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Talking to the media - interview guidelines

Please always inform the press team if you have been asked to do a media interview (even if it is after you have done it). If you are unsure of whether or not to do the interview, we are happy to discuss it with you and provide advice.

If you are called out of the blue by a journalist

• ask what they want to talk to you about
• tell them you are busy and cannot discuss it right now
• agree a time when they can call you back

This gives you time to think and plan what to say. However, be aware that most journalists’ deadlines are very short – hours rather than days.

Don’t be flattered or bulldozed into an interview you don’t feel comfortable doing. If you do wish to go ahead, here are some tips on how to handle the interview.

The key to a good interview is preparation

• Ask if the interview is live or pre-recorded
• Ask how long you will be on air
• Make a list of two of three positive points you wish to make
• Ask the interviewer what their first question will be
• Look the interviewer in the eye (even if you are on radio)
• Be enthusiastic and authoritative. Smile when appropriate (smiles can be heard!)
• Answer the question and then ‘springboard’ your positive points
• Tell the truth and don’t be afraid to say, ‘I don’t know’. Use it as an opportunity to make your positive points by saying, ‘But what I do know is ….’
• Avoid jargon or technical words – most people will have no background in your field
• Remain cool and always be polite
• Relax – don’t sniff, rustle paper or jangle coins in your pocket

For TV specifically

• Dress smartly
• Check your appearance in a mirror beforehand
• If sitting, sit up, cross your legs and fold your hands loosely in front of you to start with, but feel free to use them to express yourself
• If standing, stand with your feet slightly apart and your weight evenly balanced between them
• Don’t shuffle or move your body too much
• Look at the interviewer and not at the camera

Try to remember to say you are from the University of Bristol

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