Issued by: Janine Lazarus Media Consultancy


The same principle works for media relations. Having an in depth understanding of the media as well as their audience, and building meaningful relationships with key journalists is the best way to manage your message. Know your facts and make your words count. The better your insight and relationship with reporters, the more targeted and effective your media strategies, the more satisfied the client.

But what are the challenges public relations practitioners face today? How do they manage client expectations and successfully maintain strong media relationships, while at the same time, ensure the publication of their client's stories? Where do you get it wrong and how do you get it right?

South Africa's communications and media landscape is exciting and dynamic, but understanding the game and playing it well is another story. Journalists today face new challenges with massive growth in the online media industry, and the likes of blogging and news sites. Skills shortages are a very real issue, deadlines are tighter and exclusives are more sought after than ever. Time is of the essence and the right story or PR intervention at the right time will win - even for the smallest of clients. This takes skill and keen insight.

If you are at the wrong place at the wrong time when a journalist is sourcing facts minutes before deadline... you could potentially ruin your client's reputation, or as a communications executive - that of your organisation. It is important to know your story, be available and manage the situation with insight.

With news items competing with other news hour upon the hour, communications practitioners and PR's have more pressure than ever to get it right. Agencies work vigorously to keep track of journalists, generate newsworthy angles and sustain Advertising Value Equivalents (AVE's) promised to clients. Communication executives on the other hand, have to do their damndest to keep spokespeople informed and briefed, while managing their spokespeople's “availability” and having some kind of relevant statement prepared for when the media comes looking for news.

But despite these overwhelming challenges, there are immense opportunities for this trio to be a powerful and effective team.

Janine Lazarus Media Consultancy is hosting a comprehensive full day workshop on the challenges and opportunities facing communication practitioners and journalists by taking an in depth look at South Africa's media and PR landscape. The morning session of the workshop will feature experts in the field of media and public relations who will focus on their respective sectors, followed by a panel discussion in which delegates will be invited to share their views and opinions.

The afternoon session of the workshop will focus on the highly experiential training aspect of the communications industry, with Janine Lazarus providing delegates with a valuable opportunity to experience live broadcast interviews first hand to enhance their PR and client service skills.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience a truly unique and highly interactive workshop! To attend Face Off: Bridging the Communications Frontiers hosted by Janine Lazarus Media Consultancy, here are the details again:

Date:	Tuesday 22nd or 31st July 2008
Venue:	Pembury Plaza 84 Katherine Street Sandton
Cost:	R2850 (excluding VAT) but inclusive of the following: Comprehensive note pack: Meeting the Media Speaker cards Powerful Presenting guidelines “Live” interview scenarios on camera Parking Refreshments Lunch
Time:	08h00 - 16h30

To register click here for the full invitation and programme: http://www.fizzmarketing.co.za/Ems/Lazarus/defaults.htm

To find out about special rates and discounts contact Thabile Mdletshe directly on:

Tel: +27 (11) 467-7171
Mobile: +27 (82) 304-7537
Email: thabile@fizzmarketing.co.za

This invitation is transferable. We look forward to receiving your registration!

Visit our PRESS OFFICE: With 24 years of experience in mainstream print and broadcasting media as a South African journalist, Janine Lazarus focuses her Media Training Consultancy on developing and facilitating superior and interactive training experiences that leave delegates with confidence and knowledge to engage their communication skills effectively. Her valuable experience in interviewing top public figures, celebrities and headline makers will help your organisation to develop effective Brand Ambassadors. References from clients in South Africa and other African countries rate her training as both an empowering and an invaluable experience.- more....

[11 Jul 2008 10:46]

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