10 tips for working with the media

10 tips for working with the media
McKnight's Senior Living; by Lois A. Bowers; 7/15/24

1. Saying “no comment” or not returning a reporter’s phone call or email doesn’t mean that the media outlet won’t do a story.
2. Ensure that your website includes contact information.
3. Make sure whoever answers your phone and emails knows how to respond if a request from the media comes in.
4. Do not delay.
5. If you anticipate that you may get media inquiries about a specific event, prepare a response(s) in advance so that you’re ready to comment.
6. Respond to all major inquiries.
7. For major stories, consider posting a statement on your website and/or social media, and updating it as needed.
8. You may be limited in how you can respond to a media inquiry, but you probably can say something.
9. Don’t put out a press release and assume people will see it.
10. When you’re speaking with a member of the media, understand that person’s understanding of on the record, off the record, and background.

Publisher's Note: Mark Cohen, Publisher of Hospice News Today, has also discussed several of these points on TNCTalks podcasts. Please see full article for additional detail.