Here are Four Mistakes to Avoid in Media Interviews

Avoid these common mistakes for stronger media interviews.

Sometimes people with significant information can struggle with media interviews. They have so much information that they may have difficulty discerning what information to share with various platforms. They may also overwhelm the audience with far more information than can be processed in a single setting. I also see this with highly technical people; they may speak in ways that the ordinary person doesn’t understand. There is a value to speaking plainly; using plain language.

Here are four mistakes I see leaders make when participating in media interviews. 

1. Taking too long to get to the point.

With information overload and a variety of external stimuli, many people have short attention spans. We decide after the first few words we hear or read whether we will continue to listen. Sometimes we decide seconds after a person opens their mouth whether we’ll listen or keep listening. Get to the point quickly. 

2. Overuse of words.

Using a ton of words doesn’t always make you sound smart or intelligent. Famed horror writer Stephen King wrote a book for writers called, On Writing. In it he reminded writers to never use a big word when a small word will do. Never use 10 words when you can make your point in 4. Too many words create opportunities for confusion and disengagement. When you’re writing and speaking, using too many words can clutter meaning and make it difficult for listeners to grasp what you’re saying. 

3. Providing too much of a backstory.

When you’re doing an interview and reporters ask a question, the audience expects an answer to the specific question the reporter posed. They, and the journalist, want you get to the point. There’s no need to spend a lot of time giving an elaborate backstory when a simple direct answer will do. If you need to offer context, tell the reporter, “listen I’m going to answer that question but first I’d like to just give you a little bit of context,” and then quickly offer the needed context. Then provide a direct response. For help learning how to skillfully answer media questions, schedule a paid consultation.

4. Coming across as insincere.

When people listen to you, they are evaluating whether they trust what you are saying. Before you participate in an interview, consider arranging mock interviews, especially for tricky or difficult topics. Ask the team to be honest with you. Now, in order for people to tell you the truth, you first have to have created an environment where truth-telling is rewarded and valued. The feedback you receive can help you tweak your presentation style to support your message delivery, and your ability to connect with your audience.

These are our tips. For a deeper dive, consider scheduling a media training. Our team will work with you to help you communicate more effectively and gain results.

Jennifer R. Farmer is the principal of Spotlight PR LLC. For more tips, check out our other blogs. We also invite you to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates.