APPENDIX
H
TIPS
FOR MEETING THE PRESS AND
FOR
A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW
- The
key point to remember when answering media questions during an interview:
If
you wear it, operate it, eat it, promote it, or shoot it, you can generally
talk about it.
- Stay
in your lane.
Do
not get sidetracked into areas that are outside your expertise or direct knowledge.
Let the President explain national policies. You can talk about your part in
implementing these policies.
- Ask
for a few moments to check your uniform and gather your thoughts before the
interview. Mentally go over your unit's message.
- Relax.
Granted, this is easier said than done, but you do not want to appear uneasy.
One technique is to ask the reporter a few questions such as: "How long have
you been in country?" Once the interview begins, it will be easier for both
of you to keep a conversational tone.
- Tell
(do not read) the reporter your unit message in your own words. This begins
the interview on your turf. This also ensures that the message gets out.
- Look
at the interviewer. Listen to the questions. Do not react quickly. Take a few
seconds to think about your answer.
- Keep
your hands off the mike. It is the reporter's job to get good sound.
- Keep
your answers short. Reporters are looking for a 15-20 second sound bite or
quote. Encapsulate in complete thoughts or sentences what you want to say in
this timeframe. Incorporate your unit's message into your answers. Do not worry
about repeating yourself. Generally, only one of your answers will be used
in the story.
- Answer
one question at a time and do not respond to statements. Ask the reporter to
repeat the question he or she would like you to answer.
- Maintain
a professional attitude during the interview. Remain in control even when the
reporter seems aggressive or the questions seem silly. Reasoned responses will
help you stay in control.
- If
you do not know the answer, admit it. "I
DO NOT KNOW"
is
difficult for most soldiers to say, but speculating will get you in trouble!
- Use
simple language, not jargon or acronyms. Civilianize your military language.
- Never
lie to the media. If you cannot tell them something, tell them why. For example,
you cannot answer questions about future operations, specific troop strengths,
or locations because this would give information to the enemy. You should not
discuss anything that is under investigation because it might hamper the investigation.
Rules of engagement are not discussed because doing so would endanger our troops.
- After
a reasonable time, feel free to stop the interview. Be pleasant, but firm.
You are busy and need to get back to your mission.
- If
necessary, refer reporters to the public affairs officer (PAO) for more information.
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