4000-5-14 Release of Information for the Media

Policy

Statements to media representatives regarding College Policy are to be made only by the President, Senior Leadership Team member or their designate, or an approved spokesperson.

Guidelines for Staff

The process of informing the public, through media, about Lambton College should be considered an important part of the Corporate Communications strategy. Raising awareness through this channel will result in continuing to raise the profile of the College and support of Lambton College stakeholders.

Traditional forms of media along with social media, website, paid advertising, and other promotional materials such as the Program Guide are important tools the Marketing, Recruitment and Communications Department use as an effective form of advertising, public relations, and brand recognition.

One important way to raise awareness about the College is for stakeholders to read about news and events in print publications, online, social media, or hear on the radio about highlights and activities taking place at Lambton College.

Lambton College cannot demand that activities be aired or published - it is an editor's choice to decide what is newsworthy. However, as a College, we can work diligently to bring important highlights and news announcements to the attention of the media on a regular basis.

The following guidelines were drawn up to help faculty and staff in situations where they are contacted by a reporter, or when they think an activity or announcement might be of interest to the general public.

Prime Contact

The Director, Marketing, Communications & Brand Management is the College's primary contact for all news media representatives. They should be contacted immediately if faculty or staff are contacted by a reporter, or if they have information they would like to see publicized. The Corporate Communications Coordinator should also be notified of any contact you have had with a media outlet; in the event you cannot reach the Director.

Establishing An Effective Relationship with Reporters

If you are contacted directly by a reporter and he/she asks you a question, it is important to contact the Director or Corporate Communications Coordinator immediately.

Please Pass on Immediately

Deadlines are common with media and respect for their deadlines governing a reporter's job should be adhered to, if at all possible.

Honesty is Lambton College's Policy

When dealing with the news media, the College's spokespeople must always be honest. The College is a public institution and the public has a right to know about all College activities.

A simple response, such as, "I don't know, but I'll find out who does and get back to you," with a thorough follow-up, is the type of honest answer which can foster a good relationship with the news media, not to mention the general public.

Referrals

Often the Director will approve another content expert employee to respond to a media question. In such an instance, it is recommended that the Director or the Corporate Communications Coordinator helps to prepare a response or speaking notes.

The President and the members of the Senior Leadership Team are also official spokespersons for all matters relating to overall College philosophy, policy and development.