While planning your news conference, write down the goals you need to accomplish. For example, are you calling a news conference to refute criticism by one of your competitors? Are you trying to rally public support for an unpopular project your organization is spearheading? Are you calling it to set the record straight after someone besmirched the reputation of one of your key people?

Keep your goals in sight, and plan accordingly. You might not have a lot of time to stage a well-orchestrated news conference, and you want to make sure the precious time you do have is spent wisely. The ideal length of time for a news conference is anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes.

For even more things to contemplate and consider before holding a press conference, check out The News Conference: When to Hold It and How to Do It Right.