Three Rules for Media Interviews

I started my working life as a journalist and eventually became director of communications for the media publishing company. Soon, its presses started breaking down, and then it became involved in a strike.

If there was a degree in “Media Trouble-R-Us,” I had earned it.
As a result, I developed three rules for media interviews:

1. In media interviews, always have three key messages.
The biggest error most communicators make when facing the media is they go into full-on defensive mode.

Instead of vowing to “survive” the interview with a minimum of damage, convince yourself it’s your job is to convey your own three messages.
(Once you accomplish this, congratulate yourself on your success.)
The best defense is always a good offense.
So, why only three messages?
The same reason there are three little pigs, three stooges, and three musketeers. And the same reason I have three rules for media interviews.

People remember things more easily in groups of three.

This will help you remember the messages yourself and will ensure your audiences remember them, as well.

When developing the key messages, make sure they answer the main questions reporters are likely to have about your story.

If your train has derailed, express concern for the passengers and describe your company’s commitment to safety.

If you’re laying off staff, explain why, and describe the (generous, we hope) severance packages.
If your CEO has died, express regret for the family and detail your succession plan.

Most important, make sure your key messages address these questions: Why? How? Where?
Then, use those messages to answer all the questions you’re asked.

2. Have some ‘turning phrases’ ready.
When a reporter asks you a question you can’t or don’t want to answer, have a few phrases that will allow you to turn the question and provide the key message you have ready.
Here’s a handy list:

· The more important question is… [return to key message]

· I find, what people really want to know is… [return to key message]

· The crucial issue in front of us today is… [return to key message]

Don’t answer questions with other questions, as that will make reporters see you as belligerent and provocative.

But you can redirect, if you do so in a respectful and friendly fashion.
Memorize the phrases above, or develop others so that you aren’t always “turning” with the same words.

3. Remember: The microphone is always on.
Print reporters know they always get their best material after their notebooks are closed, and TV reporters know they get their best stuff if the subject is unaware the camera is still running.

Consider this 2012 example from President Obama and then-Russian-President Dmitri Medvedev:

Obama: “On all these issues, but particularly missile defense, this can be solved, but it’s important for him to give me space.”

Medvedev: “Yeah, I understand. I understand your message about space. Space for you…”

Obama: “This is my last election. After my election I have more flexibility.”

Following what was widely viewed as Obama’s gaffe, Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney criticized the remark.
He said:

President Obama signaled that he’s going to cave to Russia on missile defense, but the American people have a right to know where else he plans to be “flexible” in a second term.

It was a stupid mistake and one you should avoid.
You might have a cordial relationship with certain journalists , but they have a job to do, and it doesn’t usually involve helping you.
Always regard anything you say in the presence of a reporter as something that might appear on the 6 p.m. news. Edit yourself accordingly.

What rules do you follow in order to make sure you’re getting the media attention you deserve?

Daphne Gray-Grant is a former daily newspaper editor, a writing and editing coach and the author of the popular book "8 1/2 Steps to Writing Faster, Better." Via her website, she offers the newsletter "Power Writing." It’s weekly, brief and free.

A version of this article originally appeared on Spin Sucks.