FAQs about media

The following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about making the most of media can help you plan your media strategy:

What happens if a reporter contacts me?

Take time to prepare yourself. Offer to call back at a time that suits them. Before calling back write down three main points to discuss. Consider sensitive or provocative issues and provide well-reasoned rationale to manage them. Sending a written release with the main facts as a follow-up helps ensure accuracy.

What are some tips for being interviewed on radio?

Select the best spokesperson in your organization. Choose someone concise, yet entertaining. The quality, accent and timbre of their voice will impact on radio listeners' attention.

Provide your spokesperson with the three main messages you want promoted in written format. Try and insert a catchy, quirky or interesting quote. Remember that 10-15 second statements are the ones most commonly repeated in media, radio, television or the newspaper, or picked up as headlines.

How do I ensure information is reported accurately?

Managing good relationships can be beneficial in ensuring you are reported accurately and often.

Here are some ideas for building successful relationships with the media:

• send reporters a diary of your activities at the beginning of the year
• build rapport by inviting reporters to events you are holding
• hold media briefings to explain complicated theories or principles, ensuring there is time for questions. Make it a social as well as business occasion. Coffee and muffins are always acceptable!
• accompany any discussion with a written summary of the main points
• ensure you return calls from the media promptly
• have one point of contact within your organisation to facilitate media enquiries.