A final example of a business situation where you answer questions is dealing with the press. If you wonder why media interviews should be covered on speaking with a group, remember that media interviews are not aimed at just one person they are also aimed at the reporter's listeners or readers.
Fifty years ago a business person was unlikely to have to deal with the media. Today however business is news. The public is interested in topic such as the environment, consumerism and the economy. Therefore dealing with the press is a communication skill many business people must consider not simply a matter to leave to the public relations office. Media interview skills include anticipating questions, planning responses, analysing your two audiences, stating points emphatically and using good non-verbal communication. The fist step in preparing a media interview is to anticipate questions. To do so first discover whatever you can from the reporter about what you will be discussing. If you are called on the phone you can ask what the interviewer will cover and whether you might call back later. If you are speaking on a talk show you might ask what areas you will be discussing. Do not expect reporters to give you a list of questions written out in advance.
Fifty years ago a business person was unlikely to have to deal with the media. Today however business is news. The public is interested in topic such as the environment, consumerism and the economy. Therefore dealing with the press is a communication skill many business people must consider not simply a matter to leave to the public relations office. Media interview skills include anticipating questions, planning responses, analysing your two audiences, stating points emphatically and using good non-verbal communication. The fist step in preparing a media interview is to anticipate questions. To do so first discover whatever you can from the reporter about what you will be discussing. If you are called on the phone you can ask what the interviewer will cover and whether you might call back later. If you are speaking on a talk show you might ask what areas you will be discussing. Do not expect reporters to give you a list of questions written out in advance.
