Everyone wants media attention. But when you finally land the media interview (whether online or in person), it’s important to understand how to make the most out of it – not just for you but for the journalist too.
Pre-interview
Even seasoned experts plan and prepare for their media interviews. With the right preparation and approach, you can transform nerves into an opportunity to confidently share your message and leave a lasting impression.
- Know your audience: Find out more about the media that wants to interview you. Are you speaking to industry peers, a general audience, or a specific demographic? Tailoring your language and examples to their interests is key to connecting.
- Be a news detective: Once you get the request, find out more about the topic that the journalist wants to cover and find out more about the journalist as well. Research the topic and see what the current trends are, and find out what kind of interviews and stories the journalists write about. Prepare clear, concise answers, even for the potentially tough ones. If you have an agency, they would probably do that and create a media brief for you.
- Craft your soundbites: Develop 2-3 key messages you want to hammer home. Practice weaving them into your answers naturally, without sounding scripted.
- Practice makes perfect: Rehearse your answers aloud, alone or with a friend. This refines your responses, manages time, and boosts your confidence.
- Dress for the camera (if applicable): Choose professional attire with a clutter-free, well-lit background. If using visuals, ensure they’re clear, relevant, and easy to understand.
The interview
- Breathe and be you: Take deep breaths, radiate confidence, and avoid filler words. Let your genuine passion and personality shine through.
- Keep it clear and concise: Aim for simple explanations that resonate with a general audience. Avoid jargon unless you can explain it in layman’s terms.
- Listen actively, and answer directly: Don’t ramble or go off on tangents. Focus on the question and provide a clear, concise response addressing the question. Remember to bridge (this is a key technique for spokespersons) your responses.
- Stay positive and mindful of time: Focus on solutions and positive aspects. Respect the time limit and avoid long-winded answers.
- End with a bang: Summarize your key points. Leave a lasting impression with a confident closing statement.
Remember, preparation is power. By following these tips and tailoring them to your specific interview, you’ll be well on your way to media interview mastery. So go out there, share your expertise with the world, and remember, journalists love confidence.
Don’t be afraid to show your human side! A touch of humour or a relatable anecdote can make your message even more impactful.
Now go forth and conquer your next media interview!
