Four steps to giving effective media interviews
We’ve all seen the clips on social media – an interviewee caught like a rabbit in the headlights, a journalist insisting on an answer when it’s clear they’re not going to respond. This might make you wary of ever agreeing to be interviewed. However, there are good reasons to speak to the press, and techniques […]
Media training Q and A: Marcus Boocock from IOSH
The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health is one of our longest-standing clients. We have been working with their senior leadership and experts for many years, providing media and presentation training. We are very grateful to Marcus Boocock, their PR and Public Affairs Manager, for taking part in our inaugural client Q and A. Tell […]
Your rights as an interviewee
When you do an interview with the media, it is important to know your rights, so that you can ensure you are well-prepared for what might happen, and are not misrepresented. Here are eight rights: 1. If you’re in the UK, you’re unlikely to be given the questions in advance, however, you do have the […]
The value of media training
What is the value of media training? There are a whole range of benefits, including: It gives you the tools to prepare for a media interview It helps you articulate effectively the points you want to make when you give an interview It shows you how to deal with tricky, left-field questions – what […]
Alternatives to no comment
One point we make during every media training course is that interviewees should never say “no comment” in response to a question as it either makes you sound guilty or that you agree with the point put to you. And every delegate always ask what they can say instead – the alternatives to no comment. […]
What happens if you work with a writing coach?
If delegates on our one-day writing courses find they want or need support on a longer-term basis, we suggest the support of a writing coach. The one we recommend is Jane Heaton, who has many years’ experience as both a marketeer and a writing coach. Here she shares an insight into how coaching works. This […]
Broadcast interview rehearsals
The request was for a half- or possibly a full-day media training course, but when we our briefing call with the client, it emerged that what they really needed was a series of broadcast interview rehearsals. A public sector client was allowing the BBC cameras and mics in for a day, which meant the multiple […]
Why podcast training is your shortcut to success
With podcasting becoming an increasingly part of the broadcast landscape, here is some more information about the podcast training we offer, from our trainer Paul Curran. Starting a podcast sounds simple, right? Just grab a mic, hit record, and start talking. But producing a podcast that actually ‘sounds’ professional and gets found by the right […]
How to shine in podcast interviews
Joe Rogan, the Obamas, Rob Loe Meghan, Peter Crouch, Ed Balls, Alistair and Rory, even our very own Rob Curling – it seems everyone has a podcast nowadays. There’s one to suit every interest. As they become increasingly popular, the demand for guests has increased, so more and more of our delegates are being asked […]
Archbishop Tutu’s lesson in interview preparation
Find out what our trainer Paul Curran, discovered about interview preparation when he was sent to interview a global figure as a “cub” reporter. It’s Spring 1990 and I’m a relatively novice reporter on a mission. I have my ‘trusty’ Uher (it’s a reel to reel tape recorder – which was less than trusty) slung […]
What is your role in this media interview?
Before any media interview, it is important to know where you fit in the story – what is your role? A journalist will “cast” their stories, and where you fit into this will have an impact on the type of interview you will be expected to do, and the questions you might be asked. Broadly, […]
How to avoid a disastrous doorstep interview
Doorstep interviews are one of the most stressful types to deal with: you normally give them when you’re under negative scrutiny, you’re caught on the hop & you may be surrounded by a media scrum ready to pounce – and if you don’t know how to handle a doorstep interview, the results could make a […]
What journalists want from interviewees
“What do journalists want?” That’s one of the first questions we ask when we’re running media training courses. Answers are varied, but often include: “A story”, “A good quote”, and, very often, “To catch you out”. All of these are true. And all of them are important. In truth, though, most of the time, it won’t […]
Radio interviews: how to improve delivery
It may sound obvious, but when you do a radio or podcast interview, the listener can’t see you. They can’t see your expressions, your body language, your smile or frown, so all they have to judge you on is your voice. And generally, the listener is doing something else. Only part of their brain is […]
Why you should avoid “No Comment” in media interviews
When we’re running media and crisis training, we always advise our clients to avoid saying “no comment”. Here, the experienced tech journalist and media consultant Nick Huber explains why. When your company says “no comment” to the media it can be more revealing than you think – and not in a good way. Based on my […]