"GROUND RULES"
As a reporter, I bristled whenever a public relations/affairs person explained the "ground rules" of an interview. My initial internal reaction was always along the lines of, "Don't tell me what I can ask and what I can't." It could sometimes lead to a strained encounter, depending on how those rules were expressed.
One of the things that we teach our public affairs students at the Defense Information School is that a good military public affairs officer sets firm parameters around a media engagement, be it a press conference or a one-on-one interview. And to stick to their guns.
But I tell my students that they can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. Instead of using the phrase, "ground rules," consider "guidelines." Or "parameters."
Better yet, don't use any phrase at all. "Hey (insert reporter name here), just wanted to let you know that I've got about ten minutes to spend with you, and I'm prepared to talk to you about (insert subject matter here). If you've got questions on other topics, I will have to get back to you on those, or I can direct you to a more appropriate resource."
This way, the PAO sets the expectations in a non-threatening, relatable way with the journalist, and lessens the chance of the engagement going sideways before it even begins.
What hacks do you have for a smooth and professional media engagement?
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to Enlightened Leaders and Artists
2moThe media are always right. Like the customer is always right,