Have you ever seen a competitor quoted in a magazine and thought “I should have been interviewed for that?” We are filling our marketing partner and Body Mind Life presenter, Biggest Loser Season #9 celebrity O’Neal Hampton’s schedule with media interviews. We will have him grabbing headlines with his message of wellness, drawing attendees to the expo. We currently have TV, radio and multiple print interviews scheduled, and are following up on more hot prospects.
With the interviews lined up, our next strategy is to prepare him to make the most of his media appearances. This is something you should do to prepare any event spokesperson. The easiest way to start is to develop a interview outline.
- In each interview, your spokesperson should (at minimum) communicate the who, what, when, and where: O’Neal will be launching his O’Neal Hampton Wellness Foundation at Body Mind Life Expo, March 17 and 18 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Be sure to include a website for more information (www.101expos.com).
- Slip the website address into the interview. This can be done by saying that it’s the best place to find more information (i.e. about the O’Neal Hampton Wellness Foundation), to get discount tickets, to see the event schedule, etc.
- Familiarize your spokesperson with the media outlet conducting the interview. What type of publication or program is it? Who is the target audience? This is crucial. There’s a big difference in how O’Neal might present the information to a health and fitness reporter than to one covering entertainment.
- What is the interview format? Length? Live or taped? Solo or multi-guests? Topics or questions the host will cover?
Your goal is to stack the deck so that your spokesperson can cover all pertinent details when the cameras roll, effortlessly and with no surprises.
With print interviews, you may want to check back with the reporter and confirm that he/she will be including all details. Offer websites , photos, free tickets and expert quotes to ensure you are communicating your message points and that you look professional.
