How to do a radio interview

Find out all you can about the interview beforehand

• area of questioning
• live or pre-recorded
• what sort of interview
• how will the material be used
• who else is being interviewed

Types of interview

• In the studio: brief head-to-head, discussion panel or phone in;
• Down the line: as above but in an unmanned studio or radio car;
• By telephone: most frequent in local radio;
• Pre-recorded on location.

Brief the Reporter

• Give your name/position, context of the story and essential facts.
• Make it clear what you are/are not qualified to talk about.

Prepare what you want to say

• Have facts at your fingertips; anticipate questions; prepare points you want to make and make them. Always have a key point in your message.
• If you have over a 20 second segment you can say lots of things about your subject including the past, present and future.
• Avoid committee speak, there are always more illustrative words to use: amenity = walk, cycle and picnic; recreation = play; access = open to all.

Aim for two or three points only

• Most radio interviews last only 3 or 4 minutes. Keep it brief. Prepare a summary to include a sound bite – a short, snappy sentence that illustrates your message clearly.

Make the most of your voice

• Speak clearly, at a reasonable speed, in the appropriate mood.

Keep answers self contained

• Sounds more authoritative and reduces chances of the meaning being manipulated by editing or being used out of context.

Avoid jargon

• Use everyday words to explain specialist concepts. Use stories and examples to illustrate your message.

Replying to questions

• Use the question as a springboard for your prepared answer/message.

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