You can’t believe what they are saying about your company and your industry! How dare they make accusations without representing your side of the table? Before you call your local reporter to make a stand, you might want to consider removing your emotions from the conversation. Don’t go on the air mad.
Your first mistake was letting them get to you.
We’ve seen it happen before. A dramatic news story is developing. No one is naming names, and then suddenly the finger is pointed – at you or your industry! Now you’ve taken personal offense to the situation. Before you start making battle plans, a real perspective on the media is needed.
You don’t take the tape to the editing room.
As we’ve mentioned in a previous article, when you are interviewed, you have very little power over what finally makes it onto the air. The media will shape the story as they see fit. You might have good intentions, but those intentions may not be transferred to the final product.
The press does not work for you.
You might have all the right answers, but reporters don’t make money representing you. “If it bleeds, it leads.” They will be looking to take your hot head to the bank, and they’ll miss your entire argument. And rightfully so, since anger has never solved a problem and the media is a very ineffective place to fight your fight.
Your goal needs to match your demeanor.
You might be right, but your high emotional state will damage your credibility, ruining your testimony. Your aim needs to be a demonstration of the factual information in an organized, temperate manner. If you choose to use the media to communicate about an issue, you need to protect yourself and your company against your own anger.
Process the facts, don’t be reactive.
Generally our first emotions when angry are reactive in nature. If you are reacting to a situation emotionally, you are not taking control of it. A reactive state is not how you want to approach the situation to create change. Review the facts, and create a plan in a calm and collective manner. You can still bring your passion for truth, but leave out your frustration or anger.
Breathe deeply, pick up the phone…
And call us for media training before you take your case to the press. Our perspective can help you shape your discussion and remove your emotions from the issue, so that you can effectively communicate your message.