Following are some general guidelines to help you get ready for and respond to a reporter's questions. When contacted by the media, immediately contact Dana Fischetti, manager of news and media services, at 910.962.7259, or call the MaC office at 910.962.3861.

Gather basic details

• Write down the reporter's name, media outlet, phone number and story deadline.
• Ask what the story will be about and how the interview will be used.
• If  TV or radio is calling, inquire about the interview format (live, taped, etc.).
• If you're the appropriate expert but aren't prepared to talk, set a later time, but respect the reporter's deadline. Even 15 minutes will help you get ready.
• If you're not the best expert, refer the reporter to someone who is, or contact MaC.
• Contact MaC and let them know about the inquiry and the actions taken.

Prepare for the interview

• Take a few minutes to write down the brief message(s) you want to convey. 
• Avoid technical jargon, use lay terms.
• Make sure your points are clear and succinct.
• Be ready to support your message with a few examples and facts.
• Keep in mind what the public needs to know, and how the topic affects people's lives
• Anticipate tough questions the reporter might ask.
• Practice delivering your message(s).

Speak with authority, clarity, energy

• Offer brief background on the subject at hand if the reporter seems to need it.
• Assume everything you say is on the record, from the time you meet or talk with the reporter until he or she leaves the room or hangs up.
• Speak with authority and energy, particularly for TV or radio interviews.
• State your position in positive terms, even if a reporter's questions turn negative or sound loaded.
• If the reporter's questions veer off track, politely steer the interview back to your message(s).
• If you're not sure the reporter understood your main points, ask him or her to repeat them.

Additional tips for when a broadcast reporter calls

• Broadcast media need prior permission to film inside buildings on campus, or to
  film anyone who would easily be identified on television. For more information, contact Dana Fischetti at 910.962.7529.