How to Rock in Media Interviews

Posted by admin in Effective public relations, Introduction to public relations, Public relations strategiesApr 30th, 2010 | no responses

One thing that can cast your business in a poor light is to have a disastrous appearance in the media. With the ability to post embarrassing moments online, it is possible that your poor media interview could quickly be seen by people across the country.

The good news is, it is possible to learn how to rock in media interviews, and it is an easy thing to learn. All it takes is some preparation, and anticipating what is going to happen before the interview begins. Unless you are the subject of an investigation, your interviewer really wants you to do well with the interview. Assuming that this is a scheduled interview, and the tone is not hostile, you can take steps to make sure that it is a positive public relations opportunity.

The first step in figuring out how to rock in media interviews is in knowing what message you want to get across. You need to have a few sound bites ready that puts your business in a positive light. These blurbs should be several seconds long, but contain the information you want the public to know about you and your business. Have your sound bites prioritized so you can make sure to work in the ones you really want people to hear.

Before the interview begins you should take the time to introduce yourself to the interviewer. If you are unsure of the pronunciation of their name you can make sure you get it right before you go on the air. You can also make sure they have the pronunciation of your name as well.

If you get the chance you should also talk with the interviewer about the questions that will be asked during the interview. If they are willing to share the questions with you, you will have a little time to be prepared before the questions get asked. This is also an opportunity to get a feel for the tone of the interview.

Once interview begins you should try to come off as relaxed and confident. If it is appropriate, smile. This is true whether the interview is for radio or television. Research has shown that a smile will come through in your tone of voice even if the person that hears you cannot see you.

If the interview is on television, make sure that you keep an open body posture. Crossing your arms in front of you can make you appear hard to approach, whole standing with your hands in your pockets can make you appear nervous and unsure of yourself.

Try to avoid using verbal pauses while you speak. Saying “ummm” or “you know” can be distracting to your audience, and can be a put off for your customers. Practice speaking clearly and confidently. Speak loud enough that you are plainly heard, and be sure to enunciate your words.

When you are in the interview, make sure that you get you most important messages in early. If there is time, you can work in the other points, but you need to make sure you hit the important points.

When your interview is completed, be sure to say thank you to the interviewer. Do this regardless of the tone of the interview.

Learning how to rock in media interviews can be a great way to get the word out about your business. When you have a reputation of doing well in interviews, more opportunities may resent themselves in the future. Take advantage of this free publicity to spread the benefits of your business.

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