Your role in the media campaign will be similar to the community outreach efforts. The objective is to identify and contact media outlets in your area in order to develop a relationship and dialogue, and engage them in covering newsworthy items regarding the practice of psychology and its far-reaching impact.

Whether or not you have had any exposure to the press, it is always wise to keep certain things in mind when dealing with the media. The following section contains a media training guide which outlines some key recommendations and ideas for generating positive exposure for the practice of psychology.

BUILDING A MEDIA CONTACT LIST

Using the media contact list, begin by identifying the major electronic and print media outlets in your area. This means TV and radio stations, newspapers, magazines and trade papers. Be sure to include general, business, health care and lifestyle editors. Include the names of assignment editors, reporters and columnists as well as their addresses, phone and fax numbers. Be sure to collect information on deadlines and publication dates.

Types of Media

Newspapers/Magazines
Television
Feature/Interview Programs
Radio
Preparing for an Interview

A FINAL NOTE

It is best not to call reporters/editors in the afternoons. They will be finishing their stories for that night's newscast or the next day's paper. The best time to reach them is in the morning.