Creating a presence: How to present yourself in a media interview

3 tips to successfully represent yourself and your brand in an interview

media interviewIf you’re the spokesperson for your manufacturing company, you’re in the unique position of representing not only yourself, but also your brand. This is an important opportunity, because it allows you to let the public know more about your business and to demonstrate your thought leadership and manufacturing capabilities. As manufacturing public relations specialists, the Ripley PR team understands the importance of accurately representing your expertise (and the expertise of your company) in the best way possible.

Here are three tips you can use in your next interview to successfully represent your brand:

  1. Do your homework – When asked to do an interview, it’s important that you understand who’s interviewing you, for what publication, and for what purpose. Also, ask yourself: What do I want to accomplish in this interview and what do I want to say about this particular subject? From here, you can prepare a set of talking points to keep your interview focused. If you’re not interested in the opportunity, or if it will not accomplish your goals for your manufacturing company, there is nothing wrong with declining an interview.
  2. Stay on message – “No comment” is still a comment, and never assume anything is “off the record.” In instances where you’re unsure of an answer, it is okay to say you’ll get back with the reporter with that information. To keep the interview on topic, try using flags like, “The most important thing is …” or “The bottom line is …” or to bridge answers with phrases like, “Let me put that in perspective …” or “What’s important to remember is …”
  3. Stay positive and stick to the facts – The state of mind that you are in during an interview will show up, regardless of whether the interview is for TV or print. If you’re positive, you’ll come across as positive. If you stick to the facts, you’ll come across as factual. Offer short, succinct answers and let the reporter ask follow ups if needed. Don’t argue with the reporter or answer hypothetical questions, and avoid commenting on rumors or using jargon or acronyms. Even if you’re caught off guard by a question, staying positive and sticking to the facts will help keep the interview on message.

Looking for more in-depth training? Give Ripley PR a call at 865-977-1973 today. We offer one-on-one media training with manufacturing business owners and executives to help them successfully represent themselves and their companies through our expertise in manufacturing public relations.

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