Tips for radio and television interviews

Radio and television interviews look easy, but they can actually be quite unnerving. You are going to have your views or those of your association broadcast, sometimes directly on air.

Before you agree to an interview:

• What is the interview about and what topics will be covered
• What is the program and who are the audience
• What is the context
• How long will the interview last
• Is it live or recorded
• Is anyone else being interviewed and, if so, who
• Where will the interview take place
• When is the deadline for agreeing to participate in the interview

Preparation before the interview:

• This is your interview, you are being given opportunity to air your Association's view and therefore - prepare well:
• Write down 3 points you want the audience to understand
• Be positive in your approach, not defensive or negative
• You are a representative there to promote the Association's views
• With journalists, always be courteous, but cautious

During the interview:

• Be positive; don't say "I think..."
• Use lay terms, speak simply and avoid jargon and long titles
• Remain calm
• Correct mistakes made by the interviewer
• Remember your audience
• Remember your three points to put across
• If it is recorded, ask if you can repeat an answer you feel was not succinct enough
• Assume everything you say will be quoted

On radio:

• Your facial expressions cannot be seen, therefore you must sound convincing and enthusiastic
• Avoid hesitation
• Don't start sentences with "Well..."

On television:

• Do not look at the camera, respond to the interviewer
• When you have made your point do not be enticed to say any more, even if the interviewer pauses
• If seated, sit firmly upright and do not move or rock in the chair
• Avoid wearing distracting colours or jewellery

Be wary of:

• The interviewer misinterpreting your points and summarising incorrectly
• Being asked several questions at once; put across the points you have in mind
• When quoting statistics use fractions ("one out of five" or "a half" ) not percentages (20% or 50%)
• Do not start sentences with "firstly..." or "secondly...", because it makes editing for short quotes difficult
• Do not be encouraged to give your personal opinion when representing your Association
• Do not be negative about other health professions
• Beware the seemingly irrelevant question - it may be leading
• Never say "no comment"
• Talking 'off the record' to journalists, again, assume everything you say will be quoted

Additional points to consider:

• Use a doctor to comment for your association.
• If you have a media department, use it. It can save you time by arranging your interview schedule.