Ep. 60 — Let’s Get Ready for an Exhibit Opening
In this episode, Amy takes listeners "into the trenches" to share her step-by-step process for managing successful exhibit openings during busy seasons. She discusses the logistical "mayhem" of back-to-back launches and provides a practical checklist to ensure that museum exhibits receive the public and media attention they deserve.
Key Takeaways:
Mastering the Calendar: Utilize time blocking on your calendar to maintain focus and prevent feeling stuck. Avoid Monday meetings to allow for planning and move them to Tuesdays when staff are statistically better prepared to participate and more likely to attend.
The Communications Plan as a "North Star": Create a written plan that keeps the entire team aligned.
Streamlining Media Assets: Build an electronic press kit to provide journalists with easy access to all of your materials without clogging their inboxes.
Prepare your Spokespeople for the Spotlight: Media training for directors and curators is extremely valuable before they meet with the press. Use it to address feared questions and practice the "pivot technique."
Measuring and Reporting Impact: After the opening, track media coverage to create a comprehensive media report. This report is a vital tool for demonstrating the exhibit's reach to potential donors and serves as a permanent record for the museum's archives.
