How do you feel about facing TV crews, tabloid press or trolls? We all know that public perception can shape the success of a business, but how confident are you that you can handle media interviews smoothly when you’re under spotlight?
Here are our six steps to mastering media interview techniques, based on 25-years of experience within TALA of training senior leaders across many sectors worldwide:
1. Bring your message to life
Communicate your core message clearly and compellingly, and make sure you have facts, figures, examples or case studies to bring the message to life.
2. Understand who you are talking to and how
Are you being interviewed for print, TV, radio or online, and who is going to be watching or reading? You’ll need a different approach for the Financial Times, BBC Radio 4’s Today programme or Sky News, and the audiences will be different.
3. The power of bridging
Make sure you know how to steer any conversation back to your key messages, regardless of the question. Bridging is an invaluable skill for staying on-message in any scenario.
4. Identify question types
A question may seem unusual, but they often fit a template. If you can spot different types of questions, you can prepare strategies to respond effectively, whether the question is straightforward, probing, or designed to challenge.
5. Handle the tough questions
You’ll probably already know what the toughest questions you’ll be asked are, and others that you hopefully won’t. Careful planning for all potential issues in advance will prepare you for anything.
6. Master interview techniques
By practicing different interview formats, press interviews, live broadcasts etc – you’ll build the resilience and skills to navigate tricky or uncomfortable questions with confidence.
Ready to elevate your media skills?
Do you feel comfortable putting these steps into practice? If not yet, TALA’s bespoke Media Navigator media training course is designed specifically to equip spokespeople with the skills, confidence, and strategies needed to handle media interviews effectively.
Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned spokesperson looking to refine your approach, Media Navigator offers hands-on training that prepares you to excel in any interview scenario.