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Quick reference guides

woman crossing items off checklist

Interview preparation checklist

Before accepting

  • Who is the reporter and outlet?
  • What is the subject and news hook?
  • What format (print, radio, TV, podcast)?
  • What’s the deadline?
  • Do I have relevant expertise?
  • Do I have time to prepare adequately?

Message development

  • Identify 3–5 key points
  • Practice stating points concisely
  • Prepare supporting examples/stories
  • Anticipate difficult questions
  • Practice bridging phrases

Technical setup (for remote interviews)

  • Test camera and microphone
  • Check lighting and background
  • Eliminate background noise
  • Have backup connection method
  • Close unnecessary applications

 

Media interview self-evaluation

After each interview

  • Did I make my key points?
  • Did I control the interview effectively?
  • Was I succinct and quotable?
  • Did I avoid jargon?
  • Did I correct any misinformation?
  • What would I do differently next time?
Date created: August 2025

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