Notes from Grant Ainsley May 16
Posted by Alicia Brown
on May 16, 2012
Guest speaker: Grant Ainsley - Grant Ainsley Inc.
Make your organization bulletproof with effective media communications
Begin by developing a communications policy
1. Who is the spokesperson for the organization?
2. Who is the backup?
3. Make it clear who CANNOT speak for the organization
4. Provide training for spokespeople
5. Make social media part of the policy
When surrounded by media asking for a comment, use the feet, hands, eyes, and back rule
Stand up straight with your feet firmly on the ground
Keep your hands at your sides (or use them in your speaking)
Maintain eye contact with the reporter
Try to have your back up against a wall so that reporters do not ask questions from over your shoulder
Speak the truth, even if your voice shakes
In a crisis, address the media within 24-48 hours of the event
Must show responsibility and remorse
Make your organization bulletproof with effective media communications
Begin by developing a communications policy
1. Who is the spokesperson for the organization?
2. Who is the backup?
3. Make it clear who CANNOT speak for the organization
4. Provide training for spokespeople
5. Make social media part of the policy
When surrounded by media asking for a comment, use the feet, hands, eyes, and back rule
Stand up straight with your feet firmly on the ground
Keep your hands at your sides (or use them in your speaking)
Maintain eye contact with the reporter
Try to have your back up against a wall so that reporters do not ask questions from over your shoulder
Speak the truth, even if your voice shakes
In a crisis, address the media within 24-48 hours of the event
Must show responsibility and remorse