Clients can often get caught unawares when a journalist calls. Sometimes they get flustered and feel compelled to answer questions on the spot.
For this reason it’s best for an interview to be postponed momentarily so that you have time to gather your thoughts and research any information necessary. Don’t be afraid to buy time rather than appear unprepared.
Try to establish a rapport and ask the following questions:
- What is your name?
- What news organisation are you from?
- What is the story about?
- What can I help you with?
- What is the angle of your story?
- Are you talking to anyone else on this story?
- How much do you know about this topic?
- Can I email you some background information?
- When is your deadline?
- When will the story run?
- What is your phone number and email address?
Often it only takes 10 minutes for you to gather your thoughts. Don’t be afraid to ask a journalist if you can call them back. This can benefit both you and them, by giving you the time to provide quality content.
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