On behalf of myself and all media trainers, I want to thank the Reverend Jesse Jackson for demonstrating what can happen when one ignores a basic Media Training 101 principle:
From the moment you step inside a studio, or the news crew arrives at your door, assume the microphone is on and the camera is recording. Anything you say can be used.
While sitting in a Fox News studio waiting to be interviewed, Jackson made a disparaging and crude comment about presidential candidate Barack Obama to another guest (see interview below).
The microphone was on. The camera was recording. Jackson was quoted.
Sadly, Jackson doesn't get it. In his apology to Obama he said, "...any harm or hurt that this hot mic private conversation may have caused..."
Private conversation?! In a TV news studio, miked up, sitting in a chair waiting to be interviewed?
Reverend Jackson, a suggestion. Instead of a feeble attempt to blame the media, why not try taking personal responsibility for your screw up?
Lou -
Just a note to say I really like your site, and your point of view on training.
I am doing the same thing from Seattle. I think we share some philosophies and certainly some points of view. It appears we were writing the same thing on the same day - visit: http://www.lynnespinoza.com/2008/media-training-tip-1-you-are-never-off-the-record/
Best to you and, again, I truly enjoy your blog.
Lynn
Posted by: Lynn Espinoza | July 12, 2008 at 12:11