First Responders Media Training

A half-day workshop or series of session designed to provide first responders – those who may be the first to come in contact with the news media in emergency situations, but are not the organization’s primary spokespersons – with guidance on how to handle those encounters.

Emergency and other situations that involve the news media often require a rapid response. What’s more, crises can occur at the most inconvenient times – after hours, on weekends, during holidays, etc. The first person to come in contact with a reporter (either by phone or in person) may be someone other than the organization’s designated spokesperson. It may be a security guard, shift supervisor, secretary, receptionist, switchboard operator or other individual who may be called upon to provide assistance during a crisis or other emergency.

First Responders Media Training provides these individuals with a game plan – what to say (or not say) and do (or not do) until the primary spokesperson arrives. The training shows those on the front line how to greet and deal with the news media. The focus is on the following:

• What to expect from persistent, aggressive reporters covering your problem, crisis or event
• How to politely decline an interview request
• How to provide limited, authorized information to reporters

Participants take part in several crisis-related encounters with multiple reporters. Those simulations are recorded and critiqued.