Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. For those working in media relations or organizing events during this time, it’s essential to approach the month with cultural sensitivity and respect. Whether you’re pitching to journalists, hosting events, or engaging with Muslim colleagues, understanding Ramadan etiquette can make a significant difference. Here’s a guide to navigating media relations during Ramadan while being mindful of the values and traditions associated with this holy month.
Media Relations During Ramadan: Best Practices
When working with journalists or media professionals during Ramadan, it’s crucial to be mindful of their schedules and energy levels. Here are some actionable tips:
- Timing is Key: As an Arabic journalist highlighted to us, the best time to approach fasting journalists is typically between 10 am and 12 midday. This is when they are likely to be most alert and productive. Avoid scheduling calls, interviews, or events during late afternoon hours when energy levels may dip due to fasting.
- Respect Ramadan Timings for Events: If you’re organizing an event, aim to schedule it after 8 pm, rather than Iftar. This allows attendees to break their fast and participate comfortably. Whether it’s a press conference, interview, or social gathering, timing your event post-Iftar shows consideration for those observing Ramadan.
- Craft Clear and Concise Pitches: Journalists are often juggling multiple responsibilities during Ramadan, so make your pitches as clear and actionable as possible. Use a descriptive subject line in your emails and get straight to the point. Avoid lengthy emails or unnecessary follow-ups during this time.
- Offer Flexibility: Understand that productivity and availability may vary during Ramadan. Be flexible with deadlines and response times, and avoid pressuring journalists or colleagues who may be balancing work with spiritual commitments.
Leveraging Iftar and Suhoor to Strengthen Media Relations
Ramadan presents a unique opportunity to strengthen media relationships, particularly with Arabic media. Iftar and Suhoor gatherings are not just about sharing a meal; they are powerful opportunities to build and strengthen relationships, particularly with Arabic media. These moments of breaking the fast together foster a sense of camaraderie and trust, which can translate into stronger professional connections.
- Personalize Your Invitations: As always, reach out to journalists and media professionals with personalized invitations to Iftar or Suhoor events. Highlight the significance of their presence and how much you value their partnership.
- Reflect the values: As another Muslim journalist pointed out, ensure the event is warm, inclusive, and reflective of Ramadan’s values. This will leave a lasting impression and show that you genuinely care about their well-being and cultural practices.
- Use the Time to Network Thoughtfully: While Iftar and Suhoor are not the time for hard pitches, they are perfect for casual conversations and relationship-building. Use this time to listen, learn, and understand the needs and interests of your media contacts.
- Follow Up After the Event: A thoughtful follow-up after the event, thanking attendees for their presence, can further solidify the relationship. It’s a simple yet effective way to show appreciation and maintain the connection beyond Ramadan.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, community, and heightened spirituality. By approaching media relations and event planning with sensitivity and respect, you can build stronger relationships and foster goodwill. Whether you’re pitching a story, hosting an Iftar, or simply engaging with Muslim colleagues, small gestures of consideration can go a long way.
As we navigate this holy month, let’s remember the values of empathy, respect, and inclusivity that Ramadan embodies. By doing so, we not only honour the traditions of our Muslim peers but also create a more thoughtful and connected professional environment.
We are grateful to Sammer Batter and Sal Jafar for their input to this blog.
