The Do’s and Don’ts of Talking to the Media

· In Resources, Tips & Articles

By Glenda Fordham, Fordham PR

Have you ever watched a celebrity interview and cringed as the actor or filmmaker stumbled over responses, forget important production facts, scratched himself, or was distracted by a wayward strand of hair? Not being prepared for lights, cameras and probing questions can affect your career or at the very least, land you on YouTube or TMZ as an object of derision.

Here are a few basic do’s and don’ts to keep in mind for your first few media encounters.

The Don’ts

Don’t pick, scratch or chew. Nothing looks more uncomfortable (and revolting!) than watching someone pick at their face or body while being questioned on camera. And just like mum told you, take that damned chewing gum outta your mouth! And sit still! Don’t wriggle, squirm or fidget as this only emphasizes your insecurity.

Don’t dis your colleagues. There’s nothing more unprofessional than watching someone trash-talk their co-stars or crew in an effort to elevate their own star power. And remember, nothing is ever “off the record”. If you wouldn’t like somebody saying it about you, don’t say it about them.

Don’t ever say “no comment”. Simply respond with “I don’t recall” or “who told you that?” with a wry smile, but never, repeat never respond with a “no comment” as this sends a clear message that the interviewer has hit a raw nerve. So if YouTube carries naked videos of you and your co-star with a goat, a trampoline and a tub of butter, simply say “I don’t recall that incident….but I do know a little about the latest CGI technology….LOL” then switch topics quickly.

Don’t drone on and on without taking a breath. You need to speak in sound bites so extracts can be used in promo’s or edited prior to broadcast so keep it short-n-sweet. Just breathe…and that will also keep your heart-rate down and you’ll appear relaxed.

Don’t use jargon. Please don’t assume the journalist or the viewers/readers know what you’re talking about if you use insider slang or terminology. Use plain language and don’t be smug – if you speak down to people, they will resent you and ignore your future work.

The Do’s

Do dress for success! Sure, you feel more comfortable in your sweats or favourite old shirt but good personal grooming sends a clear message that you value yourself, your film and your audience.

Do pay attention to the interviewer. By listening to each question, you can answer succinctly and directly, sending a positive subliminal message – this filmmaker is intelligent and knows his/her stuff!

Do your homework & have all your facts straight. Prepare for your interview and know what you want to promote such as: where/when it’s screening, what’s it about, who’s in it, etc.

Do mention your website or Facebook contact info. As a newbie, you need to attract as many fans and supporters as possible so use social media to drive box office demand.

Do remember to say thank-you. Good manners are a valuable commodity and a simple “please” and “thank you” will certainly get you asked back.

There are many more “rules of engagement” when talking with the media so if you would like to learn from an insider’s perspective, why not join me October 25 & 27 for my Media Presentation Skills for filmmakers, a 2 night (3hrs per night) how-to on mastering interview techniques, promoting your films, engaging your audience and building your media profile. We’ll even have a professional TV interviewer on hand for some role-playing to help build your interview street cred!

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About the Author

Glenda Fordham has 30 years’ experience in North American film, television, stage and recording industries. Since the mid-90’s, Ms. Fordham has mentored several young filmmakers, helping launch a number of indie film production companies and has also been invited to judge at student film festivals and competitions. In December of 2002, she was appointed Chair of the Entertainment Business Management program at the Toronto campus of an international film & music school where she also taught several courses including Communications, Publicity & Promotions, Artist Management and Film History.

Glenda has been a frequent editorial contributor for Canada’s national daily newspapers, entertainment trade & consumer magazines, plus numerous web-based magazines & periodicals. She is also the published author of industry guidebooks and a frequent guest lecturer on effective marketing, publicity and promotions for film and television professionals at various Ontario colleges & universities. Her personal and group media training courses have empowered entertainment industry and corporate clients to communicate effectively on camera and in print.