The queen: a living lesson in privacy management

Instead, the present monarch has walked largely in step with changes in media technologies during her reign – or, at most, no more than a step behind.

She agreed that her Coronation in 1953 should be televised, so that as many people as possible could share it. The events was viewed by an estimated 27 million people in Britain, with 11 million more listening on radio. The population of Britain at the time was just over 36 million.

For someone in her position, the Queen has been unusually accessible to media outlets. Her first Christmas radio address was broadcast in 1952. Her first televised Christmas speech came in 1957.

That was the year of my birth and from that time on, these addresses, though sometimes a little stiff in their presentation, were a staple part of my childhood Christmases in Australia. As they were for millions of others living in Commonwealth countries.

This December 25, my first grandchild will likely also hear the Queen speak to what she considers to be her family of nations.

There have been times when media interest in her immediate family has proven intrusive and perhaps, though she is normally too skilfully diplomatic to say so, offensive.

Yet her actions and demeanour suggest that she has accepted the public’s interest in her, albeit on her terms. She has, thankfully, carefully avoided becoming a celebrity in the way that some contemporary monarchs have done.

As a result, her measured accessibility has not destroyed the mystique that seems to be a necessary part of longevity in such a role.

From time to time, Elizabeth II has also granted her warrant for the filming of television specials. She has even embraced new media, via a Facebook site.

Yes, it is run by courtiers and you can’t have a social media conversation with the woman herself, but the principle of engagement is important in itself.

Of all the leaders of the modern world, she has perhaps managed her public appearances the most artfully. She has not revealed too much, yet has allowed her public to feel that they know her at least passably well.

This careful management of her public profile and her fierce protection of private time is a key reason for her continued success.