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Never Run Away and Avoid “No Comment”

no-coment.jpg

“No comment” is a term that should be avoided at all costs! It puts journalists offside straight away and makes you look like you have something to hide. The classic image above is a big “no no” as well. You immediately look like you are guilty or at the very least avoiding something.

Running away from cameras or obviously detouring to avoid them should also be avoided. It is saying to the journalists you have no comment and once again makes you look like you have something to hide.

If you are genuinely unable to comment on a particular topic there are alternatives to avoiding the cameras and using the classic “no comment” line.

INSTEAD take control of the situation. Acknowledge the media, use a holding statement and then calmly leave:

“Thanks for offering me the opportunity to comment. I am unable to say much at this stage, all I can say is ……………….…. however, I will comment more when I can.”

OR

“Thanks for offering me the opportunity to comment but this is the minister’s area of responsibility so please contact his/her media office.”

OR

“Good morning everyone … The matter is before the courts so I cannot say much at this stage. I will wait until the completion of the trial before commenting further.”

OR

“I don’t know the answer to that question but I will find out and get back to you before your deadline.”

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“The training has improved both the quality of our media engagement, and the range of staff now competent and confident in responding to media issues. This has contributed to our media profile, and our ability to influence the public debate on a range of important issues.

Strengths of the training were its coverage of dealing with a broad range of media and situations, developing effective approaches to difficult issues, and better focusing our messages to increase the likelihood of media coverage. The training sessions were well conducted and offered realistic simulations of media interviews.”

Darren Lewin-Hill
Communications Manager

“The training our staff team received from Maura Angle was extremely valuable.

Not only did the training help improve performances of individual staff members, it helped us as an organisation to put in place systems and protocols that help ensure our media performances are on message, well prepared for, targeted and utilize clear and accessible language.

Maura’s training has resulted in an increased level of confidence in our staff team when arranging and conducting media performances.

I’ve run, arranged and participated in a number of media training sessions and I have no hesitation in recommending Maura’s services.”

Tom Clarke
Director of Communications

“The improvement in performances was noticeable immediately and the skills learnt are already being put into practice. Great session.”

Jeremy Porter
Public Interest Law Clearing House

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