Media Training Advice for Better Executive Communications

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, invites communications and presentations coach Joel Schwartzberg to discuss key message development and the importance of media training for executives. 

Joel shares his approach to executive communication, emphasizing the importance of having a clear and compelling point, and offers practical tips on how to effectively convey messages to a reporter’s audience. 

The conversation covers techniques such as the primacy and recency effects, bridging off-topic questions back to key messages, and the importance of making messages simple yet impactful. 

The episode concludes with recommendations for tailoring communication styles to different mediums without altering the core message, solidifying the idea that preparation and practice can turn anyone into a confident spokesperson.

00:00 Welcome to PR Explored

00:17 Meet Joel Schwartzberg

01:29 The Importance of Key Messages

04:17 Effective Communication Strategies

07:55 Crafting Strong Key Messages

21:39 Bridging Off-Point Questions

30:52 The Pitfalls of Overloading Information

32:04 Prioritizing Key Messages

34:21 Effective Storytelling in Media

37:31 Handling Off-the-Cuff Remarks

41:04 The Importance of Media Training

42:45 Crafting Authentic Email Interviews

47:26 Defining Technical Terms for Impact

49:43 The Power of Practice and Feedback

54:50 Adapting to Different Media Channels

58:55 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

Show notes:

Learn more about Joel Schwartzberg and his services: https://www.joelschwartzberg.net/

Follow Joel Schwartzberg on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelschwartzberg/

Follow the host:

Website: www.michellegarrett.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUs

X/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUs

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergal

Michelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available now

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About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.