Media Relations 101 Preparing for the Interview

Here are a few helpful tips for those of you preparing for a big interview.

When quoted, context is key and reporters will take you out of context. Email them your responses as a back up. Leave a paper trail of fact checks.
Ask them to use your quotes in their entirety. Let them know your answers are not for edification.
Be who they want you to be. Dress the part, speak the sound bites and share the wisdom.
Go a little wild. Say something outlandish. Controversy serves clicks.
Don’t be fooled, they are not your friend or necessarily your fan. They must remain objective and unbiased. It is a part of their job.
Journalists need to appear credible, so the story they submit will not be entirely positive. This is not an advertisement for you and your business.
The story will be edited, so much of what you say during the interview will never be published. Know your key messages and repeat them. Be prepared.
Give them a list of detractors. This way you at least you control the faults they will find and print about you.