What is Media Training, the 2020 Version

The HMA team regularly provides media training to our clients.  As Alison shared in her blog post on the topic, these sessions provide the client spokespeople with the tools and techniques to effectively manage any media relations situation.   The three-hour workshop includes an overview of the media, what reporters are looking for in a source, and the development of the client’s key messages.  After a review of the messaging, we put the designated spokespeople on camera and practice what was discussed followed by a brief overview.

A few years ago, we added in a telephone interview practice session as well.  So many reporters these days, with limited time and resources, are conducting more and more interviews over the phone.  These practice sessions give the clients an opportunity to get comfortable with this interview process.

And now our 2020 version of our media training will include tips and tricks for video interviews via such platforms as Skype, Zoom, TEAMS and GoToMeeting.

As newsrooms have adjusted to the more virtual workplace and finding that their interviews can be done via one of these online platforms, it stands to reason that this trend will continue long past the COVID-19 social distancing guidelines that we are all currently following.

And with a webcam and mic, interviewees can really be anywhere and provide good content to the media.  That will bode well for clients with good stories to tell and will certainly bode well for reporters looking for valuable resources.