Meeting the press and giving interviews can make even the most seasoned communicator nervous, which is why media training is a must for everyone in the public eye these days. Whether you’re introducing a new product with a follow-up Q&A, attending a conference, on-live TV, or taking part in a satellite media tour – you’ll always need to be prepared to address the press.
We tell our media training clients that the best way to prepare is to practice, learn your audience and know what your key messages are before answering any questions. But, we also have a few other tips that can help you be at the top of your game during your next encounter with the press.
- Anticipate and practice difficult questions.
- Don’t be afraid to ask a question of the questioner to clarify the issue.
- It’s important to first acknowledge/answer the question before you bridge to another point on the subject.
- Use the “bridging” technique to turn negative questions into positive answers.
- Don’t dodge or evade questions. If you don’t know the answer, offer to come back once you’ve looked into it.
- Take advantage of the last question to either reiterate a key point or bring up information that hasn’t been asked yet.
- Preparation is key to feeling in control.
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Make Sure Your Media Message is On-Point. Learn More About CommCore’s Media Training Services
- Proactive media training for your entire organization in a classroom setting, either at your location or at our classrooms in New York and DC. Learn more about our Media Training Workshops.
- We also provide Virtual Media Training, which allows participants in various locations to participate via Skype or Zoom. Learn more about our Virtual Media Training.
- 1-On-1 Media Training & Consulting. CommCore executives have handled every type of media crisis and are here to help you respond to specific issues. Learn more about our 1-On-1 Media Training & Consulting.
Urgent Need? We’re Standing By
We staff the phones 24-7 and can put you in touch with the right person to help with your specific media challenge.
To schedule a training or get answers quickly, call us at (202) 659-4177 or email info@CommCoreConsulting.com
We can provide media training, urgently needed advice, and a proposal to help on an ongoing basis.