Dear Colleagues,
As members of the media and blogging community, we have the privilege — and responsibility — of shaping how stories in the tech industry are shared with the world. Media briefings and press events are crucial platforms for gaining insights and updates that are both timely and valuable to our audiences. However, it’s time we collectively address a growing concern: the quality and relevance of questions asked during these events.
Let’s be blunt. Time is of the essence during these briefings. Everyone is there for the same reason: to learn, to get accurate information, and to walk away with a better understanding of the topic at hand. Yet, all too often, these sessions are derailed by irrelevant anecdotes, personal stories, or questions that lack clarity.
Here’s the reality:
Your Background Isn’t the Story
A media briefing isn’t a platform to introduce your life story or share how you relate personally to the topic. While your perspective is valid, it has no place in a time-sensitive forum where everyone else is waiting for meaningful insights. We don’t care whether you were a former brand sales representative, or your wife works in a related field, etc. Keep it professional, and save personal conversations for after the briefing.
Relevance Is Key
Frame your questions around the topic at hand. If you’re unsure whether your question is relevant, take a moment to reconsider before speaking. Every second you spend asking a poorly formulated or unrelated question is time taken away from your peers and the event’s main purpose.
Clarity & Brevity Matter
The resource persons on stage are there to address the audience’s needs, not decipher convoluted questions. Be direct and precise. For example:
- Instead of: “I remember using your product back in the day when it was still in beta, and it reminded me of this time I…”
- Try: “How does this new feature improve the user experience compared to the beta version?”
Respect the Agenda
Press briefings are often followed by opportunities for one-on-one interviews or informal discussions. If your question requires a lengthy explanation or a back-and-forth dialogue, it’s best to hold it for those moments.
As professionals, we owe it to our peers, the organizers, and the resource persons to maximize the value of these events. Let’s uphold the integrity of our industry by asking questions that matter — questions that inform, clarify, and elevate the conversation.
Remember, your work and your audience will thank you for it.
Respectfully,
Robert “Bob” Reyes
The Filipino Tech Explainer