Is “Off-the-Record” Really Just Between the Reporter and the Source?

Talking with clients about going “off-the-record” with a reporter always prompts a lively discussion.

As part of Rockford Gray’s media training, we discuss distinctions between the various permutations of going off-the-record. Along with off-the-record, there is off-the-record embargoed, without attribution, and options to speak on-background or on-the-record with a reporter.

It gets confusing.

To keep it simple, we explain there isn’t a single, generally accepted definition for the blanket term “off-the-record”. Different reporters and media outlets have different understandings.

In media training, Rockford Gray’s media experts give an overview based on our own experience as reporters, and then counsel clients to primarily stick to sharing information on-the-record. We say that information shared on-background is fair game and may be included in the reporter’s story. And when sharing information off-the-record there is always the chance a piece of that information will end up in the story.

There really is such a thing as off-the-record, but the decision to share that information should first be discussed internally, at a high-level, with strategy and forethought. Don’t go off-the-record on the fly. Think of off-the-record as an agreement you make with a reporter. It’s not a stamp you figuratively slap onto bits of information.

The Poynter Institute – a leader in journalism practices – explains it this way, “A source should ask a reporter first if something can be off the record. Then the reporter can agree or refuse. The source then can decide whether they want to share that information.”

This is not a game of gotcha. There are good reasons the media prefer information on-the-record and avoid anonymous sources. Transparency is critical to credibility.

The Associated Press (AP) says that whenever possible its reporters pursue information on the record. The New York Times explains that “many readers are skeptical about the credibility and motivation of unnamed sources; some even question whether the sources exist.”

Bottom line: Stick to what you are comfortable saying on-the-record. And if you don’t want a reporter using your quote in their story, then don’t say it.

For more tips on talking to the media and protecting your organization’s reputation, email us at [email protected].