Don't Get Stuck On Stupid, Reporters

For anyone who has ever had troublesome dealings with the media, the gold star moment in September has come from three star US General Russel Honore.

While briefing reporters in New Orleans ahead of Hurricane Rita, the General was firm in letting the reporters know that the most important issue was outlining the evacuation procedures for the flood soaked city.

From the transcript:
"You're asking last storm questions for people who are concerned about the future storm. Don't get stuck on stupid, reporters. We are moving forward. And don't confuse the people please. You are part of the public message. So help us get the message straight. And if you don't understand, maybe you'll confuse it to the people. That's why we like follow-up questions. But right now, it's the convention center, and move on. "

The General's style may have been rather assertive - very few people could get away with "don't get stuck on stupid" - but he does provide an excellent object lesson for anyone who wishes to deal with the media.

Top 5 Press Conference Tips
1. Be calm, confident and exude authority.
2. Know your message and support your messages with statistics andfacts
3. Repeat your message often
4. Bring off-topic questions back to your message
5. Be correct. If the reporter has the wrong message or is going off on a tangent bring them back to the right message politely and firmly

Special offer for October: Business Communications Management is offering Media Risk Management and Training workshops for only $495 for groups of two. That's half price.

Normally our Media Training workshops are $495 per person. The sessions are ideal for senior executives and business owners and give a grounding in the following areas:

1. How The Newsroom Works
2. Preparing Your Message For The Media
3. Staging A Media Launch
4. Surviving The Front Line
5. Interview Techniques for Print, Radio and TV

The workshop is three hours in duration and includes an exclusive Media Training Work Book.To book your place, call Jeanette during office hours on (07) 5591 8081 or by e-mail: enquiries@bcm-online.com.au

Additional note: Anyone who would like to see the video of General Honore in action, just drop us a line!

UPDATE: Those enterprising Americans have turned the good General's phrase into a marketing opportunity.