Media Interview Checklist from a Media Trainer

When preparing for an interview, make sure you have all the items on your media interview checklist ready to go.

Media interview image on Media Interview Checklist from Expert Media Training

Many media interviews take place with very little notice. It’s not unusual to receive an interview request within hours (or minutes) of when it’s to take place.

You want to be prepared so that, even on your busiest days, you’re ready to say “yes” to a last-minute media interview request.

If you don’t one already, here’s a quick list of items to have ready before an interview:

1. your “elevator pitch” or introduction

2. key message points you want to deliver

3. a plan to handle the tough questions as well as the simple ones

4. specific calls to action that you want to incorporate into your responses

5. clothing and shoes ready to go (including jewelry and handbag/tote/briefcase, if any of these items suit you)

6. a plan for hair and make-up (men, you might need to have sheer powder on hand to reduce shine)

These are theitems to have ready before an interview, however, it is also important to receive proper media training if you haven’t already done so. If you require media training, you can find more information on our services here: https://expertmediatraining.com/services/.

For additional tips on media training and preparing for an interview, read some of our other blog posts:

Body Language in Interviews and Meetings – Nonverbal Communication:

https://expertmediatraining.com/body-language-in-interviews-and-meetings/

Prepare for TV Interviews:

https://expertmediatraining.com/prepare-for-tv-interviews-media-trainer-tips/

Lisa Elia, founder of Expert Media Training

About the Author

Lisa Elia

Lisa Elia is a leadership communication strategist who works with executives, founders, and expert teams to strengthen how ideas are communicated, understood, and acted upon inside organizations. Through her SpeakerShift Leadership Communication Accelerator and private advisory work, she helps leaders develop greater clarity, executive presence, and influence in high-stakes conversations—from leadership meetings and major presentations to investor discussions and critical organizational moments.

Organizations also license her leadership communication programs to strengthen communication capabilities across their teams. Learn more about the SpeakerShift Leadership Communication Accelerator.

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