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Updated October 11, 2002
Media Savvy #1
Tips to Prepare You to Meet the Media
"A Request for an Interview"
The phone rings. You pick it up without thinking, your
mind deep into the latest plot twist or wiping smeared peanut butter
off your child's face, and on the other end of the line is a reporter
asking for an interview. What five points should you have already considered
before opening your mouth?
- You have control. You don't have to take a call cold. Ask the reporter's
name and number and return her call at a time more convenient for
you. It is off the cuff comments that get us in trouble.
- Know the message you want to get across. Have three statements about
your writing you want stressed in any interview. These statements
are also known as Talking Points.
- Be armed with facts. RWA®'s website has wonderful facts. Have
them on hand and offer them to the reporter. Help her do her job.
And if you don't know an answer, don't guess. Its okay to say you
don't know and will call back with the information.
- Ask for a look at the article before it is published. You may be
turned down but you can ask.
- Remember, you can say no to an interview if you feel uncomfortable
with the venue or the reporter. Contrary to what the wags say, not
all publicity is good publicity. However, if you are going to do the
interview, don't leave the reporter hanging. Call back within twenty-four
hours or sooner.
Media Savvy is a column of quick tips to help
you prepare for the media side of writing.
It is written by RWA® members Morgan Chilson, Mary Burton, and Cathy
Maxwell.
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