Get started with one of our media training programs to build on your success and deliver focused, consistent messaging to media and large audiences with ease.

The BurnsGroup team excels at media training and we can custom tailor a program for both individuals and groups, as well as novices and those more experienced working with the media.

Our media training packages frequently include: public speaking training, including mock interviews; image and appearance consulting; message point and Q&A preparation; crisis communications planning; and guidance on focusing messages and branding for interview inclusion, as well as other training services.

Training is customized for the individual, the group/team or the sponsor/corporation so that the specific needs and concerns are addressed for the parties participating. Private coaching and group training are available. Our fees are structured on the levels that are most suited for the specific needs for the individual/class. Each participant will complete an analysis to reveal key areas on which to focus during the training. Participants will be able to keep a copy of mock interviews for review and continued improvement and practice outside the training.

In an era with instant news cycles 24 hours a day, now with social media in addition to traditional media outlets, BurnsGroup can also assist with your communications needs. We provide a range of social services from consultation, training and strategy to implementation and account management.

MEDIA INTERVIEWS

Although conducting an interview can be difficult for some and easy for others, conveying the right message, being the one in control and maximizing your media/podium time is a skill that takes practice. Understanding the nuances between broadcast, radio, print and internet media helps make any athlete or professional a better interview. Being prepared and knowing the expectations of a seasoned journalist can also help to ace an interview easily. Being fully prepared and briefed on press conferences can make or break the outcome and success level. Mock interviews are part of the process to ease the stage fright and improve speech and interview delivery.

IMAGE/APPEARANCE

A first impression is a lasting one. As a sports professional, you can best control your own image and reputation by creating it yourself instead of letting it be created by the media or fans. An untarnished reputation and a professional persona is what will pay off in the future with sponsors and endorsements. This includes your appearance both within the sporting environment and outside it, your perceived character, your ability to communicate and relate to the people, your body language and your attitude and ego perception. Being able to separate yourself from the others in your field and develop your own positive style takes a dedicated effort and effective training.

TEAM/SPONSOR REPRESENTATION

Most athletes are part of a team or at least a team effort. Whether college, professional or Olympic sporting team, or part of a sponsored amateur team, many athletes have to represent themselves as more than just an individual. Being able to fit your team or sponsor's name into a 20-second sound bite without sounding like a shameless plug is an art. Showing your own individuality while still being a team player can be challenging for the untrained or unprepared.

BIO/STATISTICS

Keeping up with one's own achievements and/or helping the team or sponsor's representative stay updated is tedious but crucial. No one knows an athlete's accomplishments better than himself/herself. For the novice athlete who is trying to break into a more professional arena, their bio and statistics is their resume to reach the next level. Representing oneself professionally both on paper and in person can help distinguish one athlete from the many others.

PREVENTION

Athletes are under a sharper microscope in today's society. Exposure and media coverage is part of daily life for many athletes. Their every move is analyzed and dissected, especially now with so many athletes having been involved in scandals or arrests. Managing perception needs careful attention and preparation. Avoiding bad situations, politically incorrect phrases and being prepared for when a crisis occurs is important.