This morning started like any other day as a GO
Communications (GO) intern. I read the paper for an hour or so, identifying and
recording articles relevant to our client.
I had a bit of a spring in my step, as this afternoon I was to assist with a press conference being held for Product of the Year (POY) Malaysia. POY
has been running for 26 years around the world, but this year is the first time it has run in Malaysia.
My assignment for the afternoon was media registration. The
media arrive, I take their card, ask them to sign in and give them a media pack.
Simple enough, but I was just happy to be a part of the event and see how a
press conference works.
The media arrived and I began to register them and direct
them to the conference room. With the conference due to commence in 20 minutes,
the Chief Operating Office of GO, Peter de Krester walked out of the conference
room directly towards me and said;
“Whitney you are going to be the MC for this press
conference”.
My automatic reaction was to reply “okay”. Soon after it sunk
in that I would be pronouncing names completely foreign to me in front of media
from Malaysia’s top newspapers, magazines and TV stations. In addition I had
the added hurdle of my Australian accent. I would need to speak slowly, clearly
and with as little accent as possible. I try to take every challenge and opportunity
that comes my way. I think the best things happen when you're out of your comfort zone.
I began madly jotting down my script as it was dictated to me
by Peter. With little time to practice, the next thing I knew I was in front of
a microphone and 30 odd media and camera crew. I introduced the nights esteemed
guests, explained the history of POY and managed media questions.
What an experience! As terrifying as it was, I am glad I was
able to rise to the challenge, and very pleased I didn’t make any major
mistakes.
During my PR career I am sure there will be many times I
will need to think on my feet and make quick decisions. I guess this was a
taster.
Whitney
