The media loves a good charitable works story during the Christmas season. With cameras and microphones pointed in the direction of many missions and nonprofits, ministry leaders can use media coverage to share a greater message of service that can last well into the new year.
- Identify your long-term message. Are you kicking off a larger fundraising effort? Hoping to expand your ministry? Know what message you want to communicate to the audience before the interview begins, and practice several ways to say it.
- Have statistics at your fingertips. Media covers charitable organizations at Thanksgiving and Christmas for a reason – but make sure you have the information at hand to show that the need exists year round. Know the costs to serve a meal, provide a bed or offer services to those you serve.
- Offer specific ways to help. If your volunteer schedule is jam-packed already, direct the positive energy toward a longer-term goal through online donations, an upcoming project or the support of prayer.
- Share stories with an emotional connection. Be able to quickly relate a story that showcases your ministry’s mission with a personal anecdote. Make an emotional connection with the viewers.
- Be ready with a “one last thing.” Many reporters will give spokespeople a chance to add one last message at the end of the interview. Know exactly what you want to inspire in your viewers in that 10-second soundbite and give them a call to action. Invite them to visit a website, send a donation or connect via social media.
