Media training doesn't have to be lengthy or expensive. It does need to fit your precise needs. If you have been trained previously maybe you need just a couple hours of on-camera practice or perhaps a virtual refresher session. If you are a first-timer, as many of our clients are, here are a few suggestions to get the most out of your media training session...
- Approach the training with an open mind.
- Don't be embarrassed if you make mistakes when it's your turn on camera. During playback of your mock interviews you will see firsthand where you went wrong and your trainer will give you correction tips.
- Dress professionally so you can see how you would appear in an actual TV interview. Some colors and patterns work better than others on camera.
- Have room-temperature water within reach. It's better for your vocal cords than an ice cold beverage.
- Don't snack on anything that might catch in your throat (like peanuts).
- If you are taking a group session, encourage your colleagues and hopefully they will do the same for you.
Why should an executive, business owner, or other professional consider media training in the first place? There are many reasons:
- You are about to launch a new product or service and want media coverage. The trouble is you are camera-shy and afraid you'll blow it.
- The media has burned you in the past and you haven't done a media interview since then. That means you are missing out on opportunities to share your messaging with a wider audience.
- You work in a high-risk industry and you don't feel fully prepared to face the media should a crisis occur.
- Your social media posts have gone "off message" and you want to get back on track.
- You'd like to blog about a cause that's important to you but you need help with messaging to get started.
- You'd like to be the go-to expert in your field that journalists turn to over and over.
As the year winds down and you take stock of yourself and your business, remember that social and traditional media can be used to your advantage. It just takes preparation and practice.
Women Media Pros' media training options
