The Interfolio Blog

The Colbert Report is known as a politically motivated and entertaining talk-show spoof hosted by Stephen Colbert. Though the guests are often involved in politics somehow, last week, Paul Muldoon of Princeton University took the stage. As an Irish poet and academic, Paul Muldoon's presence on such a widely viewed television show not only provided exposure for the English and Poetry department at Princeton University, but it also provided Mr. Muldoon with the opportunity to read a bit of his own poetry, talk about his recent book, Plan B, and answer questions about the general importance of poetry. Though some may find it strange or vain for an academic to be in the mainstream media like this, faculty-media relations can be a vital addition to academic responsibilities and can have a lasting beneficial impact on a professor's reputation and career.

In fact, a Chronicle article this week dealt specifically with barriers to, and benefits of, successful faculty-media relations. The article urges professors to step outside the classroom and share their expertise and research with a wider community. A faculty interview can not only enhance an individual's reputation, it also facilitates exposure for the school and for that individual's research. Mr. Munger encourages faculty to consider interviews because there is no cheaper or more effective way for an institution, an academic, and their research, to have an impact. While maintaining blogs, websites, Facebook pages or Twitter updates can certainly be effective ways to maintain awareness for one's work and school, interviews for local and national media outlets reach diverse audiences that often are not active online or would not have a reason to have a relationship with a professor or a school otherwise. Research that would otherwise remain in relative obscurity can be shared widely, and in many cases is valuable information that the general public should understand and learn from.

As academics look to find ways to ensure job stability, attain tenure track and/or gain wider recognition for their work, it is certainly worth considering getting involved more with media relations. A great way to start is to contact the public relations department at your university. Often these administrators are looking for interesting work that their faculty are involved in, and will help connect you with the appropriate media and train you to answer questions and speak to the press appropriately. Check out the Chronicle article as well for more tips on how to get started, and to see good media relations in action, take a look at Paul Muldoon's appearance on the Colbert Report as well!