<previous | next>

How to Handle a Direct Call from a Journalist

If a journalist calls you directly, respond as quickly as you can. Even if you are busy it is worth calling the journalist back and arranging another time to speak, or direct them to the media office.

Ask the journalist to explain the essence of the story they are reporting on and if you agree to be interviewed, ask the journalist his or her name, who they work for, and when they expect to publish or broadcast the interview.

At the end of the conversation ask for the journalist's phone number in case you need to ring back with extra information. If you are uncomfortable with a question you don’t have to answer it, but avoid using the clichéd "no comment".

Most of the time you'll be taking questions on your area of expertise, but if you are asked to comment on university or faculty policy or university corporate issues that are outside your field of expertise simply decline and forward the person to the media office.

The media office is always the place to go if you need help dealing with a media inquiry or need additional advice.

How to Attract Publicity for Your "Story" or Special Event

Official UTS media releases are issued by the UTS media office, but if you wish, you are free to send information to journalists about a particular issue in your area of expertise or discipline.

If you do fax or send information to the media, let the media team know in case we receive an inquiry from a journalist based on what you've sent out.

Generally you will want a more planned, considered and strategic interaction with the media. In these circumstances the media team will prepare a media release about your research, teaching, event or newsworthy activity. The media team will also map out the best way to issue your media release

The following checklist will help you put together a brief for the media office. If you are not sure of all the details – we can help you fill in the gaps.

<previous | next>