How do you handle media interview?
This is a problem that quite many a CEO or a speaker for a firm has. Addressing this well is the golden key to obtain a lot of positive hype for the brand or league. At Catalyst, we’ve a great deal of experience in aiding our clients address them well and presented below are some great tips to navigate through.
Do your research well
Firstly, try to read blogs that they’ve authored, If you’re to meet a specific journalist or newsmen. This will help you create a positive connect and play as a good ice- breaker too. similarly, stay abreast of the current trends and issues in your sector as you might have to ask questions on them.
Project thought leadership
Project yourself as a leader in the sector; you must bring on this image by being well-informed about the varied aspects of your diligence and staying in touch with current affairs. You must possess fresh and engaging bites of information to share. This is what would make your interview information-rich and valuable. Journalists just love figures! Include more figures about your sector or your company such as demand, supply, number of stakeholders, revenue, return, no of workers and so on.
What happens if things take a unexpected turn?
Sometimes the interview may not go along the course that you had expected. You may have worked out the answers to specific questions and chose the kind of information that you want to share. nevertheless, a correspondent could fully change the course of things and you might find yourself caught off-guard. What do you do? Don’t abruptly try to change the subject. Add connecting lines like, “ I suppose the critical issue really is … …” or “ What I feel is really important is … ….”
Keep the space looking good
Mostly photos and videos will be shot at your venue. Make sure your place is maintained neat and clean. Add a touch of newness with a bunch of flowers if it suits the spot you’re at.
Understand the media
Every media has its own tone and inclinations. Try to figure out how much ever you could aboutthis.However, ask for questions in advance so that you could be ready, If possible. Other useful information that you could collect in advance is about the approximate duration of the interview and theaudience.However, you could learn what you’re supposed to wear, who’ll do your makeup, If the interview is to be televised.
Provide a backgrounder
Keep things easy for the reporter. Even before the interview provide facts related to your brand/ service and your company besides clips of previous media coverage. This will aid the journalist gain an overview of your brand/ company and doesn’t require to begin with basics.
Learn to relax
When you’re asked a question, concentrate on it and answer but keep your body language comfortable and casual. Be assured that you’re seated comfortably. Don’t ever cross your arms or take on any other defensive poise. Express yourself with a smile at the start.
You ’re always on the record
Always stay mindful of what you say. A journalist might show up to be done with the interview but continues to talk without notes or the camera keeps rolling, but whatever you utter can be utilized. Don’t ever say anything bad about your company, sedulity, rivals or the government. This could backfire on you and affect your venture in future. Instead stay good and positive. You could form suggestions on how specific things could be bettered.
Keep in mind these easy tips and get into a media interview cool and confident!