Is ‘media training’ still relevant and useful? The answer is yes.
To get better on-camera, you need to be proactive in improving your media interviews skills. A media training exercise can help you effectively deliver your intended messages not just in an interview with a journalist, but also during a webinar presentation, at a podcast interview or even during Senate estimates.
But before you participate in a media training exercise, consider asking some of the following questions to your trainer:
- What is your training approach?
Every trainer has a different approach. Some focus on teaching theoretical concepts while others prefer imparting practical knowledge. Some of them might cover a mix of both. Make sure to check whether the trainer’s media training approach is suitable for the skills you wish to acquire. You can also request trainers to tailor their approach to your needs.
- What skills will you learn by the end of the training?
Media training can help identify your strengths, areas of improvements and teach how to be effective when approaching a presentation or a talk. By the end of a training exercise, you should have a holistic understanding of how different forms of media operate as well as what is the best practice for responding to interview questions.
- What type of clients have the trainers worked with in the past?
The answer to this question must be a key influencer in your decision-making process. The type of clients your trainer has helped in the past will determine the effectiveness of the course. You will need a trainer that is familiar with your industry or experienced in engaging with a similar target audience as your team.
- Does the trainer have sufficient experience in the field of media communications?
Experience matters. A trainer that has been in the media or communications industry for a longer period will give clients sufficient exposure. Trainers that have spent time in the industry (in-front or behind the camera) are more likely to be able to provide valuable tips and tricks.
- Does the training employ the right equipment during the course?
A high-quality training program will have a broadcast quality studio and all the necessary equipment required for mock interviews or on-camera presentations. Make sure you get a filmed practice session during the training to get immediate and tailored feedback. Check if you can get recorded copies of your practice sessions to take home for future practice and learning.
So, ask these questions to make sure the media training is tailored to your requirements. If you wish to get some quick tips to help deliver your message in a media interview, you can also read our article:
5 tips to successfully land your message in the next media interview.
Are you preparing for a media interview? Or looking to learn storytelling skills? Or simply want to understand the media landscape? Join our media training master class. Delivered by David Pembroke, former journalist and the CEO of contentgroup, our full-day media training will prepare you for the next time you are on camera.
Read the details on the media training master class here.
