Here's how you can improve your media relations skills in Strategic Communications using feedback.

The world of media relations moves at lightning speed, demanding constant learning and growth. There is a need to embrace feedback as a powerful tool for improvement. 1. Seek Feedback: Ask for honest opinions from your boss, colleagues, clients, and even journalists. 2. Analyze Feedback: Pay close attention to what people say. Ask for clarification if needed. 3. Act: Create a plan to improve based on the feedback. Prioritize the most key areas and track your progress. 4. Focus on Media Skills: Get specific feedback on your press releases, pitches, and interview skills. By actively looking for and using feedback, you'll build valuable relationships, communicate your message effectively, and achieve your communication goals.

Take time to reflect honestly on the feedback you receive, and start by assessing your strengths and areas for improvement without being defensive. Treat honest reflection as a way to help you identify specific aspects of your skills that need enhancement. Feedback allows us to learn and improve so we can grow from it.

It's almost inevitable to receive feedback when building media relationships, and often, it is very valuable because it provides an opportunity to further tailor your strategy. Quick adaptation and openness to change demonstrates your commitment to growth and your ability to be flexible in a dynamic field.

The ability to adapt quickly to feedback is a mark of a skilled strategic communicator. You must be willing to implement changes promptly to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of media. This might involve tweaking your press releases based on a journalist's suggestions or altering your media strategy to better resonate with your target audience. Quick adaptation shows the media that you value their input and are committed to maintaining a productive relationship, which can lead to more positive coverage and a stronger brand reputation.

At the end of the day, you're building relationships with people. Spend some time understanding each media professional you are engaging with - you can also create an engagement strategy by determining which relationships support specific needs of your organisation. Make it a point to meet them without any agenda, simply to catch up. You'll be surprised how genuine connection exercises create more opportunities for mutual growth!

I remember, when my daughter first started climbing the jungle gym—she was hesitant and unsure. I watched closely, giving her gentle feedback, like “Try gripping here” or “Move your foot there.” With each suggestion, her confidence grew. In media relations, feedback acts the same way. Engage with journalists, ask for their thoughts on your pitches, and learn from their responses. It’s like fine-tuning your parenting approach; you work and adjust. Just as my daughter became more adventurous & skilled, your media relations will thrive with thoughtful, constructive feedback. If you find this relatable, there’s lots on communicate101: speaking writing tips, India’s top communication skills podcast. Knowledge grows by sharing. Let’s share!