Likely Questions

News Value Factors

Possible Positive Points


Impact

How many people or groups affected?
What’s the impact/effect on other operations?
What’s the cost?

Steps taken to minimize impact


Timeliness

When did it happen?
When did you find out?
When did you do something about it?

Quick response, good training


Prominence

Anyone prominent involved?
Anyone prominent injured?
Prominent suspects/victims?
What’s his or her role?

We treat everyone equally


Proximity

Where did it happen?
Where are the victims/survivors from?
Any local sources/local involvement?

Concern for various local “publics”
(Varies by location)


Oddity

Has this ever happened before?
What are the odds of such an incident/accident/occurrence?

Talk about lessons learned or how your plan minimized impact.


Suspense

What will happen next?
Anyone in trouble or facing disciplinary action?
When will you know the cause?

Talk about actions you’re taking.


Conflict

How do you answer the charges made by _______?
Do you think this is really fair to _______?

Explain why you’re doing what you’re doing.


Emotion/Victims

Any women, children or elderly involved?

Say what you’re doing to help.


Sex

Were there any women involved?
What is the nature of their relationship?

Protect individual privacy.
Treat men and women equally.


Current Trends

Any connections between this issue and other recent news stories about _______?

Explain differences or similarities between this and other such incidents.


Progress

Is this a first?
Is this new technology?
What are its potential applications?

We’re always looking for a better/faster/cheaper/more efficient method.