I blog from time to time about my interactions with
public relations and marketing people. Usually it’s “what not to do.” Hopefully
my posts are helpful to my friends on the other side of the business.
I’m having an experience right now with a group who will
likely appear in an upcoming story.
Weeks ago, I sent an email giving a short overview of my
investigation. It asked to talk on the phone and I wrote that I would like to
bounce some ideas around. My offer was a branch showing I am open to other
ideas. I also noted that I was using a specific case in my news story.
Now I’ve received a statement that addresses the specific
case, but not the broader issue in my story. No one from the organization has
called to take me up on the offer to talk openly.
My advice: when a reporter is willing to be open on a
story that may not be favorable to you, take him up on it. Some journalists really
do want to be open, upfront and honest from the start. It leaves a bad taste in
my mouth when people act scared or afraid of a simple conversation.
(Bad taste doesn't affect the story. It will be as fair as
ever.)
