Tips: Working with the Media

Below are a few tips on what to do when a reporter calls wanting to interview you.

1. Find out the reporter’s name and organization.
2. Find out from the reporter what questions he/she will be asking.
3. Prepare yourself before granting the interview. Rehearse the tough questions.
4. Evaluate the situation and determine if there is anything to be gained by doing the interview. Sometimes the best thing to do is decline the request.
5. Develop two or three message points that you hope to convey during the interview. Practice delivering these points with a colleague.
6. Remember there is no such thing as "off the record" so anything you say to the reporter might appear in the story.
7. Provide the reporter with any written support materials you have that help make your points (fact sheets, press releases, etc.)
8. Prepare notes for yourself to use during the interview if this will make you feel more comfortable.
9. Keep your answers short and to the point.
10. Look for opportunities to bridge back to your message points.

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