Missouri Libertarians gathered in Jefferson City for the Libertarian Party State Convention have talked up the importance of promoting the message and taking advantage of the media to get out that message. Attendees have been instructed on how to get out the word and to make it as easy as possible for the folks in the newsrooms to grasp that message.

The Libertarians are well aware of the difficulties facing many of the news operations these days - primarily a lot of material to cover and a shortage of time in which to do it with a shrinking number of employees. A symposium on media and the message highlighted the importance of keeping the message brief and concise. And it has been suggested to those listening in on the discussion that there is a much better chance of spreading the word if letters and communiqués are sent on slow news days - Sundays, for example.

The gathering was told of how to tailor the message to different media. TV, for instance, relies on the “eye candy” message. Radio news must get a message that is succinct and concise. Radio talk shows provide the opportunity to expand, somewhat, but it is important to be relevant and on message.

Libertarians were also told of the need to reach out to all media. While there might be a tendency to bend over backwards for the major city newspapers there is a need to respect big and small market radio and television operations as well as those working for online entities. And when the opportunity presents itself the Libertarians must be credible as they get out the word regarding what they stand for.

In essence … Libertarians are instructed to be relevant, be knowledgeable of party positions on the important issues of the day, and to make it as easy as possible for media operations by being aware of deadlines those operations must meet. Bottom line: Respect the reporter and his or her time and follow through with commitments made to those media outlets. Oh, one other thing … they were told it might not be a bad idea to toss in a lunch in an effort to attract more media attention to an event!