization.

Are they ready?

Developing and Following a Media Protocol

Making sure your team is ready involves more than telling them what to say and how to say it; they also need to know what to do.

If a reporter reaches out, who becomes the point of contact?

Who ensures any answer is accurate?

How quickly should we respond?

Should we respond at all?

What You Say…

With any media opportunity, developing your key messages is crucial. Having well-researched and refined messages helps your team deliver your organization’s message effectively, making it easier for the spokesperson to address unexpected questions confidently.

…and How You Say It.

Practice makes perfect. Like any skill, you get better at giving an interview or responding to questions the more you do it. The more you practice the more confidence you build, and that will help you better deliver your organization’s message.

Langer Public Affairs provides media training for groups or individuals, both in-person and virtually. Our training sessions include theory, practical exercises, recorded one-on-one interviews for all participants, and interview feedback following the session. To learn more about our services, please contact us at contact@langerpa.com.