Tag: Media training

In some organizations, the CEO has a communications position that is focused solely on their communications. Their tasks often include handling media requests, writing speeches and managing the CEO’s social media channels, among other duties.

At the end of the day, their mission is to build and protect the CEO’s brand and not put themselves in the spotlight. However, that hasn’t been happening with Jordon Hudson, the girlfriend of University of North Carolina Head Football Coach Bill Belichick. She is currently serving as the de facto manager of “all activities related to Coach Belichick’s personal brand,” as described by UNC.

Continue reading “Addressing the Tar Heel in the Room” →

I’ve previously stated why media training is important. Today at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium, I sat on a panel that talked about messaging and saw firsthand what can go wrong.

A woman from the audience stood up to talk about her product, and it was clear that she was struggling. When asked twice about her qualifications in producing the product, she failed to truly answer the question, saying how the guy who came up with the idea didn’t want to deal with the liabilities and just wanted to sit in his basement and collect royalties.

I’m both surprised and not surprised by that response. How a person can’t even say something simple like “because I believe in this product’s value to society” is baffling, yet it happens ALL THE TIME.

I felt bad for this woman, because her inability to speak clearly and concisely was getting in the way of an otherwise wonderful product. That could hurt her in terms of marketing and attracting investors. I hope she hires a consultant to help her with her messaging strategy!

Missed opportunities.

That’s what I tell clients you can avoid with media training. Chances are interview opportunities are going to be far and few between. You don’t want to regret or waste those one or two sound bites you’re going to get.

I know many new and seasoned business owners who panic and/or don’t know what to do when a reporter calls–things like return calls promptly and speak on message.

Media training helps you emphasize your key talking points and avoid traps for all types of interviews, including on camera, live, radio and phone. As with any skill, practice and repetition makes perfect.

Here’s a test: Tell me clearly and succinctly what your company does (no slogans, no jargon). You’ll be surprised how difficult this question can be without training. If you think this is tough, imagine answering questions during a crisis!