In this bilingual workshop, Mr. Chapman reviewed the basics of traditional and new media for the RCMP. Traditional media meaning newspapers, tv/phone/radio interviews, and press releases. Whereas new media refers to anything digital, like social media. Mr. Chapman taught participants how to create the products for themselves, and where each type of media is beneficial, as well as how to give a good interview for proactive and reactive cases.

The bulk of the training centered around best practices when dealing with the public through media. Sometimes for proactive and responsive media, members of the RCMP need to work with other departments and organizations. Mr. Chapman educated participants on how best to collaborate with other departments of media pieces and messaging. The key components of this lesson being: Plan in advance, 8:2 ratio, Scanning, and Clarify Expectations.

When it comes to being reactive, it is best to be quick and timely. Participants were advised to align their team, determine their stance and, most importantly, prepare in advance. To assist in this preparation, the workshop included modules on the following: How to position yourself for success when giving an interview both in person and via Zoom. How to get an interview back on track. How to give an apology interview. When you should express regret.

At the end of the workshop, participants were encouraged to practice what they had learned in groups of two by providing different RCMP related scenarios of events and having the partners interview each other. They were asked to use examples of techniques they had learned, and were encouraged to interview each other in front of the group. This allowed their fellow participants a chance to share feedback.