Support for Faculty as They Engage With the Media

“Many faculty members have received invitations from the media,” said Sherilynn Black, associate vice provost for faculty advancement. “Some of you have expressed that you want to add your voice and expertise into the broader conversation.”

To support faculty in their engagements with the media, the Office for Faculty Advancement and University Communications & Marketing teamed up to offer an interactive workshop. Two experienced faculty members, Nathan Boucher and Geraldine Dawson, were on hand to provide their input.

Excerpts From the Conversation

“If you are contacted for an interview, run it by us and we can help assess it for you. If you do talk to the media, stick to your research and give examples from your scholarship.” –Steve Hartsoe, Assistant Director of Media Relations

“It’s about leading with facts. Explain and put it in context. Frame it in a way that’s grounded in your research.” –Gregory Phillips, Executive Director, Editorial Content and Media Relations

“I’ve often imagined the questions that will be asked. I write out my answers ahead of time. I’ll think it through and write different versions of what I want to say. Often the interview is on the phone, and you can refer to your notes.” –Geraldine Dawson, William Cleland Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

“If you have concerns about accuracy, you can ask for questions in an e-mail and reply in writing. If they say no, you could ask for the general topic of the story. […] Whatever your research, you have key findings you want them to take away. Develop two to three talking points. Write them out. Rehearse them. Repeat those points as often as possible.” –Gregory Phillips

“In an op-ed, you control the narrative. Make one point. What’s my primary argument? Hit that. Be specific. To get anybody to read your piece, it has to start well. Get to the point. An anecdote or a human face at the top is a good idea. Use data to punctuate the points you want to make. Wrap your arms around the reader to say, here’s why you should care.” –Eric Ferreri, Senior Writer

“Before starting, I ask, is this worth my time? Will this promote my research agenda? Does this align with my priorities? –Nathan Boucher, Associate Research Professor in the Sanford School of Public Policy

Faculty members, whether as individuals or groups, are always welcome to contact University Communications & Marketing for further information and specific questions.

Tips for Media/Interview Success

• Develop 2-3 talking points​.
  • Use anecdotes, metaphors and examples.
  • Focus on impact, as informed by your scholarship.
• Repeat, repeat, repeat​.
• Pause when needed — you’re in the driver’s seat.
• Bridge​:
  • “What I hope people will understand is…”
  • “What people need to remember is...”
  • “What’s important to emphasize is...”
• Answer a question, then stop talking.
• Ask to hear back what you said, to make sure you were clear.​
• Correct yourself if needed.​
• Ask what they’ll use.

Recommendations for Writing Effective Op-Eds

Please access tips via this Box link.

Main image: Sherilynn Black, Nathan Boucher, Geraldine Dawson, Eric Ferreri, Steve Hartsoe and Gregory Phillips