Making the Media Work for You! If you approach, or you’re approached by the media on any intellectual property (IP) relevant case studies, a particular infringement you may have experienced or if you are consistently copied and want to shout about it, follow ACID’s top ten tips to maximise your media opportunities.
1. Prepare Key Talking Points
Stick to the core narrative: clearly outline the personal impact of the IP infringement case, cost, time, and stress and explain a little about your business.
Connect to the bigger picture: emphasise how your case illustrates the broader need for IP policy reform. Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) and be specific, e.g., many are experiencing online infringement by the likes of Temu, Shein, Etsy etc.
Mention Anti Copying in Design (ACID): repeatedly refer to your organisation’s role in the overall campaigning work of ACID, and as the catalyst for raising awareness and driving change. This will be for the benefit of many more who are experiencing similar issues.
2. Focus on Storytelling
Share a compelling, personal story that evokes empathy and resonates with the audience.
Highlight specific challenges faced due to IP infringement and the impact on your life or work and your future and future income.
3. Be Concise and Clear
Keep your points succinct and avoid overwhelming the media contact with technical jargon.
Practice delivering key soundbites that can easily be quoted by the media, such as “I and many UK designers are signatories to the ACID IP Charter which calls for Corporate Social Responsibility – IP respect, ethics and compliance.”
4. Be Authentic and Relatable
Maintain authenticity in your tone and delivery to build trust with the audience.
Share specific anecdotes or details that make your story relatable.
5. Align Messaging with ACID Goals – Prevention, Deterrence, Education & Awareness, Support, Campaigning
Collaborate with ACID’s organisation’s public affairs, campaigning, and IP Director to ensure consistent messaging.
Use approved phrases or talking points that encapsulate the organisation’s stance on IP reform (refer to the reportage on www.acid.uk.com)
6. Emphasise ACID’s Support
Acknowledge how ACID’s campaigning and support has helped you navigate the situation or given your story a platform.
Use statements like: “Without Anti Copying in Design (ACID), I wouldn’t have been able to understand my rights or felt able and supported to fight this battle.”
7. Redirect Broader Questions to ACID
If the media asks policy or technical questions beyond your scope, refer them to ACID: “I recommend speaking to Dids Macdonald Chair & Co-founder of Anti Copying in Design) [email protected] for a broader perspective on this issue.”
8. Prepare for Difficult Questions
Anticipate challenging or sensitive questions about your case or the ACID’s stance.
Respond with grace and redirect focus back to the overarching mission and your story’s relevance.
9. Leverage on Social Media
Share links to media coverage and tag ACID in your posts.
Encourage your followers to engage with and amplify your story to expand its reach.
10. Seek Media Training or Support
There are many help organisations who offer advice on refining your communication skills.
Consult with the ACID team for guidance and review of your planned statements.
By following these tips, individual members can effectively advocate for their case, enhance ACID’s visibility, and contribute to the broader goal of IP policy reform. A united and collective voice is a stronger voice to challenge those who steal the IP of others without conscience.