What should you do if approached for a media interview? We are not experts on this subject but we have done a bit of research and here are a few tips -
1. Ask the reporter what he/she is trying to achieve. Reporters will be given a story to chase up. So, yes, they will have an agenda. There is nothing wrong with that. The point is, that if you know the agenda in advance, it will help you frame your answers.
2. If you don't know the answer to a question, say so. In other words, be honest and don't attempt to make up an answer.
3. Be polite. Reporters will often be looking for a controversial answer. That's fine, but try and do it without denigrating market management or council. You can be critical without going over the top.
4. Be positive. Even negative subjects can be put in a positive light. Last weekend the ABC were doing a story on the decline of business in the market. We know of at least one trader who answered "Times are tough but, fortunately, we are better off than shopping centres because we give personal service to our customers."
5. Relax. It is often said that any publicity is good publicity. If you answer the questions truthfully, you have nothing to apologize for.
A big thank you to all those who were brave enough to talk to the ABC TV crew this week.