Properly planned and organized events will attract the attention of the media and it can be a great platform for marketing your event and business. However, navigating the murky water of media interviews can be a daunting task, and it can go either way. Depending on how you handle your media interviews, you can earn potential clients.

Only a handful of companies can afford a PR department, and you may find that it is your turn to handle the PR activities of an event, such as media interviews in the wake of an upcoming event. It is crucial that you avoid the following mistakes during media interviews and start shining to attract clients and event attendees.

Winging It

Many people who do media interviews think it is a simple Q&A session, while it is hardly the case. Lack of preparation for the interview will disorient your mind, and it will be clear to your audience that you are not prepared. Ensure to ask for a copy of the questions from the interviewer and practice all the answers to the questions, especially

Use of Space Fillers

An example of space fillers includes, ‘sort of like,’ ‘it is kind of,’ ‘uuummm,’ et al. and this is a clear sign that you do not have a grasp on the subject matter and it makes you look unprofessional. This might lead to a lower rating of your company, and it can result in reduced client conversions and low attendances to your events. Preparation is the best tactic to avoid sounding unprofessional.

Using a Salesy Language

Pre-packaged stories do not sit well with your audience as well as interviewers. These stories include phrases you would find in your company’s sales and marketing manual or press releases. Aim to share an inspiring behind-the-scenes story or insights, and you will enthrall your audience.

Taking Passive Role

If you watch and listen to the best interviews, you will notice that they all sound like a conversation. Many people go to media interviews and dish out answers without making an effort at a conversation. The ideal interview is where both parties ask and provide answers to questions. A day before the media interview, prepare a few conversation questions to make the interview interesting.

Neglecting the Interviewer’s Communication Styles

Impressions dictate the success of the interaction you will have with your interviewer. The best way to get a good rapport is by mirroring the communication style of the interviewer. Allow them to set the tone as well as the pace and the interview will naturally flow once you acclimatize to their style.

In conclusion, the best way to avoid the above mistakes is to use role-playing to prepare for the interview. The greatest interviewees including presidents and other eloquent leaders use role-playing to prepare their answers and ensure they are ready for any question.