How PR pros can help clients handle an unexpected media inquiry
Your clients or execs might be surprised, even to the point of distress, by a phone call from a journalist seeking comments or insights. Offer this guidance to help them seize the opportunity.
Why does a reporter’s call petrify us?
It’s human nature to feel put on the spot when you get a call out of the blue from a newsroom. After all, most of us aren’t used to speaking with journalists every day, especially on the fly, so it might feel unnatural, even disquieting.
Instead of avoiding the reporter, what can we do to feel more comfortable if caught off guard by a news media inquiry? Try these techniques to prepare yourself, even in a very brief amount of time, to talk with journalists:
1. Breathe. If you get a call or email from a reporter asking for your comments, the first thing to do is take a breath. Don’t feel you have to answer immediately. If the reporter is on deadline, be mindful of that, but you probably have a little time to collect yourself before returning their call. A thoughtful response is always better than a rushed one.
2. Contact your PR team. You’ll want to hop on a call or meet with your PR point person, who can help you prepare to return the reporter’s message.
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