MEDIA COACHING: Make Sure You Say SOMETHING

I’ve heard it from athletes and executives, agents and even public relations specialists; "Why aren’t media folks paying attention or interested in my story?"

That’s a complex question for sure.  And it usually has many layers.  But the fundamental issue centers around how compelling your story is and how well you are able to deliver it.

Think of how many interviews you’ve heard... and then, consider how much you actually remember after you watched and listened. 

 

·         Did the person have a real message?

·         Did the person share a story?

·         Did the person challenge the question with a strong opinion or stance?

 

Many times, those who get the opportunity to answer questions or sit on a panel discussion simply… answer the questions.   There is no passion behind the comments, no thought behind the opinion or many no real opinion at all.

Media folks are looking for quotes.  It's as simple as that.  Get used to being comfortable with that.  And audiences want to be given something they can hold on to.

 

They want a :30 second news clip that has some staying power and can be re-played over and over again so their on-air analysts or commentators can react to what’s been said.  Print media folks are looking for the juicy comment that can create a headline and draw readers and page views. That's reality.

As the subject of an interview, you may be saying “well, why would I want that?”  or “Who needs to be the subject of everyone’s attention?”

I’ll spin it this way.  Do you want people to know your story? Or your brand?  Do you want to be relevant?  Most do.

Are YOU "Quotable?"

In today’s media world, the only way to be notable … is to be quotable.  So when you’ve got a date with the microphone and a reporter or interviewer on the other side, anticipate the questions and think about what you might say.  In the same way that speech writers take time to craft the right words for the right impact, think about what you want people to remember and then deliver it with the energy and confidence to make it happen.

Make Your Story "Shareable"

Everyone has a story to tell.  Not everyone makes the “cut.”  Today’s media space is very picky and limited to the very best at making people take notice.  Can you make it happen?  Yes you can.  So, figure out a way to take advantage of your chance by saying something … and not just being the subject of an interview.  That's how you build a "shareable story" and bigger platform for you and your brand. 

 

 

Thought for the Day: Those who get their message across are those who have put in the time working on message and delivery well before the time of their interview.