4. Engaging with the Press

Using media platforms can be another tool for raising the profile of your campaign and can help bring your cause to broader audiences beyond activist circles. However, some activists may also choose not to engage with particular if they feel that platform doesn’t align with their core principles. If you would like to utilise the press in your campaign or are approached by them, the following section provides tips on how to engage effectively and safely.

Engaging with press for a Union-affiliated campaign

If you are an SRC Officer, head of a union subcommittee, or your campaign is affiliated with the Students’ Association (e.g. a campaign started by an SRC motion), then any press requests need to be approved by the Association President. You should email any press inquiries you get to [email protected] and wait for approval before proceeding. You should also inform the University Corporate Communications team using [email protected] .

St Andrews media outlets

Many student publications accept pitches for articles from the wider student body. If you want to pitch an article about your campaign or invite student press to report on an event you are holding, you can reach out to them by emailing their editorial team. Please be aware that union-affiliated student media, for example The Gay Saint, will also need approval from the Association President.

Advice for engaging with press

Doing work with the press can be daunting if it’s your first time, but it’s important to remember that many people feel this way and that you’re a lot better at public speaking than you think you are! The following guidance summarised from Corporate Communications can give you pointers if you’re feeling nervous to ensure you’re as prepared and comfortable as possible for your media appearance:

• Check the source – is the press request legitimate? Do you trust the outlet they represent? Does this give you the opportunity to strengthen your campaign and send the key messages you want?
• Be prepared – make sure to do your research and plan ahead what you would like to say, whether this is drafting text to be published, or making notes for an interview.
• Key messages – try to make your communication as concise as possible. Identifying key messages and centring your responses on them is a good way to do this.
• Avoid jargon – try not to use too many specialised terms within your response to make your message and aims accessible and understandable to a broad audience.
• It’s okay to say no – if you are unable to answer a question or don’t think it is relevant to your campaigning work, it is perfectly fine to say that and ask to move on!
• Breathe – if doing an interview, taking a deep breath before you speak can help you to speak at a steady, understandable pace and gives you more time to consider your response.

You can reach out to Corporate Communications for more guidance ahead of any press requests or to discuss any planned media opportunities by emailing [email protected] .