How to Rehearse for a Media Interview – Video

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How to Prepare for a Successful Media Interview

Introduction

This video explains why preparation is non-negotiable for a successful media interview. You’ll learn how to craft clear messages, anticipate difficult questions and rehearse in a realistic, high-pressure environment. The guidance shows you how to stay strategic, stay calm and deliver an interview that strengthens your reputation rather than damaging it.

What you’ll learn

• Why poor media interviews have long-lasting consequences
• How to prepare messages that resonate with your target audience
• Why you must consider the impact of what you say on different groups
• How to anticipate and handle tough or hostile questions
• Why realistic role play is the best rehearsal for broadcast interviews

Summary

A strong media interview demands serious preparation. The risks of getting it wrong are high, especially when the topic is contentious or high profile. You need clear messages and a clear understanding of how those messages will land with different audiences. You also need to prepare for the hard questions — the ones you hope you won’t be asked but know you might be. The most effective rehearsal is a realistic role play with someone acting as a journalist: interrupting, challenging and probing your answers. This type of practice builds resilience, clarity and confidence so you’re fully prepared on the day.

Mini FAQ

Why is preparation so important?
Because a poor interview can follow you for years. Preparation protects your reputation.

How do I prepare my messages?
Be clear about what you want to say and how each message will land with your audience.

Should I prepare for hostile questions?
Yes. Brainstorm the toughest questions and work out how to answer them credibly.

What’s the best way to rehearse?
A role play with someone acting as a journalist. It’s the most realistic and valuable practice you can do.

Transcript (edited)

With a media interview, you have to be incredibly prepared. A bad interview can haunt you for weeks, months, even years. The consequences are serious, especially when the topic is controversial. You have to be strategic and clear about your messages. You also need to think about how those messages will affect your different audiences, because not everyone wants to hear what you have to say. And you must brainstorm the really difficult questions you might face.

When you rehearse, decide what you want to say and think about the questions you’re likely to be asked. Then practise. We recommend a role play where the trainer acts as the journalist, interrupting, challenging and pressing you on your answers. That’s the kind of rehearsal that prepares you for a successful media interview.

Suggested Links

• Prepare for a tough media interview
• Build clearer, stronger messages
• Practise with a realistic broadcast role play
• Handle difficult questions with confidence

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Read Our Ultimate Guide to Media Training and Better Media Interviews