Becoming a Media Go-To Expert: Tips to Get Asked Back
1. Be Available:
Media opportunities often come at short notice. Make sure you're accessible and
ready to seize the moment. Answer your phone.
2. Understand the Audience: Tailor your insights to the audience you're addressing. Know what they care about and speak to their interests and concerns.
3. Engage and Inspire: Offer insights that are not just informative but also engaging. Use stories, analogies, and anecdotes to make your points memorable.
4. Mic Control:
Good mic control isn't just about speaking clearly. It's about modulating your
voice, avoiding filler words, and ensuring your message is concise and
impactful. If you're in a radio studio, sit in nice and close to the mic. If you're holding a mic at an outside broadcast, it can be noisy so keep it close and avoid mic drift.
5. Acknowledge the Elephants in the Room: Don't shy away from addressing sensitive or controversial topics. Acknowledging and thoughtfully discussing these can establish you as a credible and trustworthy expert.
6. Stay Informed: Keep on top of current affairs and trending stories. Whether it’s the latest industry news or a global event like the Olympics, be ready to share relevant insights and anecdotes.
7. Respect Producers: Remember, producers are the gatekeepers. Respect their hard work, be cooperative, and always strive to make their job easier. Building good relationships with producers will ensure they think of you first when booking guests.
The golden rule? Be sound. Your expertise is valuable, but your attitude will make you a favourite. Work hard, help out, and deliver value every time you're on air.
Ready to become a “friend of the media” or a trusted
expert in your area? Start with these steps, and you'll be on your way to making
an impression. My retained PR services are fully booked until January 2025. I have limited availability for one-off media training workshops and short campaigns. Get in touch today, eimear@eimear.ie.