Small speakers of large organizations.

     I remember one day a scandal broke out in the Ministry of Agriculture. Someone from the staff blurted out something to the journalists. This information was spread by all newspapers and TV channels. The minister had to take the rap, and then decide how to prevent such cases in the future. Someone suggested categorically prohibit all employees from all kinds of contacts with the press, any messages should be given only through the press service. But the minister chose a different path. He said, “Instead of watching the mouths of employees, it is better to work with their brains.” He gathered the heads of the departments for meetings, meticulously discussed each question with them and explained to them the policy of the ministry. After that, he demanded that the heads of the departments convey information to their subordinates. After that, he issued a circular, according to which any employee of the ministry was allowed to say anything in the press, but within his competence. That is, if you are a livestock breeder, then you may say everything you know about livestock farming, and the ministry will do it so that you know everything about your business. But do not touch plant growing. If you are a manager, talk about cleaning the premises and supplying the office with paper. No one understands this better than, but don’t touch agriculture.

     Since then, it has been like that. Each employee knew his business and spoke publicly only about what he was responsible for and what he understands. Each one was a small speaker of the ministry in his question.

     It seems to me that such a model of communication with the press should be used in all state bodies.