Media interviews are an excellent opportunity to share your message with a broad audience. However, they can also be nerve-wracking if you’re unprepared. Drawing from years of experience as a journalist, I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the awkward when it comes to interviews. Here’s how you can ensure you make the most of your time in front of the camera or microphone.

🎤 Understand the Interview’s Purpose

Before the interview, clarify why you’re being interviewed. Ask the journalist or producer about:

• The story angle or topic.

• The type of questions you might be asked.

• The format (live or pre-recorded, in-studio, or remote).

• The expected length of the interview.

Note: journalists will not usually provide exact questions in advance. THIS IS NORMAL. Show them you're a pro by avoiding this question. Wonder why? Read this blog.

Knowing these details will help you tailor your responses to fit the narrative and avoid being caught off guard.

🎤 Know Your Key Messages

Journalists will often ask open-ended questions, which means it’s up to you to ensure your key messages come through. Develop 2-3 main points you want the audience to remember, and practice weaving them into your answers naturally.

Example: If you’re discussing a new product, your key message might be its unique benefits, its impact on customers, or the story behind its development.

🎤 Anticipate Tough Questions

Journalists aren’t just there to lob softballs—they may ask challenging questions. Consider:

• What controversies or criticisms could arise?

• What gaps or vulnerabilities might they highlight?

• What details might they want that you aren’t ready to share?

Prepare answers that acknowledge tough questions without becoming defensive. If you don’t know an answer, it’s better to admit it and offer to follow up later than to speculate.

🎤 Practice Concise, Clear Responses

The average TV or radio soundbite is under 10 seconds. Avoid rambling or overloading your answers with details. Instead, focus on delivering clear, concise statements. Use this simple structure:

• Answer the question.

• Share a supporting fact or example.

• Pivot to your key message.

🎤 Control the Narrative

It’s not uncommon for journalists to veer off-topic. If this happens, gently steer the conversation back by bridging to your key points. Use phrases like:

• “That’s a good question, and it ties into…”

• “What’s really important here is…”

• “I can’t speak to that specifically, but what I can share is…”

This technique keeps you on track while respecting the journalist’s process.

🎤 Dress Appropriately

Your appearance speaks before you do. Wear solid, neutral colors that look professional on camera. Avoid busy patterns, excessive jewelry, or anything too reflective. How many times have you seen someone on TV and thought "what is she wearing?" or "wow, I love that necklace!" Do you remember what the interview subject was saying at that moment? Probably not, because your mind was distracted by the outfit or jewelry. Keep distractions to a minimum to ensure your message is conveyed.

If the interview is remote, ensure your background is clean and uncluttered. Please, turn off the blurred background. It makes you look bad.

🎤 Be Aware of Non-Verbal Cues

Body language matters. Maintain good posture, make eye contact (or look into the camera for virtual interviews), and avoid fidgeting. Smiling naturally helps convey confidence and approachability.

🎤 Prepare for Technical Challenges

For virtual interviews, test your equipment beforehand. Seriously. You'd be surprised at how many times someone missed a live interview because they hadn't installed zoom on their new computer. Live TV can't wait for you to install or update. Do it beforehand.

Ensure:

• Your internet connection is stable.

• Your camera and microphone are working.

• Your lighting is adequate (natural light or a ring light works well).

Have a backup plan in case technical difficulties arise.

🎤 Be Honest and Authentic

Audiences connect with sincerity. Speak in your natural voice and avoid jargon or corporate-speak. If you’re passionate about the topic, let that enthusiasm shine through—it’s contagious.

🎤 Follow Up After the Interview

Once the interview is complete, send a quick thank-you note to the journalist or producer. Express gratitude for the opportunity and offer to clarify any details or provide additional information if needed. Building a good relationship ensures they’ll think of you for future stories.

🎥 🗞️ 🎙️

A media interview is your chance to be the voice of your brand or organization. With preparation and practice, you can navigate the conversation confidently and leave a lasting impression. 

If you need more help with media training or interview prep, Scot Media Tulsa offers expert coaching tailored to your needs. Reach out to learn more!

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