For Immediate Release
Thursday, July 9, 2009

Contact:
Ed Barks
(540) 955-0600
Click here to send an e-mail.

Media Training Article in ASAE Flagship Publication
Shows Executives How to Prepare for Reporter Encounters

Successful media interviews revolve around a compelling message and stellar delivery. That is the message Ed Barks delivers in the July 2009 issue of Associations Now, the flagship publication of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).

In his media training article, “Lights! Camera! Action!” he writes that “A magnetic message carries the day while a weak message sags under questioning.”

The print version of the article features a two-page graphic treatment of an executive on camera. Barks’ advice is provided throughout the spread in a series of concise bullet points (the text of the article, minus the graphic layout, is found online).

Among the lessons, Barks emphasizes the need to conduct research before meeting the media, the value of practice, and the necessity of ongoing media training for all spokespeople.

“Devote the time needed to find the learning methods that work best for you,” Barks tells his readers. “Also remember to assess feedback. Review the video of your interview. Ask your public relations advisor what worked and what needs improvement. And be frank about critiquing yourself.”

“The editors did a terrific job bringing this highly visual subject to life in a visual fashion. Their efforts make the content pop from the page,” said the author. “I thank them for exercising the creative vision that will make this a much more powerful learning experience.”

Ed Barks works with corporate and association executives who need a magnetic message and sharp communications skills, and with public affairs and public relations experts who counsel their bosses and clients. The former radio broadcaster is the author of The Truth About Public Speaking: The Three Keys to Great Presentations. As President of Barks Communications since 1997, he has taught more than 3000 business leaders, association executives, government officials, athletes, entertainers, non-profit executives, and public relations staff how to succeed when they deal with the media, deliver presentations, and testify before government officials.