Media is an important tool for activists to use to get their message across to a wider audience than they would otherwise be able to reach. Here are some quick tips for talking to the media:

• Relax. Being interviewed, especially on camera, can be very intimidating. Don’t worry too much about how you look or sound. If you feel like you totally botch an answer and it’s on camera (not live), just start over. The reporter will likely edit the mistake.
• Know the message. Read all campaign materials. If you are uncertain about something, don’t answer the question and risk giving wrong information, either bridge the question back to your talking points or point the reporter to someone who does know the answer. During the interview, look for ways to interject the message.
• Keep your answers simple and direct. You will have some time to think about what you are going to say. Try to make your answers as concise and memorable as possible. The average television soundbite is only about 7 seconds long!
• Make it interesting. Reporters can get the who, what, when, and where from press releases or by attending the event. They want the personal side of the story. Sharing a story or anecdote that shows why the spending shift we suggest is necessary will go a long way in getting our message across.
• Stick to the message. Like any conversation, interviews can easily get away from the main topic. If you feel like you are getting away from the message, look for ways to steer the conversation back to it.
• Be honest. If you don’t know the answer to a reporter’s question, promise to get it to them as soon as you can. Then, actually get back to them.
• Don’t say anything to a reporter you wouldn’t want to appear in the story. There’s no such thing as “off the record,” even if it’s promised to you.

After your interview

Be sure to get the reporter’s business card (if you can), but at least the reporter’s name, contact information, and the name and location of the media outlet the reporter represents.
Please send information to info @ priceofoil.org