Media Relations & Public Speaking Flashcards

During a media interview, a reporter asks a question outside your prepared topic area. The best response is to:

Answer: Bridge back to your key messages after briefly acknowledging the question

Bridging techniques allow you to acknowledge an off-topic question while steering the conversation back to your prepared key messages.

Which vocal element most strongly conveys confidence during a public speech?

Answer: Varied pacing with deliberate pauses

Varied pacing with deliberate pauses signals confidence and gives the audience time to absorb key points.

A 'news peg' in media relations refers to:

Answer: Tying a pitch to a current event or trend to increase newsworthiness

A news peg connects your story to a timely event, giving journalists a reason to cover it now rather than later.

What is the primary purpose of an editorial calendar in media relations?

Answer: To track publication special issues and plan pitch timing accordingly

Editorial calendars reveal when publications plan themed issues, allowing communicators to pitch aligned stories in advance.

The 'rule of three' in public speaking suggests that:

Answer: Audiences retain information best when presented in groups of three

The rule of three leverages cognitive patterns that make triads of information more memorable and satisfying for audiences.

When preparing for a hostile media interview, which strategy is most effective?

Answer: Anticipate tough questions and practice bridging responses in advance

Rigorous preparation including mock hostile Q&A sessions enables spokespeople to respond calmly and redirect effectively.

In public speaking, 'signposting' refers to:

Answer: Verbal cues that signal transitions and guide the audience through the speech structure

Signposting uses phrases like 'first,' 'moving on,' and 'in conclusion' to help audiences track where they are in a speech.