How to get the attention of the media?

Probably you've already met the peoples in the Media-sweaters. The ones who're always to late for the clanmeetings, the ones carrying photocamera's and filmequipment all around the University Campus. Indeed, they're the young Journalists! And I don't know if you know it, but they are waiting for YOU!

I'm sure that each of you have you're own stories to tell. About your projects, your country, your life,... but maybe the young journalists haven't spoken with you yet. That's a pitty, because we really need your help for the action toolkit.

Fortunaly, there was a nice workshop today about Media. I'm eager to share some Media- "Tips and tricks" with you!

WHY DO I NEED MEDIA?
- Promote your work
(This congress is the best oppurtunity to make your project known all around the globe. Maybe you can start a network of activists and brainstorm about international projects.)
- Recruit new peoples
- Spread your message

Convinced?
Ok, let's start with:
GAIN THE ATTENTION OF THE (YOUNG) JOURNALISTS?
(this part can be difficult, especially during karoake- and dancingevenings)
- Do like the man of Fathers for Justice. Dress yourself in a batmansuit and climb on the roof of the Pathfoodbuilding. I'm sure the journalists will like it. No batmansuit with you? Jumping in the lake is also a good alternative.
- Of course you can also just go to one of the journalists and ask them for an interview. They don't bite, are very patient and I'm sure they will hug you because of your courage.

Camera's, notebooks, photocamera's ready? ACTION!

Uh...Uh...WHAT'S YOUR STRATEGY?
Keep in mind the following 5 W's before the interview.
- WHY am I doing this (your project) ?
- WHAT's my message?
- WHO are we reaching?
- WHEN is/was your project?
- WHERE is/was it?

It's never nice to hear very complicated, long interviews. (You know, some politicians are real experts in speaking a lot, without saying anything) You'll do better than them when you keep this tricks in mind.

- Tell a clear message!
- Just focus on three mainpoints!
- Don't rant!
- Be conversational
- Breathe!
- Stick to key points!!!

Ok, now you're prepared! Let's end what some interesting facts.

WHICH PART OF YOUR MESSAGE HAS THE BIGGEST IMPACT?
- Verbal part (what you say): 7%
- Vocal part (how you say it): 38%
- Visual part (body language): 54%

PEOPLES FORGET
25% in 24 hours
50% in 48 hours
80% in 4 days
So, don't forget to stick to your key points!

Are you still here, reading this? Where are you waiting for? Just run to one to one of the journalists to tell her/him your story!

Good luck!

Veerle Vrindts