CMBDO Game Plan
A well-prepared media interview can help you build credibility, raise visibility and strengthen relationships with clients, reporters and the broader business community. Whether you’re responding to a breaking news request or participating in a planned feature, your success depends on preparation, composure and message discipline. Use this checklist to ensure you make the most of every opportunity.
Media Interview Checklist
- Before the Interview
- Understand the reporter’s publication, audience and recent coverage.
- Ask for the interview format (live, recorded, phone, video or written) and whether questions can be shared in advance.
- Identify three to five clear, concise message points to communicate.
- Prepare examples, short stories or analogies that bring your points to life.
- Review and practice your talking points with a colleague or communications professional.
- Anticipate difficult or controversial questions and plan how to bridge back to your messages.
- Confirm interview logistics, timing and location details.
- During the Interview
- Turn off distractions (phone, email alerts and notifications).
- Speak slowly, clearly and with confidence.
- Repeat key messages throughout the conversation.
- Avoid jargon, overly technical terms or long historical explanations.
- Provide relatable examples that humanize your message.
- If asked an off-topic or uncomfortable question, bridge back to your main points.
- Never say anything you wouldn’t want quoted—there is no such thing as “off the record.”
- Offer to follow up with supporting materials if needed.
- Television or Video Interviews
- Choose solid colors or pastels; avoid patterns, checks or bright whites.
- Wear a dark jacket for business interviews.
- Sit up straight, lean slightly forward and maintain steady eye contact with the interviewer.
- Use natural gestures and controlled body language.
- Avoid looking directly into the camera unless instructed.
- Test your appearance on camera if possible and make quick grooming adjustments.
- After the Interview
- Thank the reporter for their time and professionalism.
- Offer to clarify or provide additional background information.
- Monitor for publication and share coverage internally.
- Send a short note of appreciation if the story reflects your perspective accurately.
- Stay connected as a reliable future source.