It’s important not just to think about what you say to a journalist, but the way you say it. This is one of the areas covered in the new book The M-factor: Media Confidence for Business Leaders and Managers by Course Director Tom Maddocks. Here are some of the points to remember:
1 Don’t Be Defensive
Believability and trust are at least as important as your message. If you come across as defensive, reporters and television and radio audiences may instinctively feel you are guilty in some way, or hiding something.
2 Be Open and Friendly
Think about your body language if you meet a journalist face to face. Try to communicate in an open, friendly style.
3 Don’t Assume You’re Off the Record
In difficult circumstances, ensure you remain as patient, friendly and polite as possible with journalists, even if they are asking difficult or aggressive questions, and are not courteous themselves.
