Press exposure - a guide

A step-by-step guide to handling the media

Attention from the media can be a daunting experience, especially if you are unused to the way journalists work. Following the steps below will give you time to consider properly the options and likely outcomes.

1. In most situations there is no need to make an immediate decision regarding any of the proposals put to you by the media. Try to withstand pressure placed on you to tell your story before you are ready. Take your time.

2. Consider carefully how you want your story to be treated. What do you know about the publication or programme interested in telling your story? Do you know for sure what “angle” the journalists might take?

3. Get any proposals and all agreements in writing.

4. Pay particular attention to conditions and restrictions that may affect your future plans to talk to other media. If you are being paid, when will the payment be made and under what circumstances could it be withheld?

5. Do not speak “off the record” to a journalist or give any details in confidence unless you are prepared for the information to be used and attributed to you.

6. Remember that speaking to any reporter can result in your story being published in the national or regional press, irrespective of your wishes. Any comment you make now may adversely affect your future opportunities.

7. In certain circumstances you are entitled to request “copy approval”, that is the opportunity to read the article prior to publication.

8. Establish the credentials of the journalist and the organisation he or she claims to represent. Are they on the staff or freelance? Can they provide testimonials from both inside the industry and from former interviewees?

9. Will your interview be syndicated to other media? If so, what control will you have over its distribution? Can you expect further payment?

10. Finally, consider how the publication of the story might impact, positively and negatively, on your short and long term aspirations and plans.

For more information call 0117 9858 709 or email info@medavia.co.uk