Our policy for dealing with the media is to respond quickly and politely. Do not refuse to speak to media representatives or fail to return their phone calls. News is only news for a very short time, and the media must print or broadcast something. It's better if that something comes directly from a spokesperson for our company.
In general, it is best to refer media calls to me. I'm trained to deal with the media, and individual reporters are likely to prefer dealing with me in any case. If I am not available, Nancy Anne Hart, my administrative assistant, will know whom to call.
If no one is available and you must talk with a media representative, be sure that you do not give him or her misleading or incomplete information. Do not provide any information that could be construed as proprietary or personal. Do not give opinions--only factual information. If you do not know the answer to a question, say so. Never speculate. Your speculation is likely to be printed as a fact.
