Tips on... Handling the media

Being interviewed on the radio or television can be a nerve-racking experience. It can be especially traumatic if it is going on air live. It is also a good opportunity to get your views across to a large number of people. Confidence comes with experience, but there is always a first time.

Look the part

If you are going to be on television, dress appropriately and look presentable. Accept make up if it's offered.

Know your stuff

You are being interviewed because you are the expert on the issue. Get your facts right.

Expect the unexpected

Prepare not only for what you think the interviewer might ask you but also for what you wouldn't want to be asked. It's nice to have advance notice of the questions you may be asked, but there may well be unpleasant surprises.

Control your emotions

Don't lose your temper. Try not to look nervous. Smiling while on the television helps to relax you and gives a better impression to the audience. Don't get personal with fellow interviewees who hold the opposite viewpoint. Concentrate on what they say and avoid responding to what they said or meant on another occasion.

Listen

Answer the question asked rather than what you wish had been asked. Avoid being distracted by the lights, cameras, and production crew.

Don't say too much

Get across one key message only. Your audience has no knowledge or experience of your specialist area. Get to the point quickly and be precise.

Avoid jargon

Don't hide behind jargon. Keep your message simple and deliver it in plain English.

Rehearse

Practise at least once before the actual interview. It may not always be all right on the night.

Kallur Suresh, specialist registrar in psychiatry of old age, Royal London Hospital


studentBMJ 2002;10:215-258 July ISSN 0966-6494