Media Training: Introductory
Media Interview Training: Introductory Session
Our Introductory Session is geared toward individuals with little-to-no formal media relations or communications experience or training, but who may be called upon to represent their organizations in the media or to play a part in the media relations process. This session, which can be delivered in full and half-day formats, is an excellent primer on the fundamentals of effective media relations with an emphasis on conducting more confident, successful media interviews.
What Participants Will Learn
How to craft compelling messages that will tell your company's story and resonate with reporters,
What reporters are looking for and how to use that information to your advantage,
Your 'rights' in a media interview and how to defend them,
A step-by-step guide for preparing for a media interview, (print, radio and TV),
Threats to effective media relations and how to overcome them,
Proven techniques for succeeding in media interviews and how you can master them,
How to write a news release that won't get deleted,
How to improve your organization's media relations processes,
And more.
*Session content can be customized to accommodate any specific requirements or learning objectives.
Agenda
The Introductory Media Training Session is divided into three main parts:
Laying the Foundation: In this engaging and interactive introduction, participants will learn the fundamentals of successful media relations and the real-world techniques for succeeding in media interviews. Includes entertaining case studies and video clips of cautionary tales and exemplary performances.
Hypothetical Interview Scenarios and Message Development: Each participant is given a detailed, customized interview scenario based on their specific role within their organization. Using the techniques they learned in the first part of the day, the group (with support from the facilitator), crafts their messages for their upcoming simulated media interviews. Messages are read aloud, stress-tested and improved prior to the interviews.
Simulated Media Interviews: Using the scenario and messages they've prepared for, each participant is interviewed in by a veteran journalist. Interviews, which can be conducted in print, radio and TV formats, are exceedingly realistic and are accompanied by a detailed analysis, including specific, constructive feedback and tips for improvement. We also use a full-size TV style video camera with professional lighting and hand-held mic for maximum realism.