Handling media interviews — be it on radio, television or online — has become an important part of running a business or organisation. The chance of facing negativity or pushback during these interviews is higher than ever and the exposure, because of social media and our interconnectivity, can be immediate and impactful.

It’s crucial to prepare adequately and employ strategic techniques to navigate this kind of challenge. One of the best ways to ensure you are fully equipped for your big interview is preparation. Here we look at some tips on how to mitigate that negative focus.

Negative Pushback in Interviews

Being in the limelight, especially during media interviews, exposes you to a variety of opinions and questions that might be hard-hitting or confrontational. Negative pushback often comes in various forms, such as challenging questions, biased viewpoints or even direct criticism.

While it can be unnerving, it’s essential to remember that this is often a part of the media’s role in holding individuals and organisations accountable. One thing is certain, however, the way you respond to this negativity can significantly affect public perception of both you and your organisation.

Maintain Composure

One of the most important things is to maintain your composure. Losing your cool will usually derail the conversation and paint you in a poor light. Take deep breaths, pause before answering and keep your emotions in check. Again, if you are prepared, then this is a lot easier.

Leverage Facts and Figures

Always back your statements with credible facts and figures – in other words go prepared. This approach not only lends weight to your arguments but also deflects attention from the negative tone.

Be Transparent but Tactful

Transparency can be a double-edged sword. While it’s advisable to be open, you should also be tactful in your responses. Never say more than you need to and steer clear of sensitive topics that aren’t pertinent to the discussion. In other words, don’t muddy the waters even further by bringing up something off-topic that could also be contentious.

Solution-Oriented Approaches

When faced with negative questions or feedback, shift the focus to solutions rather than problems. By doing so, you may not only sideline the negative questioning but also portray yourself as proactive and responsible.

Active Listening

You can sometimes be in such a hurry to get your points across that you don’t listen properly to the questions being asked. In the face of criticism or difficult questions, your natural inclination might be to interrupt or defend yourself. Active listening to what the interviewer is saying, processing it, and then formulating a thoughtful response is a key skill that you need to practice and become proficient at.

The Role of Media Training

Media training is not just for politicians or celebrities. It’s an invaluable resource for anyone who must interact with the media, including businesses and organisations of all sizes. It equips you with the tools to handle a wide range of scenarios and formats, including negative questioning. This can include:

  1. Scenario-Based Rehearsals: This is where you are placed in mock interview situations to prepare for a range of questions, including negative ones.
  2. Instant Feedback: Professional media trainers will offer immediate feedback, helping you refine your strategy and manage it on the go.
  3. Personalised Training: The format can be tailored to your unique requirements, including addressing your weaknesses and amplifying your strengths.

Media training can help hone your performance at interviews and is a vital component of any business or organisation that regularly interacts with journalists. It will give you more confidence and allow you to plan proactively for any potential negative encounters.