Broadcast Expert Coaches Class on Spokesperson Techniques

Public relations is more than social media and writing press releases. Public relations encompasses the image and identity of a company. As a spokesperson, the public relations practitioner promotes the image of the company through their appearance and demeanor during media interviews and press conferences.

Jan Getz, a former broadcast producer, on-air talent and professor, coached public relations writing and production students on spokesperson techniques. “Public relations is all about the communication skills- writing, reading and speaking. Be well read, speak clearly and succinctly and find the key messages that reporters want to have,” said Getz.

Public relations professionals are often the spokesperson for a company in addition to managing the company’s media relations.  A huge portion of their position involves being energetic about their job and familiar with the company they represent.

Getz stressed that effective public relations practitioners identify the newsworthy points of an event, convey those points to reporters and maintain a professional appearance. According to Getz, when you look professional it shows you care.

“I learned a lot about speaking in front of a camera, for example how to dress, what kind of makeup looks best on camera and what colors look best as well,” said Ricky Emmons, junior in the mass communication department. “I also learned that it's so much harder than it looks.”

After students spoke on camera, Getz provided extensive feedback on their performances to help them improve in the future. Getz noted that college is the perfect time for students to hone their public relations skills. Many clubs and organizations are looking for students to take on the public relations role for them. As future communication professionals students can’t have too much practice and experience under their belts.

On Camera Tips

-Turquoise flatters most skin tones

-White shirts reflect too much light

-Keep hair, make-up and clothes simple

-Too much jewelry can be distracting

-Wear a shirt or blouse with sleeves