Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Meeting the Media

Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Person-to-person interview:

• Prepare• Practice• Control presentation• Portray positive image• Build a connection• Use body language

Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Before an interview:

• Prepare• Practice• Develop "sound bites"• Prepare background information• Visual aids

Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

During an interview

Non-verbal:• Good eye contact• Be natural• Look alert• Be aware of body language• Show enthusiasm• Smile

Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

During an interviewVerbal:• Speak clearly • Be discreet• Be polite, not passive• Avoid arguing• Avoid jargon• Stay focused• Meaningful statistics• Summarize

Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

After an interview:

• Thank reporter• Offer to answer questions• Be professional• Be courteous

Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

When you call a reporter:

• Present credentials• Explain organization• Ask about availability• Be confident• Deliver simple pitch• Get to the point

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When a reporter calls you:

• Answer as best you can• Prepare your own angle• Words and phrases to help reframe issue• If you don't know, give a reference

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Before TV or radio show find out:

• Format• Point of view• Host• Other guests• Allotted time• Audience

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On the air:

• Repeat main points• Bring notecards• Speak confidently• Use hand gestures• Encourage audience involvement• Watch yourself and learn

Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Media events are:

• Short• Simple• Visual• Events

Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Press conference essentials:

• Significant story• A lot of media representatives• Plenty of preparation time• Invitations• Big facility• Effective spokesperson• Clear story