My five takeaways from #MeetTheMedia

Media Stable has now delivered 12 #MeetTheMedia programs over three years across the country, and it never ceases to amaze me what I come away with each time. This week in Sydney and Melbourne, media provided true enlightenment to attendees on how to communicate through media.

What makes this event the most unique education process for all, is the media’s generosity of time and wisdom, the energy to learn and attitude of attendees, and the mutual respect from both parties.

So what did I take away from this series?

1. You never know it all – some of the most experienced and accomplished public relations professionals told me at these events that #MeetTheMedia is the perfect professional development program for them to stay current. “The day we think we know it all is the day we need to get out of the communications industry.”

2. Be outstanding – Media wants you to succeed and be the best you possibly can be. Funnily enough your performance in the media reflects not just on you but the media personnel that got you there in the first place.

3. The media release is almost dead – while there are certain elements of a media release that are still valid, the time it takes to create one is not. Of the 13 media who attended, almost none depend on or use of the media release these days.

4. Keep it short and sweet – it’s what we have been saying for a long time – the content that you take to media needs to be short, to the point and on target with the audience. Don’t bury the hook or the unique angle, you’re already buried in everyone else’s content.

5. Exclusive – yes that word really means what it is implying. Unique and targeted content for a particular program is still highly desired. If you have access to regular exclusive content, you can be media’s best friend.

These lessons are an important reminder and reinforcement that what you are doing is right or it can highlight that changes need to be made to the way you’re dealing with media.

Don’t take my word on what it means to attend #MeetTheMedia, here is some feedback from an attendee:

“Another huge thanks is in order for the incredible #MeetTheMedia day yesterday, as you may have been able see I took a lot away from it and personally, I thought it was truly invaluable. Thanks! Speak soon.”

The next series of #MeetTheMedia will run next year. Enquire today by emailing tickets@mediastable.com.au
Nic Hayes is the Managing Director and Founder of Media Stable.