By Eric Althoff and Bianca Vranceanu
Being interviewed for a television, radio, print, or podcast spot can be intimidating, particularly if you’re not used to interacting with the media. However, being a thought leader and industry expert often means being in front of the media to talk about salient topics and industry-specific trends. Some people go on TV and seem so naturally self-assured and not at all nervous; however, the rest of us typically need at least a little coaching.
Promova provides media training that assists leaders in being better prepared to interact with the press. Many of us at Promova are former journalists and corporate leaders, and we take great pride in maintaining relationships with reporters and editors with whom we have worked in the past. Positive interactions become self-reinforcing; thus, when we contact a reporter who knows us, much of the hard work is already done.
Building bridges between you and our media partners is the first step. The next part of the process is assisting in your media training. We use a behavioral tool that was developed to steer training and coaching based on the results of a survey that takes less than ten minutes. Find A Rainmaker is an extremely helpful place to start planning your media training. The results help direct the training based on 21 behavioral traits so that we know the most impactful places to spend time training.
Promova develops media training guides to cover various aspects that help you succeed with your appearance. Things like a reporter’s background and focus areas are identified so leaders can get a sense of the audience and areas of interest. Furthermore, having a greater insight into the publication’s geographic area and the scope of its news will help you focus your message to cater specifically to its audience.
The next part of our media training includes a simulated interview to help prepare responses. You might even consider practicing answering these sample questions in front of the mirror or with a spouse, friend, or trusted coworker as your “test” audience. They will also likely tell you if you’re fidgeting too much, looking down at the floor, or exhibiting other behaviors that might be distracting in a professional situation. Promova can also provide coaching here as well.
In addition to these sample questions, Promova’s media training offers tips like steering clear of “promotional” talk that might make it sound as if you’re selling something and thinking about the reporter’s audience when you respond. Be sure you highlight what you want to get across in multiple responses, as the reporter will likely not be able to use everything you provided – in other words, stay on message! Discuss trending topics within your industry and provide case studies or recent news items to make your quotes more trending. Remember, YOU are the expert; people will want to know and hear what you say. During the interview, It is key to remember that your audience may not be up on all of the technical ins and outs that are second nature to you. Keep your words plain and free of jargon that might confuse the lay audience.
If you don’t know the answer to a question, feel comfortable saying so. Offer to get back to the interviewer with more information about the question asked – this helps build the relationship and demonstrate you are a trusted source who wants to help them get the answers they need.
We’re here to help you become an expert source in the media. This exposure helps reinforce your expertise, drive clients and customers to you, and build media relationships that will continue to grow. See you in the news!