From Nervous to Noteworthy

Have you ever been interviewed? It can be unnerving even in the best of circumstances, let alone when something goes awry. Here are some tips from a recent media training session we had with an executive at an international company.

Speak in Sound Bites

Journalists are looking for sound bites and easy-to-digest answers. Keep your answers short and concise. Avoid too much industry jargon unless it’s for a trade publication in your field.

Plan Your Talking Points

Although reporters (with the exception of some trades) won’t provide questions in advance, you generally know what the topic at hand will be. Put that topic into AI and have it generate some questions that may be asked. Ask yourself, what would I want to know if I were the reader, listener, or viewer of this interview? Then write your answers with them in mind.

Rehearse Before You Go Live

Practice makes perfect, so rehearse on Zoom with a colleague or, even better, with a camera pointed at you and play it back.

Think Beyond the Interview

Know reporters are under more pressure than ever. Your story will be one of many they’ll do this week, this month, and this year. Be prepared for the interview, and they are likely to bring you in the next time they need a source. Offer to provide additional background and resources. For example, we recently met with a PBS reporter about a feature story they are doing. We were able to help them by providing additional background and names of other possible resources. While you may not get the big interview you hoped for, you may build goodwill, which can be just as valuable.

We provide media training at The Creative Company, Inc., complete with microphones, cameras, a producer, and a former TV news anchor asking the questions. We’ve provided this training for people who may never be interviewed on camera but who are responsible for communicating key messages within their organizations. Media training translates to stronger storytelling, fewer PR risks, and a polished image. Reach out if you’re interested in learning more.