communications director

Ten Days, Ten Lessons Learned from Former White House Director of Communications, Anthony Scaramucci

Lesson #1: Do not, under any circumstances, initiate a telephone call with a journalist, assuming your conversation will not be printed, especially if the conversation includes cussing against your colleagues, who work with you on a daily basis and then hope to keep your job.

Lessons #2-10: See Lesson One.

Mooch out. #themooch #themoochisloose (via giphy)

Mooch out. #themooch #themoochisloose (via giphy)

What does Off the Record Mean?

The phrase "off the record" is commonly used to describe a situation where an individual shares information unofficially without expecting it to be publicly disclosed or attributed to them. It is often associated with confidence, allowing team members or business partners to exchange candid views or sensitive details without repercussions. However, relying on this approach may have risks, as trust must be established between parties involved in off-the-record discussions. Understanding the dynamics and implications of off-the-record conversations is pivotal when considering new strategies or making informed decisions based on confidential information.

man being mobbed by recoreders

Why Nothing is EVER Off The Record

In today's fast-paced digitized world of journalism, trust is a fragile commodity that both parties, journalists and their sources, must handle with care. Many believe that by insisting a conversation is "off the record," they can protect themselves from unwanted exposure, but this mindset can be a dangerous game to play. The inherent nature of a journalist's profession is to seek out newsworthy material that often thrives on a story's unpredictable and revealing aspects. With media houses competing fiercely for exclusive scoops, there is always a risk that what was formerly agreed upon as "off the record" information becomes irresistible fodder for a breaking story. Navigating the complex boundaries of media ethics and the ever-evolving landscape of news reporting further complicates the matter, making it vital for individuals to approach conversations with journalists with caution, discernment, and the understanding that nothing is EVER truly off the record.

breaking news reporter

Times You Should NEVER reach out to a journalist

When reaching out to a journalist, certain circumstances may be counterproductive or even damaging to your business or organization. One such instance is when you need a newsworthy story or announcement to share, as this may be perceived as a waste of the journalist's time and, consequently, could harm your professional relationship with them. It would help if you also thought twice about contacting a journalist when you have confidential or off-the-record information, as this can lead to mistrust and jeopardize your credibility. And finally, if there is an ongoing legal dispute or sensitive internal matter related to your company, refrain from contacting media professionals, as it may result in unfavorable publicity or exacerbate the situation. Maintaining a positive and respectful rapport with journalists is crucial for effective media relations, so be mindful of appropriate timing and context when initiating contact.

Ready to grow your business with the help of media relations?

 
male reporter

At TrizCom Public Relations, we want to ensure you get the best earned media coverage possible. We know how hard it can be to craft an effective press release or to know what you can and cannot say to a journalist. So with our experienced team of professionals, we'll work with you and provide support every step so you can tell your stories to the world. From media training sessions to PR services like strategic media placement, stories will be heard about your brand in ways never thought of before.

Don't settle for anything less than stellar — increase visibility and sales through tailored publicity tools from us at TrizCom Public Relations. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that all conversations go through our management first - no surprises here! Our team is always one step ahead regarding avoidance tactics and bridging, so that's one less worry off your plate. 

Get started today – call 972-247-1369 for a free consultation or visit https://www.trizcom.com/public-relations-services for more information.