How being a media spokesperson can boost your career

Every year I media train hundreds of spokespeople from various organisations across the private, public and third sectors.

They are usually chosen for their expertise and experience, and I help them to follow the rules of engagement when interacting with a journalist. They get to know what messages their PR team wants them to land, how to prepare for those difficult questions, while understanding the importance of soft skills such as tone of voice and body language when being interviewed.

But while a business or brand will (hopefully) benefit when one of their own gives a good media interview, there is also huge value to the individual spokesperson.

When your PR team sets up an interview, particularly with the business/trade media, it is an opportunity to boost your own personal brand within your industry.

If you prepare for a media interview effectively, you will come across as a thought-leader and an expert. You will get noticed not only by the journalist (who will hopefully want to interview you again) but also by your colleagues, peers and competitors.

The recruitment firms and headhunters will be noticing too, as will event organisers looking for people to appear on influential industry panels or to speak at conferences.

Giving media interviews may not be your day job, but do not underestimate the value of being a spokesperson when it comes to boosting your short- and long-term career prospects.