Media training for researchers

Communicating with impact

Develop the skills and confidence to communicate with impact across the media

The media is one of the most powerful routes to impact for research - but the media landscape is becoming ever more diverse and difficult to navigate. Understanding how to reach and engage the right audiences through specific media and the right messaging is key to success.

Delivered in a small group format, this workshop blends traditional media training with a masterclass on key messages. It helps to prepare researchers to think strategically, developing ways to talk about their research with integrity and confidence across different forms of media.

This practical workshop starts by guiding researchers to develop a strategic approach to communicating their research by first considering their intended goals and target audiences, and how different forms of media can be used to greatest impact.

The workshop equips researchers with the skills to develop compelling and impactful key messages about their research, along with guidance on how to prepare for a media interview. Through activities like a mock press conference and practice interviews, attendees will refine their messaging and delivery techniques.

Learn from experts

This workshop is led by Ruth Francis and Dan Richards-Doran, both bring many years of expertise in delivering and advising on strategic science communications and working with the media. They’ll share the secrets of their own successes and lessons learned along the way. 

Preparation and feedback

We’ll ask attendees to complete a short questionnaire so our trainers can tailor the course to their own areas of research. Attendees will also be asked to prepare some basic key messages in advance to work on in the workshop.

Following the workshop, attendees will be provided with video recordings of their interviews and written feedback.

COURSE LENGTH

5 hours

NUMBER OF DELEGATES

This course is designed to run with a maximum of eight delegates.

Who should attend?

  • Those looking to reach new audiences for their research through the media, whether that’s the local community, decision-makers, or potential collaborators.

  • Those looking to prepare for potential media interviews or improve their interview technique.

  • Researchers from PhD level onwards.

What to expect

  • Guidance on general principles of media engagement, types of questions and how to prepare.

  • Practical exercises, mock press conference, practice interviews with coaching and feedback.

  • A framework for developing key messages with support to improve your own messaging.

  • Group discussions and how-to-guides.

  • Video recording with written feedback.

Learning outcomes

  • Learn how science is reported in the media and outlets’ different audiences.

  • Identify audiences for your research and tell an engaging story.

  • Understand how to prepare for different types of media interview – from traditional broadcast and conversations with journalists to podcasts and written quotes.

  • Gain the skills to develop compelling key messages for your audience.

  • Develop your presentation and delivery skills for media interviews, as well as other on-camera and public speaking opportunities.

  • Explore how to explain uncertainty in your research, craft expert comments, and challenge hype.

Bring this media skills workshop to your institution

Our workshops can be tailored to the specific needs of your group