News interview tips

Here are some news interview tips to help you prepare and increase your chances of getting a good story:

Before the Interview

  1. Research the journalist and the publication: Understand their style, tone, and audience to tailor your message accordingly.
  2. Review the topic: Familiarize yourself with the subject matter and be prepared to provide insightful comments.
  3. Prepare key messages: Identify the main points you want to convey and practice articulating them clearly.
  4. Anticipate questions: Think about potential questions the journalist may ask and prepare thoughtful responses.
  5. Confirm the interview details: Verify the date, time, location, and duration of the interview.

During the Interview

  1. Be punctual: Arrive on time or a few minutes early to show respect for the journalist's time.
  2. Be prepared to talk: Be ready to provide detailed answers to questions, and avoid saying "no comment" or "I don't know."
  3. Listen actively: Pay attention to the journalist's questions and respond thoughtfully.
  4. Be concise: Keep your answers brief and to the point, avoiding unnecessary details.
  5. Stay calm and composed: Manage your nerves and maintain a professional demeanor.

After the Interview

  1. Send a thank-you note: Express gratitude to the journalist for their time and consideration.
  2. Verify the interview: Confirm that the interview was recorded or transcribed correctly.
  3. Follow up: If you haven't received a response or seen the story published, politely inquire about the status.

Additional Tips

  1. Be honest and transparent: Provide accurate information and be truthful in your responses.
  2. Avoid jargon and technical terms: Use simple language to ensure your message is understood by a broad audience.
  3. Show enthusiasm and passion: Demonstrate your expertise and passion for the topic to make your comments more engaging.
  4. Be prepared for tough questions: Anticipate challenging questions and have thoughtful responses ready.
  5. Practice, practice, practice: Rehearse your responses to common questions to feel more confident and prepared.

By following these news interview tips, you can increase your chances of getting a good story and maintaining a positive relationship with the journalist and their publication.