The_Essential_Manager_s_Handbook

PREPARING FOR MEDIA INTERVIEWS / 315

Being the subject of a news media interview is never easy, and can be

stressful and risky. You might say the wrong thing or forget to say what’s

most important about the subject of the interview, or your comments

might be taken out context when they’re aired. However, by following a

few basic rules, you can limit risk and use the interview to your advantage.

Ask your Public

Affairs or Corporate

Communication office

for help and guidance.

Find out the subject and

background of the story

and ask who else is

participating.

Double-check the

time, date, and location

of the interview.

CHECKLIST...

Succeeding in media interviews YES NO

1 Are you clear about what you hope to achieve

from the interview? .......................................................................... (^)
2 Do you know which items of information you can share,
and which are confidential? .............................................................
3 Have you decided on a method for avoiding arguments
if the reporter goads you? ...............................................................
4 Do you know how to respond to false allegations, without
repeating the phrases the reporter uses? .....................................
5 Are you focused on remaining professional and likable,
no matter what happens in the interview? .....................................
GET YOUR POINT
IN EARLY
A reporter may not ask the
one question you’re most
hoping to talk about. Raise
the issue yourself, get your
points in, and repeat them
frequently. Use the free
air time or print space to
your benefit.
Gather all the information Tip
you will need: make sure
that you have the latest
facts and figures
US_314-315_Preparing_for_media_interviews.indd 315 01/06/16 5:21 pm