The landscape of Indian automotive media has undergone a significant transformation over the years. While this change brings both opportunities and challenges for company executives, it also highlights the evolving nature of media interactions in the industry. This article delves into the nuances of this transformation, providing insights, statistics, and interesting facts that are often overlooked.
For company executives, dealing with the media can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, they are spared from answering probing, potentially embarrassing questions. On the other hand, they often encounter ill-prepared journalists who ask irrelevant or superficial questions.
I recently attended the launch of the Mercedes M- and S-Class in India. The event was a stark contrast to the early days when Mercedes first entered the Indian market. Back then, press conferences featured a "selected media list," but this time, the list had significantly expanded. The company was more open to answering questions, reflecting a broader and more inclusive media strategy.
One memorable moment was when a young journalist from a 24-hour news channel asked, "What is your marketing strategy for the S-Class?" Despite her lack of industry knowledge, her confidence was commendable. However, such questions highlight a broader issue: the media's lack of preparation and understanding of the automotive industry.
The rise of 24-hour news channels has added another layer of complexity to media interactions. According to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), there are over 900 registered television channels in India, with a significant number dedicated to news source. This proliferation makes it challenging for PR firms to manage media coverage effectively.
With so many news channels, the quality of journalism has often taken a hit. Questions like "What was your turnover last year?" or "What is the power output of the engine?" are common, reflecting a lack of basic research. This trend is concerning for industry insiders who value informed and insightful journalism.
The Indian automotive media landscape is a mixed bag, offering both opportunities and challenges for company executives. While the proliferation of 24-hour news channels has democratized media access, it has also led to a decline in the quality of journalism. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for both media professionals and company executives to adapt to these changes, ensuring that the quality of information remains high.
For more insights into the Indian automotive media, visit The Auto Diary.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving Indian automotive media landscape, highlighting key statistics and interesting facts. It underscores the need for better-prepared journalists and more strategic media interactions.
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