Media training is one of the most valuable communication tools a company has. If a spokesperson can deliver an effective, powerful message, she will be able to generate positive buzz in the media and deliver a lasting impression on consumers. Media training can help you manage your words, tone, and body language in a way that accurately reflects your brand image. It also helps you organize your thoughts so you’re ready to respond to questions and handle audiovisual media like TV cameras, cell phones with video capabilities, and still cameras, and teaches you the best way to deliver key messages in a convincing and engaging way.
You learn how to navigate tough interviews without getting tripped up or making an embarrassing mistake. You’ll also be able to create your own opportunities by offering sound bites that will make their way into the media. There are many different types of spokespeople. Some are seasoned professionals who are used to dealing with the media on a regular basis; others have never had any experience speaking publicly. Both groups can benefit from media training, but it’s especially important if you: own a small business, have limited public-speaking experience, are involved in a crisis situation, are new to communications or marketing, and/or want to boost your visibility or gain speaking opportunities.
Let’s look at five great ways that media training can help you build your brand:
- You will master the art of delivery.
One of the most common mistakes business owners make when it comes to media training is that they aren't clear on their message. It's important for public relations (PR) professionals to understand what the client wants to convey during an interview or in a press release. Telling your story is all about the delivery, so PR professionals need to work with business owners on their delivery. For example, if you meet with a reporter and she asks you a question, do you know how much time you have to respond? Do you know if you have three seconds or 30 minutes? You may have an hour to prepare for an interview with a reporter, but that preparation can be done in 30 minutes because you know the key messages and what the reporter will ask. Great delivery of your message is all about preparation.
- You will be memorable.
In any business, people want to work with you if they think you can deliver a good service. And the quickest way to be forgotten is to be forgettable. The goal of media training is to help you become memorable; someone who stands out from the crowd because your responses are thoughtful, articulate, and relevant. When done right it will make you look good and also put your best foot forward. Media training also teaches you to be comfortable in front of the lens and ensures that everything from your handshake to your posture conveys professionalism and confidence. It gives us a chance to prepare ourselves before speaking in public, as well as practice what we have learned in a safe environment..
- You will enhance your credibility.
Media training may be the most valuable investment that you can make in your business. Media training enhances credibility, allowing you to effectively communicate your message and set you apart from those who are not properly trained. Personalities with media training appear more professional and better prepared than those without it. Not only will media training help you with television, print and radio interviews, but it will also help you speak directly to your audience, whether they are employees, customers or shareholders. Media training is an essential skill for all professionals who want to be effective in the media and gain credibility through personal appearances or written communication.
- You will increase your confidence.
Most people are nervous in front of crowds, even if they are an expert on a topic. This is particularly true if you're doing an interview on TV or radio, but it can apply to any medium: print, video or audio recordings. In all these cases, the goal is to be natural, relaxed and yourself when you talk to the interviewer. The best way to do that is with media training. It's not just about learning how to answer questions. It's also about learning how to look at the interviewer and use your body language effectively. Media training gives you a chance to prepare for every possible question and situation, so that when you're in front of the camera or microphone, it feels like second nature. This will give you the confidence and skills to be able to handle different types of media interviews.
- You will build relationships.
If you want to be successful in business, you will need to take the right steps to ensure that your image and brand are portrayed as professionally as possible. One of the ways you can do this is by attending media training. Media training will help you build relationships with journalists and other members of the media so that they can accurately portray your image. Building these relationships with the media can help ensure that they won't make any incorrect or false statements about your business. To help develop a strong relationship with the media, you should always be honest and transparent whenever possible.