Media Interview Tips

Congratulations, you’re going to be interviewed! This is exciting but probably a bit nerve-racking for you. Here are some points to remember in all interviews:

1. The reporter or writer may want to speak to you soon but you may already have made an appointment when he/she wants to speak with you. Now, here is something I can’t emphasize too strongly: unless your previous commitment is one you just can’t change, try to be flexible and work around the reporter’s schedule. Otherwise he/she might just decide you aren’t worth the trouble.

2. Say what you would like quoted. Jokes, sarcastic remarks and off-the-record comments are no-nos. Your comments might be taken at face value – and printed as fact.

3. Be polite – even if you’ve been kept waiting, or are troubled by some of the questions.

4. Never disparage anyone, especially your competition (you’ll always get more respect when you take the high road).

5. If you don’t know the answer, say that you don’t, but that you’ll get it to the reporter after the interview.

6. Never say “no comment;” this is a red flag to the media. Instead you can say “we are currently looking into that matter and we’ll let you know more when we are ready to release that information”.

7. Don’t use acronyms or industry jargon that you’re familiar with – but others may not be.

8. Use analogies, stories and “quick bite” answers when possible.

9. Use quick, interesting statistics or facts to make key points (example: according to a recent study, 95% of Americans would benefit from at least one dental veneer).

10. After all of your interviews, thank the reporter and ask when the story will appear. When it does, make sure to send a hand-written thank-you note. Most people don’t, so you will be remembered favorably the next time a publicity opportunity comes along.

Media Interview Tips - To learn more about this author, visit Margie Fisher's Website.

Like this article? Share it with your friends

E-Mail | Print | More

Related Articles
“A Positive Look at Media Interviews and A Prescription for Successful Media Interviews”
	As you read the headline, I can almost hear some of you asking, “How can there be anything positive about media interviews? I would rather go for a painful visit to my dentist than participate in a media i...
“Media Tips From Your PR Doctor For Effective Electronic Media Interviews”
	Have you ever been interviewed by the electronic media. Have you ever declined an interview because you felt totally fearful and uneasy on TV or radio? Have you been interviewed and then wished you would have had ...
Ten Survival Strategy Tips For Hostile or Sensitive Interviews From Your Strategic Thinking Business Coach
	Have you ever been interviewed by the media in a hostile or sensitive situation? Did you feel prepared to handle that interview? Do you ever notice or even pay attention to how many times people are embarrassed or...
UTILIZING YOUR MEDIA to Land More Business
	If you use it correctly, media begets media.
The importance of having a media policy
	A media policy is essential to maximising all media opportunities – for any type of business, even if you are working from home. The following is an example of a media policy which you can use for your business. It ...

---

Related Forum Posts
	Business Tips
	Invitation to Demand Media/Vator.tv Challenge
	First Four Words
	Social Media Marketing - Corporate Vs. Small Business
	Interview with Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook)
	The Game Inventor's Guidebook
	Entrepreneurs to profile
	Paying for downloaded music can suck