Want to be seen as on top of things with a good handle on the issues? Use our training to simulate a range of evidence giving sessions from Select Committees to Enquiries.
We have worked with senior executives to better understand the process and their role in it: from delivering key messages in a lengthy Q&A session, supplying supporting evidence and showing how to handle a team appearance.
Formats
- One-to-one coaching for the witness giving evidence
- Full mock hearing simulating the committee's style of questioning
- Team preparation for organisations sending more than one witness, so messages stay consistent
- A pre-hearing briefing covering format, procedure and likely tone
What you gain
The ability to answer scrutiny confidently, stay on message under repeated and overlapping questions, and bridge from a difficult question back to the facts that matter — backed by 20 years of broadcast journalism and communications expertise.
Hilary provided very helpful advice and media training. Her professional eye and extensive experience provided many useful tips … and no doubt helped me to avoid too many blunders.
Marcial Boo – Chief Executive, IPSA (Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority)
Frequently asked questions
What is select committee preparation?
Bespoke coaching to prepare a witness or panel of witnesses for a parliamentary select committee or inquiry hearing, covering message development, the format and procedure of the session, and rehearsal through simulated questioning.
How long before the hearing should I start?
As soon as you know you’re giving evidence. Message development and simulated questioning both benefit from time to rehearse and refine, though Jawsmith can also work to a tight timescale ahead of a short-notice hearing.
Is the preparation specific to my organisation and the committee I’m appearing before?
Yes. Every programme is built around your evidence, your organisation’s context and the committee or inquiry you’re appearing in front of, rather than generic media training.
Can Jawsmith run a full mock hearing?
Yes. Mock hearings simulate a range of evidence-giving sessions, from delivering key messages in a lengthy Q&A to handling a team appearance, followed by detailed feedback on message discipline and delivery.
Who has been prepared for select committee appearances through Jawsmith?
Hilary Jeffs has prepared senior executives for select committee and inquiry appearances, including Marcial Boo, Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA).