Media interviews are a great opportunity to showcase your brand, product, service, or even yourself. But the key is: you need to be prepared.
When talking to the media, it's your moment to shine — so stay engaged, be ready to answer questions, and weave in your key messages. Knowing what to do — and what not to do — can make all the difference. We've assembled 22 media interview tips for your next conversation with an interviewer.
Keep it simple! According to National Assessment of Adult Literacy (NAAL), the average adult in the U.S. reads at about an 8th to 9th grade level. Using complex language means you risk losing your audience. Speak clearly and make your message accessible to everyone.
Stick to the facts. Facts are credible and build trust, while speculation can lead to misunderstandings. If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to say so, or pivot to what you do know.
Saying “no comment” can seem suspicious and leave a negative impression. Always be honest. If you don’t have the information, say so in a direct way.
Assume everything you say is on the record, just to be safe. Even if a reporter agrees to be off record, they could violate your trust or simply make a mistake with what they reveal. If you’ve accidentally shared something you shouldn’t have, ask for discretion directly and honestly.
The best way to avoid this situation? Plan what to say ahead of time and stick to it.
It's never a good look to criticize. If a reporter asks a question that isn’t on topic or doesn’t apply, gently steer the conversation back on course. Use it as a chance to educate and share your perspective. For example, “That’s an interesting perspective, but what's really important here is…”
Keep things engaging! Use tone fluctuation, and share stories and examples. Make your talking points memorable and compelling. At the same time, you want to stay on point and avoid rambling or overly lengthy responses.
If a negative question comes your way, flip it into a positive. Redirect and focus on your key message. Stay upbeat and confident!
Preparation is everything. Research, practice your points, and anticipate possible questions. The more prepared you are, the more natural you’ll sound.
A reporter is a reporter is a reporter, even if you’re having a casual conversation over lunch. Stay professional and mindful of what you share and the impression you give. Remember that nothing is ever off the record.
Pointing fingers isn’t productive. Instead, use your interview as an opportunity to tell your side of the story with facts and clarity. Own your narrative.
Journalists need to maintain impartiality. Asking to review the article prior to print could seem like you're trying to influence their work. If accuracy is a concern, politely request to check your quotes or have them read back to you.
Remember, media coverage is not a paid ad — it's independent reporting.
Start with confidence and a smile. The first few moments of the interview set the tone for the rest of the conversation. Arrive early. Greet the interviewer like a friend, and establish a positive atmosphere right from the beginning.
Know your key points inside and out. Home in on these core points to ensure your main ideas come across clearly. If a question takes you off track, steer it back to your key messages.
Speak from the heart. Authenticity builds trust and credibility with the reporter and audience. Keep your responses genuine, and don’t be afraid to show your personality.
Pay close attention to the questions they ask. Active listening helps you provide thoughtful and relevant answers. It also shows respect for the person conducting the interview and their process.
Understand who the audience is and what they value. Adjust your language and examples to speak directly to them. The more relevant your message is to the audience, the more effective it will be.
Paint a picture with your words. Opt for descriptive language to help the audience visualize your message better. This makes your points more vivid and engaging, helping them stick in the audience's mind.
Even if the interview takes a challenging turn, keep your tone upbeat and positive. Focus on the positives of your story and avoid getting defensive. Positivity is infectious and leaves a lasting impression. (Of course, this is based on subject matter — it may not apply in crisis-response interviews which need to hold a more serious tone.)
Be ready to showcase your knowledge and experience. Offer insights and perspectives only you can provide. This can position you as a valuable resource and help you build credibility.
If the interview becomes challenging or stressful, take a deep breath and stay composed. Answering tough questions calmly shows that you are composed and professional, which helps to build trust.
Try to establish a connection with the reporter. A bit of small talk before the interview can go a long way to make the conversation more relaxed and friendly. Remember, interviews are not just about information — they’re about relationships.
Send a thank-you note or email to the reporter after the interview. This small act can show that you value their time and effort. It can also keep the door open for future opportunities.
Getting ready for a media interview can seem challenging. But with the right strategies and approaches, you can make every chance a success.
Looking for tips or help to improve your confidence and communication skills? Check out our True PR services page. We're here to help you navigate every media interaction with ease and professionalism.
Don’t just show up for your next media interview — shine in it. Explore our services today to start making every interview count!
