How to Prepare for a Media Interview
Interviews with television, Internet or print media are a great way to promote a company's product, service or successes. If your company is large enough, you may have someone on staff who is well-versed in how to deal with the media; however, there may be times when you are called upon to take on this important responsibility.
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Things You'll Need
- Professional appearance appropriate to your company's image
- Notes on what you would like to cover in the interview
Instructions
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Watch, read or otherwise research the journalist and/or media outlet who will be conducting the interview. Make notes about the reporter's style, attitude, audience and previous stories. Based upon what you discover, try to anticipate how the reporter might approach your interview.
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Meet with someone in your company's marketing department or someone who has a pulse on the current issues surrounding your company or the product or service you are speaking about. Gather information that might be helpful to refute negative claims or that might reinforce a positive image.
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3
Establish and memorize two to five talking points that you want the audience to come away with. You will need to have a thorough understanding of these points, and you should ensure you are aware of any potential surprises the reporter may have discovered.
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Discuss your interview with the reporter. Prior to an interview, you may have the opportunity to speak with the reporter and go over background information. It is important to use this time wisely to anticipate what you might be asked, and you may be able to influence the reporter's questions.
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Practice your interview with a colleague or consultant. If the interview will be on audio or video tape, put a camera in the room so you can be comfortable with it and won't be caught off guard.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep your answers short and simple. You don't want to be answering only "yes" or "no," but you also don't want to drone on and on about a complicated subject that viewers or readers will not understand. Confidence is key to a successful interview. The audience or the reporter will sense any hesitation, so remember that you are the expert. It's why you were chosen for the interview in the first place. Speak in a manner that is appropriate for the viewers or readers. Do not use technical or professional jargon that may be confusing or patronizing.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit US National Park Service
