Press Conferences

One or two weeks prior to the press conference

• Set the date and time.
• Select a location. Make sure it is convenient for the media. Consider a location that would provide good visuals but think about things like traffic, noise, and accessibility.
• Invite other participants.
• Create a media list and go where the media is going to be.
• Write a news advisory.

Four days before the press conference

• Fax the news advisory to all media sources.
• Prepare your statement and learn it.
• Prepare press packets. Include a press release, fact sheets, brochures, news clips and visuals. Notify them that there will be "photo opportunities."
• Confirm speakers.

The day before the press conference

• Make reminder calls to all media sources so they know about the event and send press releases

Day of the press conference

• Call all media sources again to confirm that they have the information on the event.
• Get to the site early and have it set up 30 minutes before the press is due to arrive.
• Have someone greet the press.
• Start the press conference on time.
• Follow up with the media that did not attend. Deliver or fax out news releases to all print media soures and make follow up calls.
• Send press release to your political targets right before the media. They will respect this.
• Keep good records.

The day after the press conference

• Clip articles, tape the news and record the radio. Use this media to your advantage. Send clips to your representatives or targets in your campaign.