Blog
By Terrena Rathanlall
Nervous about a media interview? You’re not alone.
From TV segments to podcast interviews, the fear of saying the wrong thing can send even the most seasoned business owners into a panic. But here’s the thing: nailing a media interview isn’t about being perfect - it’s about being prepared.
Nomad Media Agency helps business owners, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders step into the spotlight with confidence and deliver interviews that build credibility, trust, and brand recognition. Whether you’re promoting your business, launching a new product, or positioning yourself as an expert, these five proven strategies will help you take control of the conversation and communicate with confidence.
1. Know your core message – clarity is key
The biggest mistake interviewees make? Rambling. When you don’t have a clear message, your responses become long-winded, and you risk losing both the audience and the journalist.
✔ Solution: Before the interview, define three key talking points you want to communicate. Think of them as your North Star—no matter where the conversation goes, you can always circle back to these points.
✔ Why It Matters: A focused, well-structured response positions you as an expert and makes it easier for audiences to remember your message.
2. Practice, but don’t memorise – sound natural, not robotic
A common mistake? Over-rehearsing. When you memorise responses word-for-word, you sound stiff and unnatural. If you forget a word, you might even panic.
✔ Solution: Instead of scripting your answers, practice conversational responses. Know your talking points inside and out but allow room for flexibility in how you deliver them.
✔ Why It Matters: Confidence comes from familiarity, not memorisation. The more natural you sound, the more authentic and engaging you’ll be.
3. Body language speaks louder than words
Your words matter, but so does how you deliver them. Poor body language—crossed arms, avoiding eye contact, or fidgeting—can make you look uncomfortable or untrustworthy, even if your words are perfect.
✔ Solution: Sit up straight, maintain eye contact, and use intentional hand gestures to emphasize key points. If it’s a virtual interview, ensure your lighting and camera angle flatter you.
✔ Why It Matters: Confident body language enhances credibility. It makes you appear more authoritative, approachable, and in control of the conversation.
4. Master the art of bridging – stay in control of the conversation
Tough or unexpected questions can throw you off track, but you don’t have to answer them directly. Skilled interviewees know how to bridge the conversation back to their key message.
✔ Solution: Use phrases like:
• “That’s an interesting point, and what’s also important to note is…”
• “While that’s one perspective, what we’ve seen is…”
• “I think the bigger issue here is…”
✔ Why It Matters: This technique helps you steer the conversation in your favor, ensuring the audience walks away remembering what you want them to.
5. Handling the unexpected – stay calm under pressure
Live interviews don’t always go as planned. A curveball question, a technical glitch, or an awkward silence can happen at any time. The key is to stay calm and composed.
✔ Solution: Take a deep breath before responding. If you need a moment to think, pause confidently instead of filling the silence with unnecessary words. If you don’t know the answer, be honest and say, “I’d be happy to follow up with more details.”
✔ Why It Matters: Your composure under pressure speaks volumes. Handling challenges with grace makes you look professional, trustworthy, and media-ready.
You have a story to tell - own it
The best interviews aren’t about being perfect; they’re about being prepared. With the right mindset and strategies, you can turn any media opportunity into a powerful moment for your brand.
Need expert media training before your next big interview? Nomad Media Agency is here to help. Let’s craft your message, refine your delivery, and make sure you own the spotlight.
Get in touch today!
#MediaTraining #PublicSpeaking #BrandVisibility #BusinessGrowth #ConfidentCommunication #NomadMedia
