And DON’Ts The DO’s Of Interviews

On Dress DO DON’TDO

On Dress DO DON’TDO

On Language DO DON’TDO Speak conversationally Use proper grammar Be relaxed Be honest Use clean language

On Language DO DON’T Use your best vocabulary Speak “street” Appear nervous Lie Cuss ***Example*** DO Speak conversationally Use proper grammar Be relaxed Be honest Use clean language

On Preparation DO DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example*** DO Craft your message Research on reporter Know topics ahead of time Talk to reporter in advance Rehearse sound bites DON’T

On Preparation DO DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example*** DO Craft your message Research on reporter Know topics ahead of time Talk to reporter in advance Rehearse sound bites DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example***

On Sound bites DO DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example*** DO Keep them under 15 seconds Speak deliberately, focused, and sharp. Repeat if necessary DON’T

On Sound bites DO DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example*** DO Keep them under 15 seconds Speak deliberately, focused, and sharp. Repeat if necessary DON’T Try to be someone you’re not. Speak with too much energy or too little Be bizarre ***Example***

On Demeanor and Appearance DO DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example*** DO Smile Comb/brush hair Put on makeup Remain calm and cool DON’T

On Demeanor and Appearance DO DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example*** DO Smile Comb/brush hair Put on makeup Remain calm and cool DON’T Use sarcastic or witty humor Appear cocky Be too casual Lose your cool ***Example***

On Facts DO DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example*** DO Use factual information only Stay on one clear message Know when to defer the interview to someone else DON’T

On Facts DO DON’T Do an interview without crafting message Agree to an interview if you aren’t expert on the subject ***Example*** DO Use factual information only Stay on one clear message Know when to defer the interview to someone else DON’T Give your opinions EVER EVER EVER say “No comment” Over step your boundaries as a public employee ***Example***

And DON’Ts The DO’s Of Interviews

City of Albuquerque Media Workshops