Customised training RAMHPs up media skills
Melinda Smith interviews RAMHP co-ordinator during media training.
The 20 co-ordinators from the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) provide mental health promotion and educational activities and link people with appropriate services in communities across regional, rural and remote NSW.
Part of a RAMPH co-ordinator’s role involves working with the media to raise awareness about mental health issues and available support. They are often called on to be a spokesperson on mental health.
We had the pleasure of developing and delivering a customised media training program to the team in March 2023.
The Media Training Challenge
The co-ordinators are located across NSW but were coming together at Port Macquarie for a three day planning, skills development and team building conference. The conference had a packed agenda which much to get through.
The brief was to give each co-ordinator tools plus practical experience in doing an interview.
We needed to develop a program that met the needs of a large group of people in a time effective way. The co-ordinators are involved in media to varying degrees and were at various stages of competency and experience. Most of the staff had received some media training previously which we needed to complement and extend.
The Media Training Solution
We ran a two-hour afternoon session for all 20 co-ordinators to give them an understanding of the media so they can work most effectively with media outlets. Each co-ordinator also received tips, tools and strategies to use when planning for and delivering effective media interviews like a pro. Armed with our Peak Presenting formula and tool they quickly prepared for an interview about a chosen work related event or issue.
While the focus of our workshops was effective media interviews, participants saw how they could apply the workshop learnings to videos, podcasts and the training, community presentations and forums that they deliver.
The next day, groups of six rotated through a one and a half hour session where they each took part in a five minute mock radio interview with workshop co-facilitator and former journalist Melinda Smith. Co-facilitator Craig Eardley and other members of the group provided constructive feedback to each participant. The interviews were recorded so participants could review them again later.
Giving feedback to media training participants from RAMHP
The Results
Without exception, every interview went very well – better than each participant expected. All would have engaged radio listeners and importantly, the key desired messages were delivered.
All participants said they were more confident about doing media in the future than prior to the workshop. All agreed that the training provided helpful information and materials, that the content was well organised, that the presenters were clear and easy to understand and that they felt engaged in the training.
Here’s some direct feedback from participant evaluation forms:
“The best training for media I have experienced – thank you.”
“Everything was explained so clearly, and easily followed. I feel much more confident now.”
“Really valuable. Pitched at a level that was relevant to our roles.”
“Great facilitation and sharing of knowledge. Would recommend your training to others.”
“Best media workshop I have done.”
“Thanks for such thorough preparation to understand our program, roles, audience and how media relates to our roles.”
“This training will definitely help my media engagement in the future.”
“Mel and Craig were great – very interesting and engaging.”
Keys to the Media Training's Success
Customised training and content to meet the needs and skills levels of participants.
Dual workshop facilitators to maximise engagement, learning outcomes and support for participants.
Our facilitators combined extensive and current experience, and knowledge of journalism and public relations.
A combination of proven, practical tips and tools with an opportunity to utilise them during media interviews conducted in small groups, in a safe and encouraging space.
About RAMHP
The Rural Adversity Mental Health Program is funded by the NSW Government and managed by Grand Pacific Health.
Co-ordinators are employed by NSW Local Area Health Districts to work in local communities. They link, train, inform and partner with others to provide personalised advice to link people needing assistance for their mental health to the most appropriate services and resources.
To find your nearest RAMHP co-ordinator or mental health resources visit www.ramhp.com.au
Need customised media training or presentations skills training for your staff?
Contact Peak Presenting to discuss your needs today.