Some of the brightest, most capable people I know freeze with fear when facing a microphone.  Unfortunately, media interviews have a way of paralyzing us when we need to be at our best.

The good news is this: You can give a strong interview if you apply some basic messaging strategies and fundamental interview techniques.  We teach these strategies and techniques in one of our most popular training programs called “Maximizing the Message.”  Here are a few quick tips gleaned from that day of real-world training you can use the next time you get a call from a member of the media.

• Think first. Take a few seconds to really listen to the reporter’s question and understand the topic introduced. With a bit of “think time,” you will have a better chance of knowing which messages you should provide to address the topic at hand.
• Answer the question, and don’t “over answer.” Quit while you are ahead. Many times we get ourselves into trouble because we don’t stop when the question has been satisfied.
• Leave out the negative. Instead focus on the positive messages you can say on a topic.  Address the reporter’s topic, but don’t belabor the potentially awkward thought.
• You are the expert. So, think about how you can share context, knowledge or expertise that will benefit your company, your industry and the reporter’s audience as well.
• Breathe. If you find yourself short of breath, slow down and take a deep breath or two. Help those anxious butterflies “fly in formation” rather than get the best of you.
• It’s a conversation. Especially in television interviews, don’t think about the thousands of viewers who might be watching you.   Focus on having a professional, calm conversation with the reporter.  As a result, you will come across more relaxed and in control.

(For more information about MCG’s “Maximzing the Message” media training program, contact Blake Woolsey at blake@mitchcommgroup.com)

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