Working with the Media

The AAA Press Office offers resources to help members promote their work and share anthropological knowledge with public audiences. For media relations assistance, please contact Jeff Martin at jmartin@americananthro.org, or call 703-528-1902 ext. 1163.

Media Relations Guide

The AAA has prepared a comprehensive guide titled, "Anthropology & Media: A (Nearly) Pain-Free Guide to Working with the Press." The guide is available in PDF here.

The following PDF tipsheets are included in the guide: 

• Is it News?- Includes a series of questions to help you determine whether your item is newsworthy and promotable.
• Making Contact- Tips on identifying press to promote your news to.
• Writing Press Releases- Guidelines for crafting a professional press release.
• Press Release Starter - A template of standard elements to help get you started on pulling your release together, plus a sample press release.
• Interviewing - Pointers on handling interviews, including those for TV and radio; how to handle "off the record" situations; how to decline to comment; and post-interview tips.
• Editorial Options- Explains opinion and commentary opportunities worth exploring.

Additional Resources

The following is a list of content - created by AAA and others - that offers further advice and insights about working with the media:

• AAA Members in the News - A listing of articles, TV/radio appearances, and op-ed articles that feature AAA members. For members, MIN can offer insight into the areas of anthropology that are getting news buzz. 
• Center for Anthropology and Science Communications- Get ideas from this center on how to present information to the press.
• Society for Professional Journalists and Poynter Institute - These organizations offer guidance and training to professional journalists and others interested in journalism. They can be helpful in exploring journalism ethics and practices.