Specific protocol will vary based on the type of conference. Most commonly, expect to raise your hand and wait for the speaker or a supporting organizer acknowledge that you have a question.
Even if you strongly disagree with the speaker, or have been offended by their perspectives or behavior, rudeness on your part will all but guarantee that your question will not be taken seriously.
For example, quickly state, “Hello [name of speaker], [your name] with [affiliation]. If you are not a journalist, briefly state the reason you are in attendance. For instance, say something like “Hello [speaker’s name], my name is _____, and I’m here today because _______. ”
Ask two questions maximum, and only when one is extremely specific and can be answered simply. For instance, you could ask a quick yes-or-no type question and then another that would require the speaker to elaborate.
Your own organization’s coverage is a great place to get up to date, as is talking to any co-workers that have been involved in coverage of related topics, or those who may be familiar with the speaker in particular. Research both the topic, and the expected speaker in particular.
Ideally, shoot for a spot near where the speaker is sitting, or in the middle of the front row. If you are able to speak with a conference organizer, request the opportunity to speak with the speaker privately after the conference right off the bat. They may be planning to allow a few journalists a bit more nuanced perspective of a situation, and coming first to the table increases the chances you’ll get dessert.
Good notes will allow you to cite a speaker’s own words to them. For instance, you can later begin a question with “Earlier, you stated that _________, could you expand on that further or tell us explicitly what you meant be that?”
For instance, if you’re aware of a certain facet of the topic that you know should be addressed and is not, structure a question accordingly. You know there’s a reason it wasn’t brought up.
You can even apply a bit of pressure to earn a private audience by implying or telling the speaker you know something that not everyone does, and you wish to discuss it discretely. While this may backfire and risk coming off as brash, it may also intrigue a speaker enough to hear your question.
Don’t ask a question you know the speaker will be unwilling or unable to answer. While this is a stunt often featured in video entertainment and perpetuated by activists, it’s a sure way to stop being allowed into press conferences.
For instance, ask for a quick clarification of a statement that was less clear when the speaker initially made it, allowing them to revisit something they prepared to speak on while reframing it in a way that may lead to additional information. Similarily, open-ended questions will allow the speaker to expand on something they may have forgoten to mention. Consider by starting with something like. “How do you feel about _____. ” Open-ended questions will essentially allow a speaker to say whatever they want, which they will appreciate - as long as you don’t ask them too often.
A good benchmark for deciding whether a question is appropriate to ask during a news conference is whether it will be of interest to a good amount of people in the room. In situations where you’re intentionally putting the speaker on the spot, understand that your question may not be answered, and you may simply be reducing the chances they or other speakers will call on you again in the future.
When considering a potential question, make sure your phrasing either conveys a desire for a statement to be clarified, or for new information. This will ensure clarity and straightforwardness while diminishing unnecessary clauses or commentary.
