Media Interviews: Tips to ensure your message is being delivered

Here is the scenario:
Your phone rings and it is the local newspaper looking for more information on a new product just launched by your company. 20 minutes later after you have hung up the phone you realize you forgot to mention the name of the new product and (gasp) forgot the name of the newspaper that called you. Whoops.

Preparing for your interview can take very little time, but those 30 seconds of preparation will make the difference in the delivery of your key message to the media.

How do you prepare for a media interview?
Here are a few tips and tricks from a Media Coach.

1) Who are you talking to?
Before starting an interview, be sure to get the name of the interviewer and who they are working for. If the person is calling from another city, get their location. Write down the information and keep it in front of you so you don't accidentally thank the wrong person, the wrong media outlet or say the wrong city. Very embarrassing.

2) The clock is ticking
Media outlets are always on a tight deadline. Therefore it is important to show up on time for a scheduled interview, or if they give you 3 minutes to explain your product you should stick to the time allotted. It is always a great idea to ask the interviewer ahead of time how much time they will give you. Respect their time and it will go a long way in ensuring a return visit from the media the next time.

3) Know what you are talking about
What is the product you have just introduced and how will it effect the lives of the consumers? The most effective presentations will avoid technical words or phrases that are not familiar to the general public. Stick to the facts and use real words that people will remember.

4) Speak in short sentences
Media outlets are always looking for the most effective sound byte that best describes the story or situation. In most cases it is a bold statement that is shorter than 15 seconds. Prepare your presentation using short responses - each providing valuable information and promotion about your product.

5) Show off your product
It seems obvious, but if you have just launched a brand new product you had better show it off to the media. You would be surprised how many people forget to put their new product in the spotlight. This could be the unveiling of a new logo, new vehicle, new staff member, etc. Show them off to the media.

6) Big finish
Remembering that you only have 15 seconds or less to make an impact, how will consumers find more information about you? This is where you have to decide to give your phone number, email address or web address. Pick the strongest ONE and stick with ONE. If you are crafty, you will find ways to include mentions of your website, blog, or social media sites within the body of the interview.

If you can master these techniques you will become much more effective in the delivery of your message to the media.

-Darren

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Three Steps For Effective Crisis Management

The massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has quickly become an environmental disaster, one that appears to have caught a few people sleeping on the job.
While Government Officials continue to point fingers, more have become extremely critical of the slow reaction and response from British Petroleum, the operator of the oil rig. Almost two weeks after an explosion sunk the off-shore oil platform, BP is now taking responsibility and beginning the process of damage control.

Has your company been given the proper training in crisis management if it happened tomorrow?

There are three basic rules to remember when controlling a crisis situation.
S: state the obvious and admit to the mistake or crisis
O: offer support and assistance to victims
S: signal the steps your company is taking to correct the mistake

As important for you to understand how to react and respond in a crisis, it is also critical for all staff members to do the same. Who is your company spokesperson?
Only the company spokesperson should be permitted to release information to the media - that means an immediate control of all messages your staff members are broadcasting to the world via social media.

Immediate and responsive actions are vital in times of crisis as they can turn a potentially damaging situation into an ability to demonstrate leadership and strength within your organization.

A few days of Crisis Management training could save weeks, months or years of embarrassment and shame for your company.


-Darren
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