Managing the Media - intensive workshop in media skills training

And while these executives undoubtedly have vast knowledge in their fields, they still find it extremely difficult to explain something in simple and succint terms, with the result that they often come across very badly.

With all the money our big corporates are spending on public relations, none of it seems to be going towards teaching spokespeople effective ways in which to develop a crucial and constructive working relationship with the media.

It's important to note that in the United States of America, no business executive will ever appear in the media without formal training and practise in both delivery and content. They know only too well that once they have said something, it's out there and can't be taken back.

Is the press snapping at your heels?
The phone rings, and out of the blue a journalist is on the line asking you some tricky questions about your company's activities. How on earth do you handle it? How do you make your point to adversarial and aggressive questions? Your company's reputation may depend on the answers you give.

The answer lies in a comprehensive programme on Media Skills Training

Conducted at the client's premises, the programme will kick off with an up-front evaluation of delegates' strengths and areas of development when interfacing with the media.

The evaluation will be followed by a segment entitled: Understanding the Media Mind.
Here, delegates will be provided with an insight into how the media works. We'll explore the nature of news, discuss media expectations; i.e.: what is - and what is not possible, and examine ways in which to attract media attention - or to stop the media machine if necessary.

Next on the day's agenda is a programme on Concise Communications.
Entitled Get to the Point, this workshop illustrates the fact that the more words there are, the more 'costly' the communication. In an already over-communicated society, your audience shouldn't have to wade through what is often a laborious thinking process to actually get the picture.

During this session, we'll:

Explode the common myths around communication

Focus on the tools and techniques necessary to create uncluttered messaging

Define our audience

Determine our key messages

Communicate in simple terms

The afternoon will be devoted to Presentation Skills Training, with an opportunity to be filmed in 'live' interview/presentation simulations by a hard news camera crew.

Presentation Skills Training deals with the tools required to cope effectively with telephone, print, radio and television interviews.

During this session, we'll examine:

Breathing and relaxation techniques

Posture

Body language

The best way to determine key points

The day will conclude with intensive interview skills training.
In The Art of an Interview, delegates will be provided with the unique opportunity to see what they look like on television, before venturing into a radio or television station. Each filmed interview simulation will be followed by detailed critiques.

This segment deals with the following areas:

Tips on how to talk to journalists

Preparing for the 'hot seat'

Using nervousness as a positive edge

How to present yourself and your organization to the best possible advantage

Staying on track

Getting to the point

Common mistakes to avoid at all costs