Interviews with reporters can be quite the rollercoaster ride, especially for founders of brands or CEOs of large companies. It’s an opportunity to flaunt your expertise, boost your brand reputation, and get your company’s message out there. But hey, no pressure, right? First of all, before I offer my top interview tips, I have a recommendation …
To properly prepare to interact with the media, consider a comprehensive media training program that includes several exercises designed to help you hone your talking points, remain calm under pressure and be prepared to deal with the unknown.
From crafting standout PR pitches to developing a comprehensive B2B earned media strategy, our health tech public relations agency can help your organization increase visibility for your brand, products, and leadership team in an increasingly crowded space.
If these options aren’t feasible for you right now and a big media opportunity is knocking on your door, check out my interview tips:
8 interview tips for B2B health tech
1. Get to know the reporter
Before you jump into the interview, take a moment to research and get to know the reporter. Check out their background, previous work, and what they’re into. This little detective work will give you insight into their style, preferred tone, and the kind of questions they ask. Skim their recent articles or interviews to get a feel for their perspective on your industry or topic.
2. Define your key messages
It’s crucial to nail down your key messages to keep things smooth and impactful. These are the core ideas you want to convey during the interview. Take some time to craft concise and memorable statements that align with your brand values, vision, and goals. These key messages will serve as guideposts, helping you stay on track and effectively deliver your points.
3. Practice, practice, practice
They say practice makes perfect, and they’re not wrong! Before the big day, practice your communication skills and boost that confidence. Set up mock interviews with colleagues who can throw reporter-style questions at you. Their feedback will help polish your delivery and make your responses more impactful.
4. Prepare for the unexpected
Expect the unexpected, my friend! Anticipate various scenarios and questions that might come your way. Prepare responses for both positive and negative aspects of your brand or company. Be ready to tackle difficult questions transparently and honestly without compromising your brand integrity. Being prepared will help you respond gracefully and maintain control of the conversation.
5. Engage and connect
It’s showtime! When the interview kicks off, make a genuine effort to connect with the reporter. Build some rapport and be an active listener. Show interest in their questions and respond thoughtfully. If you catch their name, use it to create that personal connection. Engaging with the interviewer will create a more positive and productive atmosphere.
6. Be yourself, be transparent
No need to put on a corporate mask here. Be yourself! Authenticity and transparency are key ingredients that resonate with audiences. Steer clear of jargon or overly technical language that might alienate your audience. Talk like you’re having a conversation with a friend, letting your passion for the subject shine through. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that bring your points to life. Remember, the audience wants to connect with the real you, not just a robotic spokesperson.
7. Stay on message, but adapt
While sticking to your key messages is essential, don’t forget to be flexible and adapt to the interviewer’s flow. Use smooth transitions (bridging techniques) to seamlessly link their questions to your key points. Be agile and pivot when needed while still weaving in your key messages. This flexibility shows that you can think on your feet and provide valuable insights.
8. Mind your body language
Don’t underestimate the power of non-verbal communication! Your body language can greatly impact how your message is received. So, project confidence by maintaining eye contact, sitting up straight, and using natural hand gestures. And hey, don’t forget to flash that genuine smile! Keep an eye on your facial expressions, as they can reinforce or undermine your words. Let your body language speak the same positive language as your words.
Do your research, define your key messages, and practice, practice, practice. Engage with the reporter, be authentic and transparent, and adapt as needed. Mind your body language, it speaks volumes! And remember to breathe. With these interview tips and proper preparation, you’ve got this!
