Tips for Working with Media During Times of Crisis
- Reporters have a job to do, so you should act respectfully when approached, but remember that you have rights!
- When approached, ask for the reporter’s name and the name of his or her publication or network.
- Reporters and camera operators can approach you in public areas ONLY and are not permitted in residence facilities, classrooms, dining halls, and other locations.
- You are under no obligation to respond to media inquiries and can refuse to answer any and all questions, if that is your preference.
- If you feel that you are being approached in an inappropriate way or are even being harassed, please call the Office of Campus Police Services at 771.2345.
- If you choose to answer questions, THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK, and respond based on what you KNOW with certainty. Above all, avoid speculating and hypothesizing.
- Reporters often frame their questions to bring out the conflict in a story. When answering, be honest and direct, and don’t be lulled into flippancy, forced humor, or repeating negative words used in the reporter’s question.
- If you would like advice or assistance in dealing with media requests, please contact the Department of Public Relations & Communications at 771-2368.
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