5 ways to get the right media training

Last Updated on 2 November 2016

Media training can be a confusing term. It means getting the right skills to talk to the media; more specifically how to be interviewed by a journalist.

There are lots of great media trainers in the UK. And it can be confusing when you’re looking to buy some training for your organisation.

So here’s a checklist to help you make sure you get the right one:

1. Does the trainer know your sector?

Although the mechanics of interviews might be the same, the content and tone can vary hugely depending on the sector and the reason for the interview.

We focus on charities and NGOs (non-governmental organisations). That’s because my BBC background brought me in contact with lots of those, often working overseas.

If someone needs training but comes from another sector (like finance or banking) we’ll try find a trainer who has more experience in that area.

2. What’s different about this trainer?

Every trainer comes at things from a different angle. So try to find out what’s different about any trainer you approach.

For example, we specialise in what we call a fuss-free approach. This means we come to your premises with equipment which is easy to set up, and we fit in with your timetable.

We then focus on helping you work out precisely what you’re trying to get across. We look at how to prepare and give you tips and tricks. Then it’s practice, practice and practice.

We find doing it for real is the best way of learning, so most of our sessions are taken up with recording and playing back practice interviews.

Some trainers will have whole TV studios to do this. We find that’s usually not needed, as the important thing is getting the content right and building confidence. Our portable studio setup is fine for this.

3. Does the trainer sound interested?

A good trainer will listen intently to what you need, and try to understand the culture and focus of your organisation.

If they’re not doing that at the start of the process you probably need to move on.

No two training sessions are the same, because the people and organisations are so  different.

That’s what makes it so fascinating.

4. Does the trainer ask you lots of questions?

A good trainer will need to know a lot about who’s being trained. So please don’t be surprised if you’re asked…:

• Why is the training happening now? (E.g. launch of a campaign, big scandal brewing, using up the training budget,etc….)
• Is it urgent?
• How many people need the training?
• Are they beginners or experienced at being on the air?
• Have they had training before? Even if they’re on the air a lot.
• Are they up for it? Or are they being made to go kicking and screaming into the training room?
• Where would you like the training to take place?
• Is it mainly for TV, for radio, for web? Or everything?

5. What’s the follow up?

And after the training session…:

• Make sure you get the evaluation or feedback you need.
• Are the trainees going to get printed training handouts?
• Does the trainer provide copies of the recorded interviews for free?
• Is there phone, online or email support?

We do all of those, and also Skype or FaceTime refreshers if people need them.

So good luck with finding the right media trainer for you. And if you need some help, just contact us.

Find out more: Media training

 

 

Posted on 12 September 2016