By Deo ODIE

INTRO TO PRESS PACK

Outline

• By the end of this session, the participant should be able to;

a. Identify an appropriate tool for use when need be

b.Have gained skills to articulately employ the various tools.

c. Understand and have strategies to overcoming the short comings of the tools.

Intro to P-Pack

• It is a package of tools vital for any individuals or organizations planning to work with the media.

• The pack will be most useful for those with limited experience of working with the media or who do not have a media unit.

The kit includes the following:

• Developing and reviewing media policies,

• Effective use of media releases,

• Preparing and conducting interviews with the media.

Developing and reviewing media policies

A media policy is a useful tool that can support an approach to media communications that is consistent with both the stated aims and position of the organization and best practice principles for reporting suicide, mental health and mental illness.

Whether your organization intends to actively seek media coverage, respond to media requests for information or just respond to media coverage, it is worth taking the time to put together a media policy.

Considerations for putting together a Media Policy

Ensure consistency with umbrella organizations Outline the organization's plan and goals for working with

the media Outline organizational infrastructure for working with the

media. Identify who within the organization is authorized to

speak to the media. Identify the actions individuals should take when

approached by the media. Outline procedures for authorized individuals managing

media requests. Outline any other relevant policies. Ensure consistency with best practice principles as

outlined in this resource.

Effective use of Media Releases

A media release is the most common way to pitch a story to the media.

An effective media release will include key messages and alert the media to a story, raising enough interest for them to want to find out more.

Send your release by fax or email.Follow up with a phone call to offer

further information or a spokesperson for interview or photo opportunities.

Content of a P. Release… Give the release a short clear heading, to grab attention. The first paragraph should be a self-contained summary of the

most important points of the story. Try to answer the questions, who, what, where, and when if not also why and how.

The paragraphs following should contain the remainder of information in order of importance. Paragraphs should be only one or two sentences.

Write in a simple and concise manner with short sentences (less than 15 words), containing one idea.

Use simple language and avoid jargon or abbreviations. Quotes (with sources) from noteworthy or prominent people,

statistics and photographs will add to the appeal of your release. Make sure your information is accurate and proof read.

Format of a Release Use A4 paper, letterhead if available. If you do not have

access to letterhead put your contact details at the top right hand corner of the page.

Use normal upper and lower case type and double spacing (or 1.5) in between lines of text. Only use one side of the paper and allow ample margins at the top and bottom of the page.

Put MEDIA RELEASE, at the top of the page in the centre in bold capitals. Put the date of issue and either FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, or any embargo at the top right of the page.

(Embargo means that the media shouldn’t act on the information until the date specified.)

The release should be only one page in total. Include the name and contact details of people who can

be contacted for further information at the bottom. Identified contact people must be available out of hours.

Interviews With The MediaInterviews can be an effective way to get

your messages into the media. They may also be challenging and may

not always have the desired outcome. Each approach from the media for

interview should be considered individually and thought given as to whether or not to participate.

If a decision is taken to participate in an interview time should be invested in planning to achieve the best possible outcome.

When are you ready for an interview?

• Are able to manage your feelings about the issue and aren’t at risk of becoming too angry or upset;

• Are not too personally involved with the issue being reported;

• Have time to prepare and is authorized to participate;

• Are currently well and believe that participating will not cause you unmanageable stress;

• Have good support, feel confident about talking to the media about the subject matter;

• Feel your right to privacy will be respected;

• Trust the motives of the journalist will fit with your reasons for wanting to do the interview, are comfortable with the effect your participation may have on your family or community.

If you are not confident of any of the above issues it may be better to wait and participate at another time.

Handling Tricky Questions

• Ask the interviewer to clarify difficult, ambiguous or leading questions.

• Instead of saying ‘no comment’, say that you are unable to answer the question and give a reason why, e.g. ‘That is out of my area of experience.’

• Skirt questions rather than refusing to answer, make passing reference to the question and then direct your response to broader issues or new information.

• If a story is about adverse events, do not give unnecessary information that may worsen the situation, e.g. Do not give added details about a suicide death.

• Avoid answering ‘what if’ questions.

• Try to keep coming back to your three main points.

Any Questions?

Thanks