Andrew Bogut Will Recover From Big Media Blunder Says Media Training Expert Thomas Murrell Of 8M Media and Communications

July 08, 2005 (PRLEAP.COM) Media News
Australian basketballer Andrew Bogut is now officially in the top four of Australia's sporting rich list after signing a five-year deal with the Milwaukee Bucks worth about A$37 million.

This comes after being selected No. 1 overall in the NBA draft.

"His earnings are expected to soar even higher when endorsements and sponsorship deals are factored in, but sponsors won't be happy with his performance in his first global media conference," said Thomas Murrell, CEO of Australian-based media, marketing and management consulting company, 8M Media and Communications.

The 213-cm or 7-foot tall basketballer has already picked up a Nike contract that is reportedly worth $6.7 million over the next five years and Bogut is in line for a sports drink endorsement.

"His media comments critical of famous Australian names such as Luc Longley, Andrew Gaze and Shane Heal at that media conference could damage his personal brand and earning power," Mr Murrell said.

"What he needs is media training to be able to handle the world's media spotlight,"

Mr Murrell believes Bogut's comments were inappropriate and showed a lack of media-savvy experience.

"When you throw comments like that out in the public arena you can't take them back."

"While he may be confident, the media love conflict, especially a cynical Australian media," Mr Murrell said.

"He's had to learn fast how undisciplined comments can come undone, especially at critical moments such as his signing when he's in the public eye," Mr Murrell said.

Bogut is now having to clarify his comments every time he speaks to the media as his comments at a recent media conference indicate.

So, a tough lesson for the 20-year old from Melbourne with Croatian parents.

How could he have handled it better?

Here are Thomas Murrell's five lessons from the Bogut Media Blunder that can be applied to any business, community or sporting spokesperson.

1. Don't Pass Judgments On Others In Public
Keep your personal views to yourself.

2. Compliment, Don't Criticise
Always compliment others and be positive.

3. Be Humble
Confidence is good but those who are most influential link this with humility.

4. Let Your Actions Speak For Themselves
Enough said.

5. Get Good Advisors Around You
In this case, this whole stoush could have been avoided with good advice and some clear thinking and coaching prior to his media conference.

ENDS