We’ve all heard it and many believe it: “They’re going to write it anyway, with or without our input, so we need to engage.”
This isn’t true. It isn’t true often enough to be parroted as often as we do.
Commanders don’t believe it and we shouldn’t either. The fact is, sometimes they’re going to write it anyway, sometimes they’re not.
The good news is, since you’re a MaxDis reader you already have a good relationship with the media. You can have a thoughtful conversation with a journalist and find out, “if they’re going to write it anyway.”
I’ve had journalists flat out tell me, “I’m going to write this with or without your comment.” I challenge them on this.
Your comment makes their story stronger. Editors often will only allow the story to be published if an official comment is provided.
So no, they’re not necessarily going to report it anyway. Sometimes it’s your comment which allows them to report it [anyway].
Photo by Airman 1st Class Zoie Rider
