Why will the media care about the story? Is it genuinely something that will be of interest to their audience? Why? Does the story/issue directly involve anyone else except you? Have you contacted them for their consent to contact the media? What is the key thing you want the media to report, and can you summarize this in one sentence? What is the solution to the problem that you want the media to put forward? What is the deadline? Check when the deadline for submissions is, if you want your story in the next edition, or if your campaign is time sensitive. How can CNIB staff help? This could be providing you with key statistics and information, a media release, or prepping you with tips on how to talk to the media. Reach out to us at . Speaking with the media Be clear about whether you represent yourself and/or your organization. Never represent CNIB without speaking to your CNIB contact. For television, keep your eyes on whoever is talking – whether you know you are on camera or not. It is rare to see a spokesperson look directly at the camera (usually just in telethons). The rules of polite conversation apply. When it is your turn to talk, look at the interviewer. If you are on a panel with multiple people, just keep looking at the person who is speaking so you appear polite. For radio interviews, use your voice to portray your enthusiasm and keep a smile on your face so it is in your voice (unless the topic is a distressing one – in that case, your natural emotions will direct you). Never get openly angry or be rude. Body language matters. Try to look confident and relaxed. It's important to come across as friendly and likeable, as well as professional. Be proactive by respectfully launching into your key messages after introductions with "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me. I would like to speak to you about…" This is your interview, so make sure your message gets across even if you have to politely say, "I would like to finish answering your earlier question" and if you need to correct factual errors by the interviewer.
Why will the media care about the story? Is it genuinely something that will be of interest to their audience? Why? Does the story/issue directly involve anyone else except you? Have you contacted them for their consent to contact the media? What is the key thing you want the media to report, and can you summarize this in one sentence? What is the solution to the problem that you want the media to put forward? What is the deadline? Check when the deadline for submissions is, if you want your story in the next edition, or if your campaign is time sensitive. How can CNIB staff help? This could be providing you with key statistics and information, a media release, or prepping you with tips on how to talk to the media. Reach out to us at . Speaking with the media Be clear about whether you represent yourself and/or your organization. Never represent CNIB without speaking to your CNIB contact. For television, keep your eyes on whoever is talking – whether you know you are on camera or not. It is rare to see a spokesperson look directly at the camera (usually just in telethons). The rules of polite conversation apply. When it is your turn to talk, look at the interviewer. If you are on a panel with multiple people, just keep looking at the person who is speaking so you appear polite. For radio interviews, use your voice to portray your enthusiasm and keep a smile on your face so it is in your voice (unless the topic is a distressing one – in that case, your natural emotions will direct you). Never get openly angry or be rude. Body language matters. Try to look confident and relaxed. It's important to come across as friendly and likeable, as well as professional. Be proactive by respectfully launching into your key messages after introductions with "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me. I would like to speak to you about…" This is your interview, so make sure your message gets across even if you have to politely say, "I would like to finish answering your earlier question" and if you need to correct factual errors by the interviewer.
Volunteering%20to%20Support%20Advocacy%20-%20Toolkit.docx