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Lifesaving
Tips for a Media Interview*
by Patrick J. Donadio, MBA, CSP, MCC
If you get called to do
an interview with the media, here are a few tips that might come in handy:
1.
Do Your Homework. They Will! - Know your facts. Stay up on
current events. Anticipate questions and prepare answers. Know ahead of
time one or two major points you want to stress and get to them out as
soon as possible.
2.
Be Concise - Keep answers short and to the point. You stand a
better chance of being quoted correctly.
3.
Be a Good Listener - Listen carefully to each question.
4.
Do Not Be Evasive - If you don't know the answer say so and offer
to find out. Avoid bluffing and the “NO COMMENT” answer. If you can't
release the information, tell them and explain why.
5.
Stay Calm - Be friendly even when the interviewer isn't. Avoid an
argument at all costs. If need be, pause and take a few deep breaths
before continuing the interview.
6.
You're in Charge - Set your own pace. If the interviewer
interrupts before you finish answering a question, pause, listen and then
continue to answer the initial question. Don't be afraid to challenge
uncertain facts or sources of information. If a reporter calls and you
need time to gather the information, say you'll call right back.
Remember, You're in Charge!
7.
Avoid Off the Record Comments. From hello, the reporter is
working. Anything you say is fair game.
8.
Keep it Simple - Avoid jargon, lingo, and abbreviations. Use
language the public will understand.
9.
Don't Fill the Gaps - When you're done answering a question, stop
talking! You have no obligation to keep the interview going. If the
reporter has further questions he/she will ask.
10.
Dress Appropriately - Dress in a way that makes you feel
confident. If on television, dress as well as the interviewer.
* © Patrick J. Donadio, MBA, CSP, MCC is a
Certified Speaking Professional and Master Certified Coach specializing
Leadership and Business Communications. Call or e-mail Patrick for
permission to use this article. Call toll free: 1-877-DONADIO or e-mail
Patrick@PatrickDonadio.com. |