Jean-Nicolas Desjeunes 
A media interview is a unique opportunity to reach your audiences, share your key messages, strengthen your credibility, and give visibility to your organization or projects. But to turn this moment into a success, it’s best to be well prepared. Here are our five essential tips to shine in front of a microphone or camera.
1. Do your homework and prepare
Before the interview, research the media outlet, its audience, and the interviewer. Is it a friendly conversation or a formal debate? Will there be other guests involved? What type of interview is it: phone, video conference, live, or pre-recorded? Who will ask the questions? What topics will be covered? The more you know in advance, the better prepared you will be and the better your performance.
2. Define your key messages and make sure to share them!
Your participation in an interview is usually planned around a topic relevant to your organization. You are the expert on the subject. It’s the perfect opportunity to speak directly to your audience. Often short in duration, an interview needs to be smooth and easily understood by listeners. What should they take away from your intervention? What are the 2–3 key messages you absolutely want to communicate? Make sure to define them clearly and integrate them into your answers during your preparation.
3. Pay attention to your communication
On radio or phone: Vary your tone, ensure a good network connection, be in a quiet and private space, articulate clearly, and smile while speaking. Silences on the radio can seem longer and awkward. If you need a moment to think, use phrases like “That’s an excellent question” to buy a few seconds.
On television or video conference: Choose a simple outfit, tidy up the background, adjust your camera angle, and ensure good lighting. Sit upright and look at the interviewer, not the camera. Television has strict time constraints. Be concise and get straight to the point to maximize your impact.
In any case, good breathing and full focus will allow you to deliver your messages brilliantly. Be natural and confident in your abilities!
4. Stay calm and anticipate difficult questions
When faced with a tough question, breathe, stay calm, and redirect the discussion to your key messages. Transitional phrases can help you do this. Avoid reacting negatively or refusing to answer, as this can be counterproductive. Your initial preparation will be extremely useful here, as you will have already anticipated complex questions and prepared your key messages accordingly. Your professionalism will make all the difference.
5. Be clear and concise
Media interviews, whether on radio, TV, or online, usually take place in short, fast-paced formats. Every second counts: a message that is too long or too technical risks losing the audience and being cut in editing.
Favor simple, direct, jargon-free sentences. Get straight to the point: a well-formulated message in 20 seconds has far more impact than a two-minute speech.
In short: Good preparation, clear messages, and a controlled attitude turn an interview into a visibility opportunity.
By following these best practices, you can ensure that your key messages are communicated clearly and effectively, leaving a positive and lasting impression.
Want to be even better prepared? Our team offers personalized media training to help you speak with confidence and impact. Contact us today.
