Engage with Communications
Tell your story with impact.
When your research is ready for the spotlight, partner with Communications. Whether you’re announcing a new discovery, launching a startup, or preparing for media interviews, your college’s communications can help you craft compelling narratives and coordinate with the Office of Technology Transfer to manage licensing and commercialization inquiries.
Why it matters:
- Strategic storytelling increases visibility and credibility.
- Media training prepares you for interviews and public speaking.
- Coordinated messaging ensures consistency across platforms.
What to do:
- Contact communications early—especially before major announcements.
How to Engage Effectively
- Reach Out Early
- Contact communications before major announcements.
- Share embargoed papers, visuals, and background info.
- Collaborate on Content
- Work with Strategic Communications team on announcements regarding publications.
- Work together with your College or Institute communications team on general research content, social media posts.
- Provide quotes, context, and visuals to support your story.
- Prepare for Media Engagement
- Practice key messages and soundbites.
- Learn how to handle tough questions and stay on message.
- Coordinate with OTT for commercialization-related inquiries.
Media Do's and Don'ts
Do:
- Be responsive and available for interviews.
- Use analogies and stories to explain complex topics.
- Share visuals and real-world applications.
- Stick to the science.
- Work with Strategic Communications if the media contacts you directly.
Don’t:
- Use jargon or overly technical language.
- Speculate beyond your data.
- Ignore media requests without explanation.
- Work with the media without guidance from Strategic Communications.
- Don’t involve or sway into political or heated perspectives.