Entrepreneur.com has a list of 12 myths that can kill your public relations plan.
Say It Isn’t So
Are these 12 media myths killing your public relations plan? Find out how to get media-savvy–fast.
The myths:
- It’s important to put a positive spin on everything.
- If you don’t want to answer a reporter’s question, change the subject.
- You should participate in every interview that’s requested of you.
- Reciting how many other media interviews you’ve done impresses journalists, producers and editors.
- A good news release is the best way to get media attention for your company.
- Mention your company, product or book as often as possible.
- Whenever you don’t want something printed or broadcast, just say it’s “off the record.”
- Answer every question so that you look like the expert.
- If you advertise in a medium, they’ll give you better coverage.
- The bigger the words, the smarter you sound.
- Never show emotion.
- Media training is what you need most to be successful in media relations.
They also give five rules to live by:
- Respond promptly.
- Never say “no comment.”
- Never lie or speculate.
- Know the medium’s audience.
- Stick to what you know.
Of course, the article gives tips on the right way to approach reporters, information on the myths and why you should live by these rules.