Even though many are still working from home, portfolio managers are busier than ever. Has your firm suggested you participate in media training? Are you thinking it's a waste of time?
You may be thinking, "I'm an experienced manager - I know what I'm doing," or "I don't have time, I have shareholders in need!"
Well, that’s exactly why your firm has slotted you to participate in a media training program!
You need media training because, in our ever-changing investing environment that is constantly pulled and tugged by volatility, far-reaching geopolitical events, and noise coming from all too many pundits, you need to differentiate yourself from the competition.
What you'll learn
At media training, you will learn how to be smart (which we know you are) and sell your firm. With laser-like focus, you'll develop your key investing process messages in a direct and succinct fashion. You’ll learn it's not a good idea to "just wing it" during an interview. Further, you'll learn the importance of being prepared and staying on message even when you are asked that goofy macro question about something you don't care about. Through media training, you'll realize you can handle such questions via well-established bridging techniques to bring you back to your key investing messages. If you are prepared and focused, you will feel more comfortable, confident, and in control. By extension, your current and future shareholders feel more confident in your stewardship of your fund.
Build your brand
It’s not just about being a credible source—it’s also about being an enjoyable one with proper etiquette. You won’t be asked back if you’re bulldozing the reporter’s questions or talking completely off-topic. Once you have undergone media training, you’ll establish yourself as a likable resource who reporters will want to talk to again. When markets are volatile or geopolitical issues are at hand, you may be called on to explain how your strategy is navigating such obstacles. Public relations isn’t just for market conditions suited for your fund—it’s about telling (and selling!) your story regardless of the market. This is how media training, and the whole public relations process, helps you get noticed. This brand recognition can speed up the sales process with retail and institutional investors.
For other invaluable interview tips, you might find these resources to be of interest:
