Why do you need to become a more media-savvy personality?
Neil Sean reveals “Why do you need to become a more media-savvy personality?”
It’s simple, we live in a society that judges us on our looks, awareness and ambition. More than ever these days, respect for those in power has greatly diminished, but there is a positive way to winkle your way onto the front page, attract the camera lights and forest of microphones – it just takes the correct image and lots of training.
Take, for example, a picture of David Cameron out running in the rain. What is that saying? ‘I’m vibrant, strong - and there’s the added PR bonus of the leg strap, which is code for: ‘Although I’m in pain, I’m still working for you.’
Don’t for one minute think that media training is a new genre. It goes right back to the beginning of time, one way or another. All the greats, from Churchill to Lady Thatcher, owe a huge debt to their media makers, and the ones we remember most are those who have left a great legacy. Only time will tell if today’s generation will make the mark. MPs, and Parliament in general, are still tarnished from the expenses scandal in which their money grabbing private lives were laid bare.
Some escaped, but the latest technology will find all weaknesses because the media needs to lay blame, and thus you, the MP, are the sitting duck.
But you don’t have to be: get clever, get wise, and above all, put in some visible work so that you too will be remembered as a leader, whatever your position, rather than a follower.
Many people ask me who is the most explosive star I’ve spent time with, and truthfully it’s those who are assured and who have nothing to prove but their charm and personality. Some argue you’re born with it – true, some are, but many work at it and get there just the same. The choice, of course, is yours. And, more importantly, your voters’.
Check out the host, reporters and show beforehand
It’s vital today that we equip ourselves with as much information as possible. Do your homework and learn about the programme you’re appearing on and its creatives, because not only will that knowledge serve you well in the long run, it will also show that you’ve taken the time to look into their background. Also, if things turn nasty, then you may need some ammunition that could also serve you live on air. Few will forget Philip Schofield’s interview and attempted ambush of Cameron with various names he had found on the internet. Cameron showed astute handling of the situation, made the presenter look foolish on live TV and gained the public’s trust.
It’s amazing how many MPs appear on a show but do very little to equip themselves. If you’re going to appear on something easy like Good Morning Britain or This Morning, make sure you research its viewing demographic. It’s no use becoming all highbrow and mighty when, in reality, you’ll be appearing in front of many viewers who are unemployed, often through no fault of their own. Don’t mention holidays, private schooling, your expenses, or how hard your life is – including you, Mr Clegg.
Remember that on a show like BBC Radio 4’s today there are no bigger egos than the presenters. If you don’t think that, then you really should book for media training right now. The 1pm and 6pm news are also vital slots, and many moments are filmed on the hoof or when you are emerging from buildings.
Always make sure you’re camera-ready. A good dust of anti-shine powder should be an essential tool in every MP’s box. And check teeth at all times; a good smile and clean, well-shaped teeth can go a long way to make people take in your message.
Next Time we will take a look at media and the radio... In the meantime book your media training with me Neil Sean at Westminster Live right now!
www.westminster-live.com