The Press conference

Media Relations Skills Training for CSOs Working on Human Rights Issues

3rd – 5th April 2013

The Press Conference

▪ Formal meeting with journalists designed to generate news about a specific subject to clarify a specific issue(s)

▪ A press conference should be a special event organised only when the circumstances demand it.

▪ Do you have newsworthy information?

▪ Define the issue or theme you want to put out [compelling, interesting]

The Press conference

▪ Give yourself enough time to prepare

▪ Choose an appropriate time; avoid clashes

▪ Select convenient and accessible venue

▪ Develop a press kit

▪ [Press release, backgrounders, shot bios of speakers, relevant pix, brochures & fact sheets)

The Press Conference

▪ Send out invitation at least a week in advance; follow-up

▪ If you’ve not done a press conference before, do a rehearsal.

▪ On the big day, call media houses for confirmation

▪ Keep time

▪ Dress appropriately

The Press conference▪ Have someone welcome the journos

▪ Invite journos for quick registration

▪ Hand out press kit to each journo who arrives

▪ At appointed time, panellists shd take seats behind the table facing journalists

▪ Moderator should welcome journalists and introduce the issues(s)

▪ Moderator should invite key person to make short presentation

The Press conference

▪ Use clear and concise language; avoid jargon and technical terms

▪ Raise and explain issues without sounding condescending;

▪ Truth always

The Press Conference

▪ Do not get unnerved by tough or hostile questions

▪ If the same question is asked differently, take the cue that your answer was not convincing or understood.

▪ Stay focused on the key issue; avoid inflammatory language and controversial opinions that could bury your message

The Press Conference

▪ Do not allow your body movements to distract your message

▪ Stay calm and do not appear nervous

▪ You and your team should stay behind for any informal conversations with interested journalists.