A reporter calls to ask a few questions about a project you’re working on. Is it okay to respond? What if you’re out in the field and a TV crew shows up unannounced and starts filming? The City of Carlsbad has a media policy to help staff with these and other potentially sticky situations.
What are the headlines?
· City staff may talk to reporters about their areas of expertise.
· Whenever possible, check with the city’s communication manager (text is best, 760-828-0509) before responding, to talk through the questions the reporter will likely ask.
· Always let your Communications Department liaison know via email after talking to a reporter, recapping your conversation and the info you provided.
Remember, reporters are always on deadline, and we want to respect that. But, there is almost always time for some quick preparation.
If you know of an issue likely to attract the media’s attention, the city’s Communication Department is here to help you gather the information needed and put it into lay-person terms. Communications staff can also relay the information directly to the reporter (including on camera) if that’s your preference.
To see the city’s full media policy, visit the Communications page on the intranet. You can also print out this handy tips card and put it by your phone.
Any questions, the city’s communications staff is here to help.