Radio Free Ritz

Interesting development in the world of political communications today.

 

I received this press release earlier.

 

It's from Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, and it encourages Canadians to show support for 4-H Clubs.

 

What sets this apart from the dozens (if not hundreds) of similar press releases I receive daily is its attachments: three audio files of Minister Ritz reading excerpts of the press release - "clips" we would call them in the biz.

 

They come complete with a noisy background so it sounds a lot like the clips we gather daily in the Foyer of the House of Commons - but this way, the minister doesn't have to deal with pesky reporters asking annoying questions!

 

Have a listen:

 

I'd like to offer Mr Ritz some constructive criticism, if I may.

 

Your enunciation and pacing are great - clear and not too rushed.

 

But you need to lift the words off the page. Imagine you're telling this to your best friend and really want them to listen!

 

That will make it a far more compelling read that will better engage the listener.

 

And by the way, you can't have my job, I'm unionized!