This course is designed to help executives and decision-makers navigate the digital landscape effectively, positioning them as authentic and influential voices within their organizations and industries. It equips leaders with the practical skills needed for effective media interaction, particularly when addressing difficult or controversial topics.

The course highlights leaders as social media “ambassadors,” using their online presence to enhance reputation, drive engagement, and communicate effectively. Participants will learn to craft compelling content, connect with their audience, and balance professionalism with authenticity.

This tailor-made course focuses on building essential media and communication skills, including:

• Mastering media interactions – Stay calm under pressure, handle tough questions, and navigate challenging interviews with confidence.
• Crisis communication strategies – Manage high-stakes situations, protect your organization's reputation, and maintain control in press conferences.
• Effective public speaking – Deliver powerful speeches, presentations, and video messages that engage and inspire.
• Social media for leaders – Leverage digital platforms to amplify key messages, engage audiences, and manage your online presence.
• Personalized coaching – Receive continuous feedback and tailored guidance to refine your messaging, style, and impact.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Handle media pressure with confidence – Stay composed, handle tough questions, and navigate crises with confidence.
• Speak with impact – Communicate persuasively in video, live events, and press conferences.
• Control the narrative – Use strategic messaging to shape discussions and maintain authority in challenging interviews.
• Maximize social media influence – Engage audiences, amplify key messages, and manage digital presence with confidence.
• Refine skills through expert coaching – Apply feedback, refine delivery, and build lasting confidence in media engagements.

• Flexible delivery options: The course is designed with flexibility in mind, offering delivery options that include in-person, online, or on-site training. This ensures that the course meets the logistical needs of your organization, regardless of location.
• Customized curriculum: Each course is tailored to address the specific challenges your senior leadership team faces in media communications. Whether your focus is on crisis communication, public speaking, or handling media interactions, we can adjust the content to meet your organizational needs.
• Interactive and participatory methodologies: The course relies on interactive methodologies, such as simulated media interviews, crisis communication role-plays, and public speaking exercises. These real-world scenarios are designed to help participants practice and improve their communication skills in realistic contexts. Each participant receives personalized coaching and feedback to fine-tune their techniques.

Day 1: Media training and public speaking

• 09:00-10:30: Understanding media dynamics and shaping your message – Overview of the media landscape, with strategies for tailoring your message to different media outlets and audiences.
• 11:00-12:30: Mastering media interviews with difficult questions – Techniques for staying calm and composed during tough or hostile questions while maintaining control of the narrative.
• 14:00-15:30: Press conference simulation – A realistic press conference scenario, where participants role-play fielding challenging questions from journalists under pressure.
• 15:45-17:00: Coaching session: Responding to controversial questions – Personalized coaching with feedback on handling sensitive or controversial issues effectively in media settings.

Day 2: Crisis communication 

• 09:00-10:30: Crisis communication strategies: Protecting your organization’s reputation – Learn the best practices for managing media interactions during a crisis, ensuring clear, consistent messaging that safeguards your organization's image.
• 11:00-12:30: Managing media pressure during a crisis – Focus on strategies for handling the intense pressure of media scrutiny during a crisis while keeping your message on track.
• 14:00-15:30: Crisis simulation: Real-world application – Engage in a hands-on simulation, where participants respond to a live crisis scenario, practicing real-time media engagement and decision-making.
• 15:45-17:00: Coaching session: Effective crisis communication – One-on-one coaching focused on refining your crisis communication skills, with feedback on your response techniques during the simulation.

Day 3: Social media leadership

• 09:00-10:30: Building your digital leadership brand – Explore the key elements of a strong, consistent social media presence and how to manage your personal and organizational brand online.
• 11:00-12:30: Engaging with audiences: Best practices for social media – Learn effective strategies for engaging with your audience, from crafting thoughtful posts to interacting with followers in a professional manner.
• 14:00-15:30: Handling sensitive topics on social media – Techniques for addressing controversial or sensitive issues with clarity and tact, ensuring your responses reflect strong leadership.
• 15:45-17:00: Coaching session: Navigating social media crises – Personalized coaching on managing and responding to a social media crisis, with feedback on addressing online issues while maintaining your reputation.

Designed for senior managers, directors, and decision makers who engage with media, stakeholders, and the public. Ideal for leaders handling high-pressure communications, public perception, and crisis response.

For inquiries and to customize a training programme for your organization, please contact us at learninginnovation@itcilo.org.