Safe as Milk

Media Training at the Linux Foundation Collaboration Summit

March 18, 2011 2:25 pm Dave Neary freesoftware, marketing

One of the things which is often lamented in free software projects is our marketing and press relations. While it’s important to avoid unfair generalisations, we have traditionally been reactive, not proactive, in dealing with the press.

A few months ago, I was talking to Jennifer Cloer, the Linux Foundation’s Director of Communications, and I asked her if she’d ever considered running a media training session for free software developers, which would help us improve the situation. She was very enthusiastic about it, and we quickly agreed that the Linux Foundation Collaboration Summit would be a great opportunity to make it happen. We made contact with Amanda McPherson, who thought it was a good idea, and the deal was done. On Thursday April 7th, we will run a 4 hour session aimed at giving participants knowledge and tools to deal more effectively with the press.

Among the topics which Jennifer will cover are:

• Building your story
• Communications “channels” and when & how to use them
• Media Training 101
• Role-Playing Media Interviews
• Social Media 101
• Q&A: Upcoming opportunities for your project

As a communications professional with lots of experience, Jennifer is really well placed to give this training. I’m personally looking forward to it, and would recommend any free software marketing people to attend. Space is limited, but open to all Summit attendees. If you do plan to attend, I’d appreciate you letting me know, so that we have an idea of the numbers we can expect.