As someone with a background in public relations and broadcasting, I've done media training for many high-level executives. Conducting an interview is not something someone should take lightly and it should not be assumed that you can just be yourself and it will all be alright. This is magnified ten-fold when the interview is captured on video.
Below is a stellar example of a person who was not adequately prepared to speak with the media. Her eye rolls, laughter, and facial expressions did nothing but discredit her and embarrass her employer. It's shocking that a company as well-known as Gawker, a media outlet itself, would not coach its editor to provide a more competent interview. Especially considering the controversial topic: stalking.
In this day and age where cutbacks are affecting businesses large and small, this is an important reminder that having a full-time, professional PR/communications person on the staff is crucial. When this interview took place, that role had been vacant at Gawker for four months.
Amber, you are right on about this! Wow, what's with the laugh and eyes rolling anyway? Even Kimmel, not one to fray too far from sarcasm, discredits her when discussing his own personal account of misrepresentation in a recent Gawker post. Unreal. Thanks for enlightening your readers on this topic.
ReplyDeleteThey absolutely need to fill this role. They would be well served to hire you for the position.
ReplyDeleteAnita @ModelSupplies
Wow!!! She was horrible. She sounded like a spoiled child. Her facial expressions were completely unprofessional. Thanks for posting this, Amber!
ReplyDeleteCarin: Thanks for the comment and your kind support. It's a sad world when Jimmy Kimmel is the level-headed one, huh? :->
ReplyDeleteAnita: You're sweet! Thank you for always making me feel special!
Sara: Thanks for leaving a comment, Sara! I appreciate it a bunch. Pretty shocking interview, huh?
That really does suck. PR is EVERYTHING. As the face of Gawker Stalker, a site that thrives on edgy, racy, controversial stuff, this woman has proved yet again how very important it is to have the right person for the job. And yes Amber, you would be perfect for that gig!
ReplyDeleteKartik: Thanks so much, Kartik. You're a doll and a half!
ReplyDeleteWhew! What was that? The "why are you laughing" comment was a slap in her face and she missed that opportunity to finally get professional. She seemed unprepared for everything, but especially for Kimmel's personal gripe about false reporting. Weak off-the-cuff excuses for lack of fact-checking seemed arrogant. What a disaster!
ReplyDeleteSo, have they called you yet ;-D
Mary: A prime example of someone who wasn't prepped. More than that, though, I think this woman lacks a whole lot of common sense. I understand her intent was probably to be lighthearted about the topic, but she took it WAY too far. I concur, Mary. What a disaster!
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