Tips for remote media interviews

Tips for Media Interviews in the Age of Social Distancing

We won’t bury the lede — the most important thing to remember is that most of us are in the same boat, trying our best to navigate this uncharted territory.

Despite the distance we’ve had to keep from one another, we’re all experiencing this together. Stay loose and make the most of the opportunity to talk to people outside the small social circles we’re all keeping.

Bravo Group’s Media Relations team has assembled the following tips to make sure you master interviewing remotely.

Check your technology early

Don’t wait till the last minute to sign on

• Check your internet connection
• Make sure you have the latest version of the conferencing platform
• Test your camera and audio connections

Wear headphones to minimize background noise

Communicate calmly

Determine your main messages

• Write out your points in advance of the interview
• Know what you are going to say before you say it
• Practice, practice, practice

If you didn’t hear the question, ask the interviewer to repeat it

• Clarity is key, and the reality of this situation is that we’re all trying our best

Create the right space

Choose a quiet location in your house

• Avoid high-ceilinged rooms with an echo
• Stay away from appliances and vents that produce an audible hum or hiss
• Politely ask your family or roommate not to disturb; if possible, give pets a toy to keep them busy

Note your surroundings

• Avoid open space behind you to avoid someone walking through your shot
• Clean up the area around you; make sure what’s on camera is something you’re comfortable sharing
• Remove all pets from the room

Make sure your face is well lit

• Sit facing, or to the side, of a window or another source of light
• Overheads can work, too, but should be a last resort
• Avoid backlighting — unless you want to look like a confidential informant

Maintain your presence

Stay engaged

• Maintain eye contact with the camera (not your screen)
• Concentrate on the conversation at hand.

Check your appearance

• Think about the dress code of your workplace; default to business casual
• Avoid stripes, patterns or bright solid colors — cameras don’t like them