Guidelines for Working With The Media

Ask for help. If you've received a call from a reporter and have questions about how best to respond call us at 745-3925 or 3240 for assistance. We can help.

Plan Ahead. Think about your key points. Be clear and concise. Avoid jargon. Be quotable.

Relax. Stop. Listen. Think before responding.

Be Conversational. Talk to the reporter, not the camera. Never feel you have to fill a silence. You are never "off the record."

Never speculate, never discuss a third party, never say "no comment."

Always be helpful and responsive. Call the PR office if you want us to help or be with you during an interview.

Speak simply and concisely. Because of the length of their pieces, reporters must use very short sound bytes, quotes or comments. Avoid jargon and be wary of comments that could be used out of context.

Be Positive. A defensive tone comes across loudly on TV. Don't show anger or be defensive. Speak with a smile. Provide facts, not theory.