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If you have ever watched the news and heard the words “briefing” or “press conference,” but felt confused about what they actually mean, you are definitely not alone. At first glance, they may seem very similar. However, there is a clear difference between them, and it is quite easy to understand.

Imagine the following situation. You work in a press office. Your company has just launched a new initiative and wants to be the first to inform journalists. You arrange a briefing. During the event, the speaker shares the key message clearly and briefly. Cameras are rolling, journalists are listening and taking notes. The news is out. The main goal of the event is to give an official position, send out the message, and not waste time.

Now imagine another situation. A scandal involving your organization is spreading on social media. People are upset. There is a lot of emotion and speculation in the public space. To calm things down, explain your position, and answer questions, you decide to organize a press conference.

A press conference is something else. It is not just about speaking. It is about talking with others. Journalists ask their questions, and speakers give full answers. This format takes more time. It also takes more preparation. You need to be honest, even if the topic is not easy.

Both formats help build a connection with the media. But in a briefing, you stay in control. You decide what to say and how to say it. In a press conference, you respond to what others want to know. That is why it is often better to be the first to speak. Because in communication, the first word often becomes the most important one.