What are the best ways to prepare for media inquiries and interviews about your research?

1 Know your audience

Before you agree to any media request, find out who the intended audience is and what their level of interest and knowledge is. This will help you tailor your message and avoid jargon, acronyms, or technical details that may confuse or bore them. You should also research the media outlet and the journalist or host, and familiarize yourself with their style, tone, and perspective. This will help you anticipate the type of questions they may ask and the angle they may take.

2 Define your key points

One of the most important steps in preparing for media inquiries and interviews is to identify and articulate your main messages. These are the core ideas or takeaways that you want your audience to remember and understand. You should have no more than three key points, and they should be clear, concise, and compelling. You should also have some supporting evidence or examples to back up your points, but avoid overloading your audience with too much information or data.

3 Practice your delivery

Once you have your key points, you should practice how to deliver them effectively. You can rehearse with a colleague, a friend, or a recorder, and ask for feedback on your content, clarity, and confidence. You should also practice how to handle difficult or unexpected questions, and how to redirect the conversation back to your key points. You should also prepare for different formats and scenarios, such as live or recorded, audio or video, one-on-one or panel, and short or long.

4 Be professional and personable

When you are ready for the media inquiry or interview, you should dress appropriately, arrive on time, and check your equipment and connection if it is online. You should also be polite, respectful, and courteous to the journalist or host, and thank them for the opportunity. During the interview, you should speak clearly, slowly, and confidently, and use simple and engaging language. You should also show some enthusiasm and passion for your research, and try to connect with your audience on an emotional or personal level.

5 Follow up and follow through

After the media inquiry or interview, you should follow up with the journalist or host, and thank them again for their time and interest. You should also ask them when and where the piece will be published or broadcasted, and if they need any additional information or clarification from you. You should also follow through on any promises or commitments you made during the interview, such as sending them a link, a report, or a contact. Finally, you should monitor and evaluate the impact and feedback of your media exposure, and learn from your experience.