Media Training
There are two situations that will make the media want to talk to someone from your company.
- When you have done something positive that they find interesting (new technology, new partnership, unique service or product offering and you have been effectively positioned as an "expert").
- When something has happened that you don't want them to cover (lawsuit, bankruptcy protection, labour dispute).
With the right approach, the media can be an important asset to your company. Ignored or disregarded, it can hurt your company's reputation and your bottom line.
AHA demystifies the media process with our clients through training on real world situations and scenarios so that when the time comes to deal with media (whether you want to or not) you and your key personnel are prepared.
At AHA, we have extensive knowledge of how the media works. In fact, partner Ruth Atherley spent more than 15 years as a journalist and has reported and written for many national publications. We understand how to effectively communicate our client's message to the media. We also know what the media needs to know in order to do their job. Media relations is all about managing the situation and expecting the unexpected.
From dealing with an aggressive reporter looking for a specific angle, to having a clear and concise message to deliver, our media training will prepare the professional for their interactions with the media.
We role-play on videotape so that participants understand and experience the process of an interview. Often apprehension comes from simply not knowing what to expect. We also work on creating the 'human factor' so that a connection can be made with the interviewer and with the audience listening to, reading, or watching the coverage. From body language to addressing challenging questions, AHA will prepare you to engage and succeed through your interactions with the media.
Our media training services include:
- Half and full day group media training workshops, with videotaped role-playing interviews, development of key messages and written feedback.
- One-on-one media training with videotaped role-playing interviews, development of key messages, and written feedback.
- Issues and crisis communication media training and coaching.
- Specific campaign media training and coaching.