4 Compelling Message Enhancers To Help You Nail Your Next Media Interview

Let’s say you booked an interview on TV or with a magazine. First of all, congratulations! My hat is off to you! 

Next comes the question: How can I nail my message in the interview?

Good news:  I’ve got you!

Here are four ways to think about how to communicate your message in media interviews and beyond. Think of them as “message enhancers.” Once you know your message – who you are, what you do, how you help people and the result you get for clients -  use these message enhancers to communicate your message to the media or even in your networking, your talks, and so forth.

1. Stories

People love stories. In fact, people remember stories more than most anything. The illustrate your point and are often emotional on some level. Here are some lead-in sentences you can use to share your stories in a TV interview, an interview with a journalist, or even in proposals, online networking, or anywhere you like.

“One of my clients recently …” then share your client success story.
“That reminds me of my client, who …” then share your client’s story.
“A client recently shared that …” then share their story.

2. Statistics

Hard facts, when put into context, provide meaning to an idea or story. Be ready with stats that are relevant to your message and to cite your sources. Here are some lead-in sentences you can use in an interview when stating statistics:

“Let me put that into context …” then share the statistic and follow it up with a story.
“In fact, a recent study from X just said that …” then share the statistic.

3. Soundbites

Soundbites are short phrases or sentences that grab attention, encapsulate your message, and help your audience to remember your message. This example from JFK quickly appeals to patriotism, is memorable, and entices the audience into action:

“My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”

Sometimes soundbites are stand-alone phrases and need no lead-in sentences. However, here are two lead-in sentences you can use to share your soundbites with others:

“An easy way to remember this is this …” then provide an analogy, metaphor, or simile.
“I always say …” then state your soundbite.

4. Images

Images are an extremely effective way to quickly communicate your message while adding depth and value to a media interview. If you have infographics, photos, or other visuals that communicate your message, share those with journalist who is writing your story. Also, consider your own headshot and personal images. Be sure they are current and on-brand because many times, a media outlet needs to use your headshot instead of sending out a photographer. 

What can you do this week to enhance your message when talking with the media?

© 2021 Meredith Liepelt, Rising Star Publicity

Since 2007, Meredith Liepelt, CEO of Rising Star Publicity, has guided hundreds of experts to become recognized authorities in the media. When clients master the strategies she teaches, they earn their own publicity on TV, podcasts, print and online, advance their thought leadership, and attract new clients without paying an expensive agency. For insights, inspiration, and a free media readiness quiz, visit www.RisingStarPublicity.com.

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