How to Prepare For Your First Media Interview
Being invited to undertake a media interview in whichever form it takes is very exciting and it means your media relations strategy is working but quite often people do not prepare in a way that allows them to make an impact with their interview. If you are invited to be interviewed on television, radio, magazines, blogs, podcasts or any other media platform, it is crucial that you are prepared. Many businesses and entrepreneurs seek media profiling as a way to enhance their brand visibility and credibility, so getting a media interview right can really ensure that you build your reputation within your target audience. Before you approach any media outlet make sure that you are prepared. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your first media interview:
Media training - it is definitely worth investing in an expert to media train you before you undertake a media interview, this is particularly important for any video or audio interview but you may find that you need to seek advice on making the most of written interviews too. Do not underestimate the value of getting the right training before you step into the spotlight.
Be ready for the response - Remember that everything you say whether it is written or recorded can make or break your brand particularly in a digital age where interviews can have an even wider reach than ever before, you can go viral for all the right reasons or you could even have a PR crisis. Be ready for any level of exposure - good or bad. Whilst you might not become famous, there is a possibility that you might experience short term fame and so you should learn how to deal with that fame and visibility. Take the time to assess the motives of the media channel that is sharing your story or interview too; some have good intentions but some also see your story as part of their media cycle and you should not take it personally if they do not support you after the interview.
Take a moment to review yourself - if you know that you will be the face of your business or you have become a subject matter expert in your sector then make sure you take the time to review your performance, watch/listen/read - don't bury your head in the sand because it feels embarrassing. If you want to do better then you need to know better, and knowing better means reviewing your progress and undertaking critical analysis and being open to feedback. You should also consider investing in your personal brand and public speaking skills as they can help you when positioning yourself for media interviews. Undertake a personal brand audit and assess your weak areas.
In this video I provide even more tips and guidance on preparing for a media interview.
For more advice and media training get in touch. I have helped clients from a wide range of industries including publishing, creative enterprise and the charity sector.
