Case Studies : Government

Department of Justice

This case study is an example of senior official, individual media relations training and improvement in message delivery and quotes in the press. The training focused on understanding media rules, message clarity, handling difficult Q&A and maintaining control in an interview.

CommCore consultants were retained by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to prepare senior appointed officials for media interactions.  The media events included press briefings, interviews, press conferences and media question and answer sessions surrounding high profile cases and policies within DOJ.  The objective to focus on government issues, not politics.

Consultants worked with these senior officials – in groups and in one-on-one sessions.  Following instruction, mock interviews and critiques followed. The role play several high-profile cases and policy matters, with the goal of answering questions while without divulging proprietary information and maintaining official credibility under intense questioning.

After completion of this assignment, these DOJ officials received high marks from government officials and the press corps for their ability to address the public on critical issues.

Services Provided:
Media Training
Message Development

Architect of the Capitol

This case study illustrates senior official presentation evaluation, message development, coaching, and rigorous question and answer training for Congressional testimony.

CommCore Consulting Group was retained to coach the Architect of the Capitol for testimony regarding budgets and specific items for remodeling of the Capitol building. This assignment was particularly complex due to budget constraints in Congress while at the same time a compelling need to overhaul the very building congress worked in every day.

CommCore assisted the official to develop a metaphor to help explain the delicate issues of cost overruns and delays.  The Architect began his five minute statement comparing the Capitol building with a vintage Ford Thunderbird auto that needed to install a catalytic converter.  It’s much easier to buy a new car with all the emissions technology, but it may not look as nice, the official explained.

This opening statement helped set a better tone in what was a difficult hearing.

Services Provided:
Presentation Training
Message Development
Witness Preparation Training