Since January is “National Get Organized Month,” I've had several opportunities to speak to the media. It has reminded me of how important it is to be prepared for such an event. One of the best ways to promote any product, service, or passion is through the media, so I thought I’d share some ideas with you today.  Listen as I share 10 communication basics to help you prepare for a media opportunity. Podcast Duration: 04:03 (MM:SS)

Click The Play Button To Listen Below:

Planner Pad is offering a 20% discount for my listeners and clients. Use promo code PEI20 at checkout to receive 20% off your entire purchase. Try Planner Pad risk free.

Podcast Transcript

One of the common characteristics of highly successful people is their ability to communicate in a variety of circumstances ranging from one-on-one conversations with a prospect over the phone or at a networking event, making a presentation to a small group of colleagues, speaking at a large event -- or talking to the media.

Since January is “National Get Organized Month,” I've had several opportunities to speak to the media. It has reminded me of how important it is to be prepared for such an event. One of the best ways to promote any product, service, or passion is through the media, so I thought I’d share some ideas with you today.

Always be on the lookout for a “hook” to connect your story to something that is timely -- a special day, an event in the news, or an article or new book related to your topic (even if you didn't write it!). The media loves statistics, stories, and sound bytes, so develop a system for collecting information you have readily available for use in any interview.

When you do have a media opportunity, here are 10 techniques for communicating effectively:

1. Learn as much as you can about the host and the target audience before the interview.
2. Write down the main points you would like to cover, and identify statistics, facts, or personal stories to illustrate each point. (I keep two sets of index cards at my desk: one set for a short interview and one set for longer interviews. I have the same information in electronic form in case I am traveling when the opportunity arises.)
3. From those talking points, develop questions which allow you to address those points. Whenever possible, give the producer the questions prior to your interview.
4. Being a good guest means being a good listener. Stay “present” in the interview and comment on what the host is talking about. Be sure to answer the question the host asks, but don’t hesitate to get in your point by saying something like “That’s true, but did you know...” or “It’s also interesting that...”
5. Sit up straight and breathe deeply. Speak strongly and confidently.
6. If the show takes callers, never interrupt the caller or the host.
7. Make your host look good. At some point say, “That’s an excellent question!”
8. In a longer format interview, don’t ramble on too long. Keep in mind that the audience changes frequently, so you can repeat important information you already gave. For example, “As I stated earlier...”
9. Remember that your last impression is more important than your first. Practice a powerful wrap-up statement. Always end the interview with a sincere thanks.
10. Write a thank you note. Few guests do, and you’ll be remembered, and it will increase your chances of being asked back. The host will be more familiar with you and the interview will be even better!

So here’s my challenge for you this week! Pay attention to interviews you hear this week. What makes them effective? Post your comments or questions in the comments area of this episode at barbarahemphill.com about your own interview experiences. If you like this podcast and think a friend or colleague can benefit from it please share it with them using the Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn buttons on the podcast page on my website.”

Planner Pad is offering a 20% discount for my listeners and clients. Use promo code PEI20 at checkout to receive 20% off your entire purchase. Try Planner Pad risk free.