Conducting a media interview can feel like you are facing the firing line, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Whether you have a positive story to tell or you are responding to a crisis there are things you can do to ensure a good experience
and a good outcome.
Top FIve Tips for Preparing for a media interview
#1 – Prepare
Think of every question a journalist might ask, especially the questions you
don’t want to answer, then work on how to respond. Practice is the key, but you don’t want to your answers to sound rehearsed so memorise your message not the words.
#2 – Skill Up
If you haven’t undergone media training, an interview seem like being thrown in a pool without learning to swim. Both theory and practical skills are essential in managing an interview effectively. You can’t beat an objective perspective and some good quality training, after all, its your reputation and perception is everything.
#3 – What’s Your Message?
Why are you doing the interview and what are you trying to achieve? Is it to promote yourself or your company, address a misconception or manage an issue or crisis? Whatever it is, message preparation is essential. Work out what you want to say and find the opportunities in the interview to get your message across regardless of the questions being asked.
#4 – Know who you are talking to
And by that I mean the journalist, the media outlet and the audience it is reaching. A journalist would have researched you before the interview, have you researched them and who their viewers/listeners or readers are? Your responses should to be pitched accordingly.
#5 – Prepare for the Worst, Hope for the Best
Find out if the journalist is talking to anyone else for their story. If it’s a contentious issue you need to know the other perspectives and perceptions and any issues that might arise. It is like learning first aid. You hope you never need it but you have the confidence and the skills if you do.
Last of all, try to relax and enjoy the interview – it is likely to be the first of many and each interview is a valuable learning process
Need more help?
Get in touch if you have any questions or would like to discuss media training options for you or your team. Contact Cecelia via email
cecelia@marketingelements.com.au or via mobile 0411 264 948.
