Here are our top tips to help you get the most from your five minutes of fame:

  • Write down your three key messages as bullet points
  • Put them in priority order
  • Use everyday language - simple words, no jargon
  • Avoid lists or numbers - break facts into short, digestible chunks
  • Use regional information if you have it – it connects with the listener
  • If you have a telephone number or web address to give, signpost it early - this acts as a prompt for the interviewer and allows the listener time to get a pen
  • Resist the temptation to 'plug' things – it doesn’t make a good interview and the radio stations don’t like it
  • Finally, have fun, enjoy the experience, and remember - a SMILE in your voice works wonders on radio!

    COURTING CONTROVERSY...

    • If your topic is in the news, or likely to be controversial, ensure you are up to date and well briefed before accepting an invitation to go on-air
    • Make positive statements – never say ‘no comment’, it is defensive, and the listener may draw the conclusion that you’ve something to hide
    • Don’t allow a cynical journalist to rattle you – that is their job! Stay calm and polite, answer truthfully and stick to known facts
    • Your PR adviser is the best judge of individual situations, but tough interviews often present an OPPORTUNITY to present your side of a controversy
    • Be prepared - ask about our media training service.

  • If you have access to an ISDN broadcast facility or local studio, use it – it’s worth the effort to deliver your message in quality. If you are regularly called upon to give interviews, ask about our ISDN installation service – the equipment is small and easy to use these days, and we can also set you up with record facilities.
  • If giving an interview by telephone, you will need to use a landline number, ideally in a small room or quiet corner. Mobile ‘phones are not reliable enough for broadcast so tend only to be used in emergencies.
  • And remember to switch OFF your mobile whilst you’re on-air - even on silent, they transmit interference.

Just Talking BROADCAST PR is run by broadcasters and journalists – we'll guide you through the interview process, help you get your key points across and give you some pointers to help deal with the unexpected...

We work with authors, publishers, charities, campaigning organisations and commercial clients when they've something interesting to tell the media. If you need help with a campaign, call us on 0845 257 5970 or email creative "at" radiointerviews.co.uk.

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