Handling Difficult Questions: A Must-Have Leadership Skill
One of the key leadership skills for executives is the ability to effectively handle tough questions, demonstrating composure, decisiveness, and the ability to think on their feet. Corporate & Government Executives today face a barrage of questions, some more challenging than others. From sensitive topics to potential reputational damage, mastering the art of handling difficult […]
Do Not Use “To Whom It May Concern” in Stakeholder Communication
It is no secret to any senior executive, leadership team member or aspiring executive that stakeholder communication, engagement and relations are critical to the success of any organisation, company, association or project. Especially during issues and crisis management. In the business world that you are living in today, effective stakeholder communication is no longer a […]
Costly Mistakes to Avoid in Your Business Pitch Presentation
When you deliver a business pitch presentation, preparation is just as important as the product itself. This is a lesson we can learn from Alex Hall’s experience on Dragons’ Den. Alex Hall goes on Dragons’ Den (the UK equivalent of Shark Tank) to pitch her olive snack business. While the product seems to fill a […]
Communication is the new leadership superpower in 2025 – who says so and why?
The holiday season is such a great time for catch-up business reading lying on the couch, on the beach, on the sun lounger around the pool or even in bed on lazy mornings. And sometimes, with the good old hard copy newspapers! So, you can imagine my absolute delight when article after article started to […]
Why Executive Leaders Recommend Our Media Training
Are you an executive leader who knows the value of expert media training, especially when representing your organisation? You understand how important it is to learn from the experienced (former) journalists, right? See what our participants have to say about our media training services. Our media training sessions are designed to empower you with the […]
How to Open Your Executive Presentation with Presence and Power
Watch this video and see how you can captivate people this year from the start of every executive presentation or speech you do. Our video shows you the best ways to open a presentation for instant attention and engagement. First impressions matter, make yours unforgettable! For 16 tips on crafting a powerful presentation opener, email […]
How Important Is Media Training for Corporate Leaders?
In today’s fast-paced media landscape, the importance of media training for corporate leaders is undeniable—out of 14 votes received 93% of respondents in our recent poll agree that every leader should have it! At Communication & Media Manoeuvres, we specialise in Media Training for executive leaders across Australia, equipping them with the tools to communicate […]
Handling High-Pressure Situations with Media and Stakeholder Training
Media training and stakeholder communication programs are designed to equip corporate executives with essential tools to remain poised under pressure. From practicing deep breathing and centering techniques to learning how to avoid impulsive reactions, these skills empower leaders to handle tough questions with confidence and deliver clear, thoughtful responses. We all know how high-pressure situations […]
Leadership Lessons: Bill Shorten’s Dual Citizenship Misstep
Even the most seasoned politicians can fall into an obvious trap, and Bill Shorten’s experience during the dual citizenship controversy serves as a prime example of a valuable leadership lesson. As he wraps up his impressive career in federal parliament, it’s worth reflecting on key moments like this one. When asked in an interview to […]
6 Steps to Fix Mistakes in a Media Interview
Making a mistake during a media interview can feel troubling, but it doesn’t have to throw off your message or credibility. Whether it’s a misstep in phrasing, an inaccurate fact, or a response that didn’t land as intended, knowing how to address and correct errors gracefully is a vital skill for anyone facing the press. […]
Which Aspect of Online Presentation Do You Find Most Challenging?
Online presentations come with their fair share of challenges, and our recent poll highlights the top two: mastering on-camera presence (33%) and managing the technical side (33%)! Keeping your audience engaged and creating clear, varied content aren’t far behind, each with 17% of the votes. Struggling to keep your audience hooked during an executive presentation? […]
Poor Communication Causes Lost Trust and a Harmed Reputation
During a high level issue or crisis, failing to address poor communication can lead you to significant challenges, including confusion, misinformation, and a loss of trust among stakeholders. Ineffective communication – that is, the wrong messages – can escalate the situation, hinder decision-making, and harm your organisation’s reputation, making recovery more difficult. Transparency, openness, the […]
Leadership Communication: Responding to Stakeholders with Confidence and Clarity
How confident are you in demonstrating your leadership communication skills with stakeholders? You’re a GM or an Executive Leader of your department. Imagine being in a meeting when you are pitching for some new business or trying to sell in a new direction for your team, and one of the stakeholders asks you a question, […]
Turning Stakeholder Communication from Mixed Signals to Strong Connections
How well does stakeholder communication work in your workplace? Ever feel like communicating with stakeholders is like playing a game of telephone? Improving stakeholder communication doesn’t have to be a comedy of errors. Clear messaging, active listening, and a dash of humour can go a long way in bridging gaps and building stronger relationships. Remember, […]
Gratitude and Reflections: Thank You for a Remarkable Year with Communication & Media Manoeuvres
As the year draws to a close, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to our clients, partners and connections for making Communication & Media Manoeuvres an integral part of your growth and success this year. The festive season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and looking ahead to exciting opportunities in the new year. […]
How Metaphors Simplify Crisis Communication and Enhance Clarity
How Metaphors Simplify and Clarify Crisis Communication? In times of crisis, clear and effective communication is essential to reduce confusion and build public trust. One powerful tool that leaders and communicators often use is metaphor—a technique that simplifies complex ideas by relating them to familiar concepts. A striking example comes from Michael Outram, Commissioner of […]
Why Running Away from Reporters After Court Can Backfire
There’s nothing that can make someone look more guilty when leaving a court appearance than running away from reporters! But the journalist seems to have been prepared for this situation (wearing her running shoes) and does a great job keeping up with the former local councillor, as does the intrepid cameraman. The better plan would […]
Start the Year 2025 Strong by Sharpening Your Executive Presentation Skills
As the year 2024 draws to a close, many of us reflect on our accomplishments and set new goals for the year ahead. One area that often goes overlooked is the art of effective communication—especially the ability to deliver impactful executive presentations. Whether you’re speaking to your team, pitching to clients, or addressing stakeholders, strong executive presentation skills are a cornerstone of professional success.
Stakeholder Communication In A Crisis – Why Is It Important?
Your reputation is a valuable asset. It’s hard to build and it can be destroyed in an instant. So, it’s wise to plan for good stakeholder communication. Think of this as a form of insurance for your reputation. Like any insurance, it’s worth doing your homework and investing carefully. Getting your communication right will help […]
Royal Commissions and Government Inquiries – Surviving the Spotlight
You wouldn’t face a criminal hearing without legal advice, so why face a public hearing without professional help in communication? It’s stressful enough to face a Royal Commission or a Senate Estimates hearing, or any government inquiry for that matter. On top of that, you’re usually being live streamed outside the hearing room, and the […]
There are only two things you need to know to get priceless, free Media Coverage For You and Your Business
There are not many things free in life these days but when it comes to marketing or getting profile for you and your business, it is staring us all in the face. Media coverage! There has never been a better time because TV, radio and newspaper journalists are desperate for stories. And if you know […]
On The Dotted Line…
We’re all publishers now The most famous formula in the world is undoubtedly Albert Einstein’s E=MC2 It’s been adapted and modified for everything from posters to T-shirts, and was even used as an album title by Mariah Carey, who breathlessly explained it stood for Emancipation = Mariah Carey twice. But one of the most useful […]
Women in Tony Abbott's Cabinet & the reputation of spokespeople to the Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse
Sam Elam’s segment on ABC radio’s Behind The Media with Nicole Chvastek this week looks at the lack of women in PM Tony Abbott’s Cabinet, the thoughts of Ita Buttrose on the subject and how the reputation of organisations and their spokespeople appearing before the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse will […]
Audio: Media & Publicity – What makes a story?
Sam Elam Managing Director, of Media Manoeuvres talks about the way media works, media training and big stories like a Royal baby the birth of Prince George and Kevin Rudd’s PNG Manus plan for asylum seekers. Click to listen to the interview Sam gave to top rating ABC broadcaster Nicole Chvastek on ABC Radio: [audio http://www.commsmanoeuvres.com.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/BEHIND-THE-MEDIA-SAM-ELAM.mp3]
Media Manoeuvres knows the media
Media Manoeuvres knows the media. Why? Because that’s our speciality. Media Manoeuvres, Australia’s largest media training and reputation management company, tailors all training to our clients’ precise needs. We have an outstanding team of award-winning journalists, executive coaches, strategic communications advisors and media communication specialists. We deliver the highest-quality media training and strategic media services […]
